The now thriving resort city of Pigeon Forge had humble beginnings. Its origin (along with the entire Smoky Mountain region) date back to the late 1920's. It was at this time that the federal government moved to establish a new national park in the region that run through East Tennessee and North Carolina. This area was eventually christened the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This new national park quickly grew in fame for its amazing biological diversity and above all for its stunning natural vistas. The fall foliage of the area grew to become particularly famous.

Before long the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was numbered amongst the most visited parks in all of the United States and greater North America. As this fame grew, the nearby town of Pigeon Forge grew alongside. What began as a humble farming village and lumber industry settlement would grow to become a thriving, world-class resort city. No doubt those early locals would have had no idea what was in store for quaint, little, Pigeon Forge.

It wasn't until the late 18th century that European settlers from the Carolinas followed the Pigeon River (pigeons were in abundance in the area) into the geographic area that became Pigeon Forge. It was after pioneer Isaac Love built an iron forge here in and around 1820 that the area grew to become known as Pigeon Forge. Another historic monument from that time, The Old Mill, remains open to the public and is now a treasured National Historic Site.

After 1930, when the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was first established, this region of eastern Tennessee has been subject to many changes. Before long attractions began to open up in places like Pigeon Forge in order to attract the tourist dollars of those who had come to vacation in the Smoky Mountains. Lodging facilities began to spring up as well- seeking to accommodate the growing population of tourists visiting Pigeon Forge and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park each and every year.

Pigeon Forge cabin rentals are extremely popular in terms of accommodation preference in the Smoky Mountains. But the cabins available in modern-day Pigeon Forge are a far-cry from the original "shacks" that were dotted throughout the Great Smoky Mountains National Park area. Modern Pigeon Forge cabins are luxurious, fully-equipped mountain homes that offer every comfort imaginable. No matter what the size of a particular vacation party, there are numerous rentals to choose from. Smoky Mountain vacationers can select from one bedroom cabins, two bedroom cabins, three bedroom cabins, four to five cabins and lodge-like six to twelve bedroom cabins.

One of Pigeon Forge's top highlights is Dollywood- a world-class theme park named after Dolly Parton, perhaps Pigeon Forge's most famous citizen. Dollywood offers a fun-filled water-park, numerous thrill rides for the kids, and plenty of southern charm that you won't find at other theme parks around the country.

Another major draw to Pigeon Forge is the thriving theater district. In Pigeon Forge there are more theatres and special entertainment shows than you might believe possible in one city! Among the many highlights are: the Terry Evanswood's Grand Illusions Show, the family friendly Black Bear Jamboree, the Comedy Barn, and musical shows like the Triumphant Quartet Show, the Louise Mandrell Theatre, the Smoky Mountain Jubilee, and the Country Tonite Theatre.

The Smoky Mountains are not just famous for their spectacular mountain views. One of the focal points of Smoky Mountain culture is cuisine. As can be expected, Pigeon Forge has the best of Tennessee BBQ style restaurants as well as just about every other kind of cuisine imaginable. Some of the more popular Pigeon Forge eateries include: the Old Mill Restaurant, the Ponderosa Steakhouse, The Hungry Bear Bistro at Chilhowee Bluff, the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, and the Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is definitely no longer the sleepy little farming village it once was. Today it is a vibrant, year-round resort city paradise that, along with its sister cities, Gatlinburg and Sevierville, offers the best in area entertainment, cuisine and Smoky Mountain lodging. Pigeon Forge is conveniently located directly adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Parks. Come make a vacation getaway to Pigeon Forge and the spectacular beauty of the Smoky Mountains.