Did you know today is World Photography Day? Every August 19th, photo lovers around the globe share their favorite shots to help inspire a better world through the power of photography. Bringing millions of people together from a variety of backgrounds, World Photography Day is a fun way to celebrate your love of photography.
If you're looking for a wonderful place to take photos, there's nothing like a vacation in the beautiful Smoky Mountains. From hiking along scenic paths to fun days with the family at Dollywood, the region around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee is ready to welcome you for an adventure you won't soon forget. Our comfortable hotel in Pigeon Forge puts you close to the best attractions that the Smoky Mountains have to offer.
And don't forget your camera! The photo memories in the Smoky Mountains are absolutely breathtaking whether you want a sunset photo from a scenic highway or a family portrait at a popular theme park. To make sure you bring home the perfect photos, we put together a list of the top 10 places for photo shoots in the Great Smoky Mountains.
This list will come in handy just in time for World Photography Day. Visit any or all of these spots near our Pigeon Forge hotel to capture photographic memories that will last your lifetime.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Driving time from our hotel: 25 minutes
Explore more than 800 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding in this breathtaking wilderness that attracts visitors from all over the world. With incredible nature and wildlife around every bend, the scenery is some of the best in the country. Don't leave Pigeon Forge without visiting Smoky Mountain National Park. Once you see it for yourself, you are guaranteed to come home with a whole album of stunning photos.
Newfound Gap
Driving time from our hotel: 45 minutes
Take a hike over a mountain pass that cuts right through the center of Great Smoky Mountain National Park. You can snap souvenir photos at the Rockefeller Memorial that was built in 1940. It marks the spot where President Franklin D. Roosevelt officially dedicated the park when it opened to the public.
Dollywood
Driving time from our hotel: Less than 10 minutes
Looking for the ultimate destination for family fun in Tennessee? Welcome to Dollywood! You can capture memories of your summer adventures on film away as your kids enjoy thrilling amusement rides and live entertainment. During the summer months, bring your bathing suits so you can get wet at the water slides and pools at Splash Country.
Grotto Falls
Driving time from our hotel: 40 minutes
Have you ever taken a photo from behind a waterfall? It's possible in the Smoky Mountains! Take a photo with this spectacular effect when you go for a hike along the Trillium Gap trail. You can walk right under Grotto Falls for a nature thrill that makes the perfect photo op.
The Old Mill
Driving time from our hotel: 10 minutes
You'll find shopping, dining, and family fun when you visit The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge. Fun fact: The Old Mill is the oldest surviving structure in all of Pigeon Forge. Take a few photos of the one-of-a-kind gifts at The Old Mill Pigeon River Pottery, then savor mouthwatering Southern food for the perfect day out with the family.
Gatlinburg Space Needle
Driving time from our hotel: 25 minutes
It's easy to find the best view in town. Ride to the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle! It offers sweeping 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains like you've never seen them before. Go at night to see the sparkling city lights of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. It's open every day of the year and until 1 am (2 am on Saturdays), so you can plan an entire night on the town. Adult admission is $10.95 or you can get a family pass for $29.95.
Foothills Parkway
Driving time from our hotel: 40 minutes
Hop in the car and get ready for one of the most scenic drives near Pigeon Forge. Driving here during the fall will give you colorful photo ops with the famous foliage that blankets the valley. During the spring, you can see a nice mix of wildflowers. Take a trip to the section of highway in Townsend for the best views.
Titanic Museum
Driving time from our hotel: Less than 5 minutes
You can't leave Pigeon Forge without taking a photo in front of the Titanic! This popular attraction recreates what life was like aboard the famous ship. With interactive exhibits and guided tours, the Titanic Museum makes history come to life for all ages.
Forbidden Caverns
Driving time from our hotel: 30 minutes
Did you know Tennessee has thousands of underground caves? Head under the Smoky Mountains for a unique experience that your family will never forget. A tour guide takes you through this stunning natural feature that includes special light effects and sounds to add an extra dimension to the caves. The caverns are open from April to November from 10 am to 5 pm. They are closed on Sundays.
The Island
Driving time from our hotel: 5 minutes
One of the most popular photo ops in Pigeon Forge is just a quick drive from our hotel. The Island Show Fountain will take your breath away with more than 80 waterspouts creating an unforgettable display with lights and choreographed movement. Plan a trip to The Island in the evening if you want the best photo.
Planning Your Trip to Pigeon Forge
Are you ready to experience real Southern hospitality and the beauty of the Smoky Mountains? Pack up your camera and reserve a room at our Pigeon Forge hotel. All of our beautifully-appointed rooms come with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, so you can upload your photos and share them with everyone before you even get home. Every morning you can kick off your photo adventure with a free breakfast. Click to learn more about our Pigeon Forge suites.