Our time in Pigeon Forge and Nashville was everything we hoped it would be—full of family fun, unforgettable memories, and plenty of adventure. Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge offered something for everyone, from thrilling attractions and beautiful mountain views to cozy spots perfect for relaxing together. Whether we were racing down snowy slopes at Pigeon Forge Snow, watching the magical fountain show at The Island, or marveling at the Christmas lights on the Dollywood Express, every moment brought us closer as a family. Nashville, with its vibrant energy and rich musical heritage, added even more excitement to our journey. From exploring iconic murals and savoring delicious Southern barbecue to discovering family-friendly gems like the two national parks we explored during our time in TN, we found something to love at every turn. Both destinations truly captured our hearts, and I can’t wait to share all the highlights of our trip!

PIGEON FORGE

Dolly Parton Stampede

Our family had the most magical time at Dolly Parton’s Stampede during the Christmas season in Pigeon Forge. From the moment we walked in, the festive decorations and twinkling lights set the perfect holiday mood. The kids were in awe of the live Nativity scene, complete with real animals, which beautifully brought the story of Christmas to life. We all loved the thrilling performances, especially the new Elegance on Ice segment—it was mesmerizing to watch the skaters glide across the arena. The appearance of Santa Claus had everyone cheering, and the holiday music made the evening feel even more special. To top it off, the four-course meal was delicious, and everyone found something they enjoyed. Sharing this experience as a family made it one of our most memorable holiday outings.

Dollywood

Our day at Dollywood was absolutely unforgettable! We rode over 30 rides, with the kids insisting on going on the Scrambler five times—it quickly became their favorite. The big moment of the day was when the twins bravely tackled the FireChaser Express. It didn’t go as smoothly as planned—they cried and screamed the entire ride—but we were so proud of them for trying something out of their comfort zone. We even got a personal look inside Dolly’s retired tour bus. So neat! We stayed for nine hours, soaking up every bit of the park’s holiday magic. The Christmas lights were breathtaking, transforming the park into a winter wonderland. We rode the train twice—once during the day to enjoy the Smoky Mountain scenery and a second time at night, when the glowing lights made everything feel even more magical. We finished our night with the epic Santa experience. The kids mailed their wishlists to Santa and visited him at his cabin where he was preparing the ‘Nice List’ and we recognized a few names (and use was actually handwritten by the Santa!). SO NEAT! It was a day full of fun, adventure, and memories we’ll be talking about for years!

The Island

Our family had such a fun time exploring The Island in Pigeon Forge! We strolled through the charming shops, where the kids found a few treasures, and we picked up some unique souvenirs. The highlight for all of us was watching the fountain show—seeing the water dance in sync with the music and lights was absolutely mesmerizing. The kids were fascinated, and we found ourselves sitting there for quite a while, just enjoying the relaxing atmosphere. It was the perfect spot to unwind together and soak in the lively energy of the area. The Island had something for everyone, making it a memorable part of our trip!

Pigeon Forge Snow

Our family had an absolute blast at Pigeon Forge Snow! The kids couldn’t get enough of tubing down the snowy slopes—it was all laughs and excitement as we raced each other down the lanes. The best part was that we didn’t have to bundle up too much since the indoor temperature was comfortable, even with all the snow around us. After tubing, we spent time in the snow play area, building snowmen and making snow angels, which was such a hit with the kids. It was such a unique experience to enjoy all the fun of winter activities without worrying about the cold. Pigeon Forge Snow was the perfect spot for some family-friendly fun and made our trip even more memorable!

Mountain Valley Winery

Our visit to Mountain Valley Winery was such a treat! I was amazed by how much I loved every single sweet wine we tried—it made choosing just two bottles to bring home nearly impossible. Each sip was a burst of flavor, and the staff was so friendly, helping us find the perfect wines to suit our tastes. The cozy atmosphere and stunning mountain views made the experience even more enjoyable. I’m already looking forward to opening those bottles and reliving the memories of this fantastic stop on our trip.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Our family’s adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was absolutely unforgettable. We started at Clingmans Dome, where the breathtaking panoramic views from the observation tower left us in awe—it felt like we were standing on top of the world. The kids enjoyed the short but steep walk to the top, especially with all the photo ops along the way. At the Sugarlands Visitor Center, we explored interactive exhibits about the park’s wildlife and learned so much, which got the kids excited for the rest of our trip. The Laurel Falls Trail was a highlight, with its beautiful, paved path leading to a stunning waterfall—perfect for a family hike. At the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, we stepped back in time at the Mountain Farm Museum, where the kids loved seeing the old cabins and farm animals. We also took on the Juney Whank Trail, a peaceful hike with a charming waterfall as our reward at the end. Each stop brought something unique, from incredible views to educational moments, making our time in the Smokies truly special and something we’ll always treasure.

The Polar Express

Riding the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad’s Polar Express was such a magical experience for our family! We switched up our typical Polar Express spot in Oklahoma City for the gorgeous ride through the Smokies. From the moment we boarded the festively decorated train, it felt like stepping into the pages of the beloved book. The kids were thrilled as we sipped hot cocoa, listened to the story of The Polar Express, and sang along to Christmas carols. Seeing their excitement when Santa came through the train to greet each child and hand out silver bells was truly priceless. The joy and holiday spirit aboard the Polar Express made it a memory we’ll cherish forever!

Where we stayed

Our stay at Pigeon Forge RV Resort was such a wonderful experience for the whole family! The kids had a blast making new friends and spending hours playing together while we relaxed next to the fire and by the beautiful creek that ran alongside the campground. They even tried their hand at fishing, although no fish were caught, they still had fun. It was the perfect blend of fun, nature, and community, making it a stop we’ll always remember fondly. Plus just miles from all our activities.

NASHVILLE

Nashville, known as the "Music City," is a vibrant destination full of energy, creativity, and rich history. From its legendary music scene and iconic landmarks to family-friendly attractions and incredible Southern cuisine, this city truly has something for everyone. Whether you're strolling down Broadway to catch live performances, exploring the historic Grand Ole Opry, or diving into hands-on fun at places like the Tennessee State Museum, every corner of Nashville tells a story.

We were thrilled to catch up with some familiar faces during our time in Nashville! The Bosworths, who now live just outside the city, welcomed us with open arms, and it was so fun to watch the kids play and run around together. They used to live just streets away from us in Argyle but relocated six months ago. Crazy enough, just a few days after our visit, they’re heading back to the Argyle area, so we’ll get even more Bosworth time once we’re back in our old stomping grounds!

Visiting Uncle David in Nashville was such a special part of our trip. It was the first time he got to meet the twins and only the second time he’s seen Hawkins, and watching him interact with the kids was heartwarming. Uncle David has always been so supportive of our family, and it was clear how much he already loved and cared for all of us. Seeing him bond with the kids and hearing his encouragement for our journey made the visit even more meaningful. It’s moments like these that remind us how important family is, no matter the distance.

It’s a place where culture and entertainment collide, making it the perfect stop on our family adventure!

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum was a must-do on our trip, and while we all enjoyed learning about the history of country music, Drew absolutely loved it the most. He soaked in every detail about the legendary artists, the evolution of the genre, and the iconic memorabilia on display. The kids had fun exploring some of the interactive exhibits, but it was Drew who really got lost in the stories and artifacts, especially in the sections showcasing the pioneers of country music. It was a fascinating experience.

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Our visit to Cheekwood Estate & Gardens during the holidays was absolutely magical. The Holiday Lights were breathtaking, with thousands of twinkling lights illuminating the gardens and creating a festive wonderland. We strolled through the beautifully decorated paths, taking in the holiday displays and enjoying the crisp evening air. The Mansion tour was equally enchanting, with each room adorned in elegant, holiday-themed decor that gave us a glimpse into the history and charm of this incredible estate. It was the perfect way to celebrate the season as a family!

The Parthenon & Centennial Park

Our visit to The Parthenon and Centennial Park was such a relaxing and fun experience. We decided to skip the inside museum, but even from the outside, the grandeur of this full-scale replica was awe-inspiring. The towering columns, intricate details, and massive scale made us feel like we had stepped back in time to ancient Greece. While we marveled at the architecture and snapped plenty of photos, the kids had a blast playing at the nearby playground, burning off energy and enjoying the open spaces. The combination of history, beauty, and family fun made it a perfect stop during our Nashville adventure.

Tennessee State Museum

Our visit to the Tennessee State Museum was an educational and enjoyable experience for the whole family. Oh, its FREE! The exhibits brought the state's rich history to life, from its early Native American cultures to its role in the Civil War and beyond. It was fascinating to see artifacts that connected Tennessee’s past to the present, and we all left feeling like we had a deeper appreciation for the state’s history and culture. It was a great mix of education and family time! After the museum, we walked over to the Farmers Market that has a covered area full of small restaurants, offering a wide variety of delicious items. We all love bubble tea and were excited to try new flavors with double boba!

State Capitol

Taking a tour of the Tennessee State Capitol was such a fascinating and educational experience for our family. Walking through the historic halls, we learned that the Capitol, completed in 1859, is one of the oldest working statehouses in the nation and was designed by architect William Strickland, who is actually buried in the building! The guide shared interesting facts about Tennessee's rich history, like how it was the first state to rejoin the Union after the Civil War and played a pivotal role in the passage of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. We also discovered that the Capitol has seen key pieces of legislation debated and passed, including laws that shaped the Civil Rights Movement. Learning about these moments while standing in such a historic space gave us a deeper appreciation for Tennessee’s role in shaping American history. It was an experience that left us all inspired and informed! OH, It is also FREE!

Mammoth Cave National Park

Even though Mammoth Cave National Park is in Kentucky, it is actually closer in our route when we stayed in Nashville. Our visit to Mammoth Cave National Park was absolutely unforgettable and quickly became a family favorite. We decided to do the Historic Tour, and the kids couldn’t stop talking about how it was their favorite cave tour we’ve done—beating out the other four we’ve explored in the past! Walking through the world’s longest cave system, which stretches over 400 miles, was awe-inspiring. We learned fascinating facts, like how the cave was used during the War of 1812 to mine saltpeter for gunpowder and how its massive chambers and winding tunnels have been explored for over 200 years. The guide's stories of early explorers and the rich history of the cave brought it all to life. The kids loved squeezing through Fat Man’s Misery and standing in awe under Mammoth Dome. Since it was pouring rain, we didn’t get to do any additional hikes but had hoped to do the Green River Bluffs Trail & Cedar Sink Trail. It was an adventure full of history, discovery, and unforgettable memories!

Grand Ole Opry

On our way back to the RV, we made a quick stop at the Grand Ole Opry, and I’m so glad we did! The giant guitars at the entrance were such a fun photo spot, and the kids loved posing with them. We learned a neat fact too—the Opry is the longest-running radio broadcast in history, dating back to 1925. Even though we didn’t go inside this time, just being there and soaking up the history of such an iconic place was a great way to end the day.

12 South

On our last afternoon in TN, we headed over to 12 South to explore the iconic street, known for its vibrant murals, boutique shops, and relaxed vibe. We took our time strolling along, snapping photos at the "I Believe in Nashville" mural, and browsing through the unique stores. It was such a fun and laid-back way to soak in the charm of one of Nashville’s most beloved neighborhoods.

51st Deli West End

After a magical evening strolling through the Cheekwood Holiday Lights, we couldn’t resist stopping by 51st Deli on West End. Their Philly sandwich hit the spot and was the perfect way to warm up after the festive outdoor adventure. It was the ideal mix of holiday cheer and delicious comfort food!

Martins BBQ

We couldn’t visit Nashville without stopping at Martin’s BBQ, and it did not disappoint! The smell of smoky goodness hit us as soon as we walked in, and the food was just as amazing as we’d heard. We tried the whole hog barbecue, which was melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and their sides, like the mac and cheese and cornbread, were the perfect complements. The casual, friendly atmosphere made it a great spot for the whole family to relax and enjoy an authentic Southern barbecue feast. It’s safe to say we’ll be dreaming about this meal for a while!

Where we stay

Two Rivers Campground

Our stay at Two Rivers Campground in Nashville was so convenient and comfortable! The campground’s location made it easy to explore all the city’s attractions, and the friendly staff helped us plan our days. The kids loved the pool and outdoor space, and we appreciated the clean facilities and quiet atmosphere after busy days in town.

I'm so proud of the twins for their improvement in penmanship and for rocking their spelling test this week! They're making such great progress!

In Closing

Our time in Pigeon Forge, Nashville, Mammoth Cave National Park (KY), and Great Smoky Mountains National Park (TN/NC) has been an unforgettable way to close out our fall loop of the U.S. From the breathtaking mountain views and family adventures in the Smokies to exploring the vibrant culture of Nashville and the awe-inspiring depths of Mammoth Cave, every stop has been filled with memories we’ll treasure. As we head "home" for the holidays to spend time with family and friends, we’re already looking ahead to our next adventure. In January, we’ll kick off our next loop in New Orleans, ready for more exploration and new experiences!

Oh, Tennessee