You won’t have to look far to find great music during your vacation. Our Smoky Mountain cities are overflowing with talented musicians; all you have to do is follow your ears to the concert! While bluegrass and country are definitely specialties of the area, you’re bound to hear a little bit of everything during your getaway in the Smokies. To help you make the most of your next escape, we’ve put together a guide to the top places to hear live music in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Here are the top 5 places to hear live music in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg:
1. Music Shows
Pigeon Forge is famous for its amazing music shows! The Parkway is lined with a seemingly endless array of theaters that stage Las Vegas-quality shows that are appropriate for the whole family. Some of the shows even come with dinner, so you can enjoy a mouthwatering meal while you listen to the wonderful music. Here are some of the most popular music shows in town:
2. Moonshine Distilleries
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are home to a number of moonshine distilleries that regularly host live entertainment. These concerts are completely free and open to the public; you don’t have to buy anything to come on in and listen to the music. Most of the concerts feature local or touring musicians that play country, bluegrass, or Americana music. Here are a few of the distilleries you should definitely put on your list:
- Ole Smoky Moonshine Barn in Pigeon Forge
- Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler in Gatlinburg
- Sugarlands Distilling Co. in Gatlinburg
3. Restaurants
Restaurants are also excellent places to hear live music in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. There is nothing we enjoy more than savoring delicious food while listening to music from local bands. Here are some of the best restaurants with live entertainment:
Pigeon Forge:
- Margaritaville
- Hard Rock Cafe
- Harpoon Harry’s Crab House
- Smoky Mountain Brewery
Gatlinburg:
- Loco Burro
- Three Jimmy’s
- Ole Red’s
- Crawdaddy’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar (karaoke)
- Crystelle Creek Restaurant
- Tom and Earl’s Back Alley Grill
4. Dollywood
It’s no surprise that Dolly Parton’s theme park has amazing music! Dollywood hosts a variety of awesome music shows that are completely free with park admission. Some of the most popular shows include a Smoky Mountain string band, a roaming a cappella group, a Southern gospel quartet, and a special performance starring Dolly’s family members. The theme park also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year that bring big-name musical acts to Pigeon Forge. Here is a quick look at some of Dollywood’s best music festivals:
- Southern Gospel Jubilee and Harvest Festival (October)
- Festival of Nations (mid-March through mid-April)
- Barbeque & Bluegrass (May)
5. Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales (Seasonal)
Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales is one of Gatlinburg’s most beloved traditions! During the summer months (and on select days in the fall and winter), the most talented performers in the Smoky Mountains come to downtown Gatlinburg to perform free concerts. As you walk around The Strip you will see clog dancers, storytellers, artisans, bluegrass bands, folk singers, and even more entertainers. Shows with live music in Gatlinburg are typically held in the evenings.
When you stay with us, you will be near all of the best places to hear live music in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Can’t decide which city you’d rather stay in? Check out our blog about Gatlinburg vs Pigeon Forge to help you decide! With everything from 1 bedroom cabins to 8 bedroom cabins, we are guaranteed to have the perfect accommodations for your escape. To start planning your vacation, browse our selection of cabins in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg!
