comedy barn show in pigeon forge

A Complete Guide to the Best Shows in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

Seeing one of the area’s great shows is the perfect way to spend a couple of hours during your vacation! Like many attractions in the Smokies, these shows are family-friendly, so everyone in your group can enjoy the world-class entertainment. To help you make the most of your getaway, we have put together a guide to all of the best shows in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

1. Impossibilities: Magic, Mindreading, and Mayhem

gatlinburg space needleThe Gatlinburg Space Needle isn’t just the area’s most famous landmark – it’s also home to the Iris Theater! Erik Dobell, Master Magician and Mentalist, hosts the Impossibilities show, a one-of-a-kind performance unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Mixing comedy, magic, and mind-reading, this show will have you scratching your head as you try to figure out how he executed those mind-boggling tricks. 

2. The Grand Majestic Theater

Shows at The Grand Majestic Theater never fail to entertain and amaze, from Terry Evanswood’s magic show to the Soul of Motown. They also put on a special Christmas show in November and December. If you want to see more than one of their shows, you can save a little money by purchasing combo tickets! 

3. Dolly Parton’s Stampede

dolly parton's stampede best shows in gatlinburg and pigeon forgeDolly Parton’s Stampede in Pigeon Forge is an iconic dinner show experience. Enjoy a 4-course feast while watching fantastic horse riders, musical performances, and competitive acts that will have you on the edge of your seat! You can also take a walk through the horse stable before the show for an up-close look at the majestic animals that are the stars of the show.  

4. Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery 

At Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery, you get to put your detective hat on and discover the secrets and clues behind the mayhem! Audience participation is encouraged, and they have shows appropriate for the entire family, as well as a couple of “PG-13” options. 

5. Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud

hatfield and mccoy dinner feudOne of the best shows in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud. City and country folk alike will have the best time at this show! Combining knee-slapping comedy, hijinks, and an all-you-can-eat Southern spread, this show will be the highlight of your trip. 

6. Comedy Barn 

Another hilarious show you won’t want to miss is located at the Comedy Barn. For over 25 years, this family-friendly combination of clean comedy, live music, and talented performers has put this place at the top of must-see Smoky Mountain shows.  

7. Country Tonite

country tonite sign If you enjoy country music, then you’ll love Country Tonite, but even if you don’t consider yourself a country music fan, you won’t want to skip this incredible fast-paced show in Pigeon Forge. One of the only shows with youth performers, the cast performs Gospel, patriotic, and country classics and hits that will make you want to return again and again. 

8. Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud 

The only supper show in the Smokies, Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud is an outdoor show experience open year-round with plenty of jaw-dropping stunts, audience participation, and live-action competition. After the show, you’re highly encouraged to meet the strong lumberjacks and lumberjill and take photos. Kids can even try their hand at lumberjack skills during the show’s intermission!

When you stay at Black Bear Inn & Suites, you will be near all the best shows in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. With a complimentary hot breakfast each morning, an enclosed heated pool, and balconies with spectacular views, our hotel has everything you need for an incredible vacation. To start planning your getaway, browse our selection of Gatlinburg hotel rooms!