Pigeon Forge started as an iron-mining town. It received its name from the mine's proximity to the Little Pigeon River, which gained its name from the giant flocks of passenger pigeons that lived in the area. In the past, Native Americans used the area as a hunting ground, and it wasn't until the late 18th century that settlers erected permanent structures. When the Great Smoky Mountain National Park opened in 1934, the state of Tennessee decided the area needed an entertainment district. Contemporary Pigeon Forge is a result of that vision. Today, the town is a popular vacation spot and tourist destination for people around the Southeast and Midwest.
Whether you're headed to Pigeon Forge on your own, with family, or with friends, you need to find the right hotel to enjoy everything Pigeon Forge has to offer.
When to Visit Pigeon Forge, TN
What time of year to visit Pigeon Forge is a common question. However, this is entirely dependent on your idea of a good time. In the summer between June and August, the weather in Pigeon Forge reaches an average high of about 85 degrees with a low in the evenings around 61 degrees. The hot daytime weather makes it the ideal time to hit up the water park within Dollywood, go whitewater rafting down the Little Pigeon River, or stroll through the shops and restaurants around Pigeon Forge. However, hotels can get packed during this part of the year, meaning higher prices and less supply. This makes early bookings essential to get the hotel and the room of your choice.
In the fall, the area around Pigeon Forge transforms into a shockingly beautiful place. The trees turn to shades of gold, orange, red, and yellow, making leaf peeping and hiking two of the best activities. In the higher elevations of the Smoky Mountains, the trees start to change colors in late September and early October, making a visit Clingmans Dome — the highest point in the Smokies — a must. In mid-October through November, the lower elevations change hues, offering a picturesque view from within the city limits. A drive or a hike is the perfect way to soak in this scenery. The temperatures range from the low 80s in September to the low 30s at night in November. Although hotels aren't as congested as during the summer, it's still a sound idea to choose a hotel weeks before taking your trip.
For the avid hiker, spring is the best time to visit. During this time, the wilderness starts to begin its rebirth, resulting in a blanket of wildflowers as well as wildlife viewings. The spring is also festival season in Pigeon Forge, with events such as the Mountain Man Memorial March, the Smoky Mountain Wine Fest, the Earth Day Festival, and the Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament. Even with these exciting events, this is non-peak season for Pigeon Forge, meaning you can definitely score a deal during the season.
In the winter, many people come to the area for the scenic landscapes or winter sports. Ober Gatlinburg is the premier spot for skiing or snowboarding. It provides excellent slopes for beginners to intermediates to experts. If you just want to hang out while your friends and family hit the hills, there are several hotels to fit your needs. Demand during this time is about average, meaning you can find a hotel at a good price if you look early.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Pigeon Forge, TN:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs displaying average rate patterns by star rating class in Pigeon Forge, TN. Analyze these charts to evaluate the best months to book in Pigeon Forge for any future trips.
Luxury Hotel Options in Pigeon Forge, TN
If you're looking for opulent accommodation for your visit to Pigeon Forge, the town offers several luxurious and unique options. At The Lodges at the Great Smoky Mountains, you'll have your choice of three layouts, including a one-bedroom floor plan; a three-bedroom, one-bathroom layout; or a full villa. Each layout comes with standard in-room features such as a coffeemaker, a DVD player, a romantic fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, a washer and dryer combo, cable television, and complimentary wireless internet. Guests also get free entry to the Pigeon Forge Community Center, which has three basketball courts, a six-lane pool, two racquetball courts, an aerobics room, and a fitness center. You'll also be within close proximity to Dollywood, the Island, ZORB Smoky Mountains, and the Memories Theatre.
If you're looking for something on the same level as The Lodges, the Wyndham Vacation Resorts Great Smokies Lodge is a viable alternative. Here, you'll find yourself right near popular points of interest such as the Sevierville Golf Club, the NASCAR Speedpark, the Magic Beyond Belief theater, and the Tennessee Museum of Aviation. On-site, guests can enjoy stupendous amenities such as an indoor and outdoor water park, exercise equipment, a game room, miniature golf, two restaurants, and the Adventure Forest Indoor Park. In each room, the Wyndham provides full kitchens with a microwave and a refrigerator, complimentary wireless internet, a furnished balcony or patio, a coffeemaker, and a television with cable programming.
Budget Hotel Options in Pigeon Forge, TN
3 Star Average Prices: $79.73
One of the best aspects of the accommodation in Pigeon Forge is that it caters to every individual's budget. That's why there is an array of low-cost hotel options for an affordable getaway. One of these options is the Econo Lodge. It is only a short drive away from some of Pigeon Forge's most popular attractions such as the Smoky Mountain Car Museum, Professor Hacker's Lost Treasure Golf, Adventure Golf, the Pigeon Forge Factory Outlet Mall, and Blake Jones Racing Center. You'll also enjoy stellar amenities such as free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, an outdoor pool, and an in-room refrigerator, microwave, and television.
Another fantastic budget hotel in the area is the Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Pigeon Forge. Only a half-mile from downtown Pigeon Forge, the Microtel Suites is just a jaunt away from Music Road, Wonder Works, the Hard Rock Cafe, the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Before heading out to explore Pigeon Forge, you can enjoy a complimentary breakfast, check the latest news on the complimentary Wi-Fi, or go for a swim in the outdoor pool. Rooms are pet-friendly and come in either a one-queen bed suite or a two-queen bed suite. Other amenities include laundry service, car rental, kitchen facilities, a television with cable programming, and a self-controlled heating and cooling system.
