Getting Around Pigeon Forge on Vacation

Pigeon Forge is a fun city for vacationers, but do you know the best methods for getting around Pigeon Forge? Our guide will help you maximize your getaway, so you can focus on making fun memories with those who matter most. Whether you're hitting up top attractions or finding your way to your cabin rental, you'll know if you need a car to get around or if other options are available.

Exploring How to Travel in Pigeon Forge

There are several ways to travel in Pigeon Forge, and there are some surprising options, depending on your overall plans. However, the success of your Pigeon Forge vacation depends on locking down the details like your itinerary, lodging location, and personal preferences. That's why we've broken down the pros and cons of the most common travel options below.

Getting Around with a Car

Without question, it's convenient to have a car available while finding things to do in Pigeon Forge. With that in mind, do you need a car while on vacation in the Pigeon Forge area? Consider these factors before deciding:

Pros of a Car

• Freedom to explore as you see fit.
• Convenient access to other cities and the surrounding Smoky Mountains.
• Cabin stays are more accessible with a vehicle.
• Vehicles accommodate families and luggage more easily.

Cons of a Car

• Peak tourist seasons equal heavy traffic congestion.
• Free parking at top attractions is limited.
• Unnecessary if not leaving the heart of Pigeon Forge.

If you're staying in a cabin or planning to explore the Smokies, you'll want a car included in your travel plans. This is especially true if you're flying since the closest airports are quite the distance from Pigeon Forge.

Traffic Tip: Avoid heavy traffic by planning early morning or evening outings. Also, side roads like Teaster Lane may help you bypass some congestion.

The Pigeon Forge Trolley System

We'd be remiss to keep the Pigeon Forge Trolley System out of our list of Pigeon Forge vacation tips. The Trolley is cheap and represents an easy way to get around town without driving or walking.

How it Works

• Five routes run through Pigeon Forge
• Hop-on, hop-off access
• Stops at hotels, shopping centers, and major attractions, like Dollywood, the Island, and Patriot Park.

Before you decide if the trolley system is the right choice for you and your guests, consider these factors:

Pros of the Trolley

• Affordable travel method
• Convenient access to top attractions
• No parking or traffic stress

Cons of the Trolley

• Slower than driving
• Multiple stops
• Limited service during late nights
• Doesn't go into the mountains.

If you're not in a hurry and plan to stay in the city's center, the trolley system is an excellent choice for getting around and having fun. However, if you're not staying at hotel or desire to go into the Smoky Mountains, you don't want to rely on this option as your sole means of transportation.

Trolley Tip: Download the Pigeon Forge Mass Transit app to stay on top of real-time routes and schedules.

Rideshare Services (Uber/Lyft)

The good news is that services like Uber and Lyft operate in Pigeon Forge and the surrounding Smokies. However, availability is often limited during peak hours, making planning necessary. Below are the pros and cons of rideshare services:

Pros of Uber/Lyft

• Parking and traffic aren't your concern.
• A quick way to reach restaurants or attractions.
• Convenient for those on or near the Parkway.

Cons of Uber/Lyft

• Long wait times during busy seasons.
• Multiple rides become expensive.
• Not convenient for exploring the Smoky Mountains

The bottom line is that rideshare services are perfect for those who only need occasional rides to and from Parkway attractions or other nearby favorites. If you plan to explore, you'll want to pursue a different option.

Rideshare Tip: Peak hours are more expensive. Book your ride in advance to reduce costs.

Walking and Biking in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge isn't considered a walkable city by traditional standards. However, guests on the Parkway can easily walk or bike to shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Walking Pros & Cons

• Excellent for short distances
• No parking or traffic stress
• Not practical for long distances

Biking Pros & Cons

• Scenic rides outside of town.
• Explore greenways and trails.
• Limited bike lanes and high traffic make in-town biking challenging.

Walking and biking are an excellent option for those planning minimal travel/exploration while on vacation in Pigeon Forge. You'll want to pursue other options if your plans are more complex.

Walking Tip: Use sidewalks and pedestrian crosswalks to stay safe while exploring the Parkway.

Is a Car Necessary in Pigeon Forge?

Now that you know your options, it's time to answer whether you need a car in Pigeon Forge. You need a vehicle if:

• You want to visit the Smoky Mountains
• You want to take day trips.
• You're staying in a cabin or outside of town.
• You want maximum flexibility without relying on other transportation solutions.

A car while on vacation in Pigeon Forge isn't necessary if:

• You're staying on or near the Parkway.
• You're comfortable with rideshare services.
• You prefer budget-friendly travel options.

Reserve Your Pigeon Forge Cabin Rental Today

While there are multiple rental options in Pigeon Forge, nothing creates a sense of authenticity more than staying in a cabin rental. Our Pigeon Forge cabin rentals offer excellent locations, including near the Parkway and near Dollywood, letting you stay close to the Smokies action.

When not playing in the city, our game room cabins let everyone in your group keep their entertainment levels high. Alternatively, you can focus on pure relaxation in our cabins with a hot tub, so you're ready for another adventure. No matter what, you'll find getting around in Pigeon Forge is easy when you stay with us. We can't wait to see you!