For kids, summer break is just that: a break. It’s what they look forward to all year, getting out of school for long days of swimming, running, playing, and sleeping in. But for parents, a fun summer for the kids comes with some work. Besides actually going to work, you’re probably working to find a lot of ways to keep the kids entertained.
When taking them to the community pool, camping in the backyard, and having Disney movie nights have run their course, why not plan a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains for some new family fun this summer? With neighboring mountain towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge full of family-friendly attractions, restaurants to feed even the pickiest of eaters, and stores loaded with toys, games, and more, it truly is the place to please everyone.
And on top of the fun found in town, the Great Smoky Mountains offer countless opportunities for outdoor fun, getting the kids of the couch and out into the fresh air. While they’re among the trees, they can bike, go on a hike, have a fun family picnic, or take an adventure via horseback.
Easy Summer Vacations
If you’re thinking that planning a summer vacation just sounds like more work, think again. We make it easy at Cabins For You, giving you tons of great family cabins to choose from. You can book online or give us a call (800.684.7865) for a quick and easy reservation. You can keep it simple with a cabin in the mountains, or you can add on fun extras like the Java Time basket (loaded with gourmet coffee, cookies, and more) or the Spirit of the Smokies (with lots of fun local goodies). Or you can treat yourself to an in-cabin massage while the kids play! And don’t forget to check out our blog before you come for some great ideas and tips to make your summer vacation even easier.
We’ll get you started with 20 great family activities to make your family vacation the most fun it can be, whether you’re in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg.
- Be blown away by the magic of Darren Romeo at Magic Beyond Belief.
- Laugh out loud at the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show in downtown Pigeon Forge.
- Take a hike (on the 800+ miles of trails) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are easy, flat trails and steep, challenging trails – something for any skill level or age!
- Spend the afternoon exploring underseas at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
- Take a drive through Cades Cove. You’ll be amazed at the diversity of wildlife (look for bears!) and the beautifully blooming trees and wildflowers.
- Choose a cabin with an awesome rec room that has plenty of games for days you want to stay in the cabin.
- Zip through the trees at Smoky Mountain Ziplines to get your blood pumping!
- Try a footlong Ogle Dog and play arcade games at Fannie Farkle’s in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg.
- Go on a guided fishing trip (great for father-son days out) with Smoky Mountain Guides.
- If you’re the parent of a new babe, hit one of the paved trails – stroller in tow – like Laurel Falls or Clingmans Dome.
- Get your Halloween on with constant frights at Ripley’s Haunted Adventure that’s open year-round.
- Step back in time (and touch an iceberg!) at the Titanic Museum Attraction where you’ll find the perfect blend of history and entertainment.
- Float down the Little Pigeon River or take a whitewater rafting trip if you’re more adventurous.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth and take a break from the summer heat at Mad Dog’s Creamery & Donuts, one of the newest sweet spots featuring 2 favorite treats.
- Blend education and fun at Pigeon Forge’s WonderWorks, a hands-on attraction devoted to science, space, and more.
- Cool off with some indoor ice skating at area favorite Ober Gatlinburg. Here you can also ride the alpine slide, let the kids play on the playground, or play some arcade games before trying authentic German foods.
- Challenge older kids to a race around the go kart track. In downtown Pigeon Forge, you’ll have your pick.
- Laugh, be amazed, and enjoy some unique fun at one of the area’s newest shows, Amazing Animals – Exotic Animal & Pet Show. Kids of all ages will love these awesome trained animals!
- Make your own scenic scavenger hunt and explore the city (or check back on our blog for a family-friendly scavenger hunt).
- If movie night is a favorite summer activity, book one of our cabins that boasts a private home theater. You can pop some popcorn, bring some candy and drinks, and spend some time lounging around in front of a huge screen.