
Danny and I were fortunate to have Leon Downey on the show to talk about Pigeon Forge. Leon has been the executive director for Pigeon Forge Tourism for 20 years and lived in the area for 32 years. So he has a unique perspective on the area.
It didn't take long for the conversation to turn to food. Breakfast in Pigeon Forge is amazing. Leon mentioned several places that you didn't want to miss.
You can't really talk about Pigeon Forge without talking about Dolly Parton. Dolly means so much to that area. We talk about Dollywood and how impressive of a theme park it has become. The Dreammore Resort that is attached to Dollywood is also impressive and comparable to places you'd stay in Orlando.
The dinner shows were another topic of conversation. Dolly also has several shows in town that are well worth the price of admission.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is all around Pigeon Forge and boasts 550,000 acres in the park. 800 miles of hiking trails and 2,900 miles of stream. Plenty of room for outdoor activities that are so important in the time of COVID-19.
All of this and more on this week's Family Vacationer! If you need more information on planning a trip to the area, go to mypigeonforge.com.
If you need help planning a vacation to Pigeon Forge or anywhere else, contact me (Rob) at [email protected].
Thanks so much for listening. We welcome you to subscribe so you don't miss an episode. Visit thefamilyvacationer.live and sign up for our newsletter to receive travel deals and information.
Next week we are moving on to the Rocket City. Huntsville, AL. Til next week! ~Rob
The Family Vacationer
The Family Vacationer is a weekly podcast helping families travel smarter, spend better, and create lasting memories together. Hosted by Rob and Traci, the show features expert interviews, real-life stories, and practical tips for planning meaningful, family-first adventures. From hidden gems to budget hacks, it's a must-listen for parents who want stress-free, joy-filled travel.
Meet the Hosts

Growing up, Rob Jones mainly traveled to Florida for vacation. Those family trips to Orlando and the Gulf Coast are cherished memories that influence him to this day. His entire professional career has involved travel. From working in the music business to event marketing, Rob has traveled to 46 states and five countries. Rob has been married to his wife, Traci, for 16 years and they love to travel with their three children: Ruthie, Nash, and Chase.

Traci's been shaking up the Dawson County School System for four years now, injecting it with her unique brand of energy and enthusiasm. When she's not molding young minds, you'll find her co-conspiring with her sister at Seasonal Events and Design—because who doesn't love a good party?
She's a self-proclaimed beach aficionado, never meeting a sandy shore she didn't instantly click with. And let's not forget her partner-in-crime for the past eighteen years, Rob, who's been keeping up with her antics and their three beautiful troublemakers—Ruthie, Chase, and Nash. Together, they're a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and love.
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