The town of Pigeon Forge is often mistaken for Gatlinburg. Getting off the interstate, one thinks he has arrived. But, no! One must drive nearly 15 miles before even reaching the beginning of Pigeon Forge. Welcomed by a grand sign that depicts a blacksmith working at his forge, the stoplights start at light 0 and work its way to stoplight 10. Don't look for stoplight 9... it just doesn't exist!

Pigeon Forge used to be known as the gateway to Gatlinburg, but not anymore. I can remember when my family visited Pigeon Forge the first time. I was 16 and I thought, "How in the world am I going to have any fun here?" But alas, Gatlinburg had the hot guys and the fun things to do! I moved here in 2000, and the town has developed into a fantastic getaway for people of all ages. It offers as much or more than Gatlinburg ever could. (Let your teenage daughters know, the hot guys have arrived!)

Home of the famous Dollywood, Dixie Stampede and Dolly's Splash Country, more and more people tour this fast developing tourist trap. There are more mini-golf courses, go-cart tracks, restaurants and hotels than you could ever imagine. There are also some places that are uniquely Pigeon Forge such as the Old Mill and the Incredible Christmas Place.

Pigeon Forge sits in a sweet, little valley with gorgeous, majestic mountains surrounding it. My favorite part of Pigeon Forge is driving down the Parkway and catching that breathtaking view of the mountains rising above the town, heralding the current season. In the winter, the peaks are dusted with snow; in the fall, the leaves are colored gold, rust, and burnt orange. In the summer, the trees are a happy green, and the blooming of spring opens a blossom in your own soul!

Beyond the typical tourist attractions such as shops boasting local tees, the mini-golf courses, the go-cart tracks and arcades, there are many things to do in this large town with a small-town attitude. My favorite activities are Dollywood, Dixie Stampede, and Dolly's Splash Country.

I love the dinner shows such as Fiddler's Feast, Black Bear Jamboree and Hoot 'N Holler. Let's not forget the other shows available either. From country, to gospel, to comedy, to oldies...if you ask for it, it is covered. Country Tonite, The Smith Family Theatre, The Comedy Barn and the Memories Theatre are some of the best. Wonderworks, the Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride and Flyaway Indoor Skydiving are among the top-rated, family-friendly attractions.

Shopping is not in short supply here, either. With the Red Roof Mall, the Belz Mall, and the Shops of Pigeon Forge (formerly Tanger Outlet), it is easy to run out of room in your car. I love the variety of locally-owned and chain restaurants.  

If you have a soul craving some outdoor fun, then hiking, biking, golfing, whitewater rafting and horseback riding are available. Patriot Park offers a great track to walk around if you need some fresh air but aren't feeling too adventurous. Located at stoplight seven on Old Mill Avenue, there is a quaint little gazebo and the Little Pigeon River runs right by the Park so you can picnic and feed the ducks at the same time.

I love the backroads and many of the repeat visitors do, as well. Taking a venture down into the back country of Pigeon Forge will lend your eyes some lovely sites. Tree-lined roads with mountains rising to either side, original barns and cabins still standing, beautiful homes, and some not-so-beautiful homes. One might even catch a glimpse of one of the locals sitting on his front porch whittling or smoking a pipe. Learning the backroads can also help when your travels take you here in the busy season!

Don't forget to take the time to visit with the locals and tap their knowledge of the area. Many live in Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, or Gatlinburg and know the area well. They know the best attractions, the worst attractions, the highest priced, the lowest priced, and what is the best value for your money. Most of them don't say "Ya'll come back now, ya hear?" but they do welcome you back with a friendly, warm smile and grand Southern hospitality. This town is close to my heart and I know it will win a place in your heart, as well!

This tidbit of real travel advice was contributed by Pigeon Forge native Mary Syreze Smith.