#19 of 97 Pigeon Forge Things To Do

WonderWorks Pigeon Forge

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WonderWorks Pigeon Forge: 50% Theme Park, 50% Science Museum, & 100% Fun!
Written by: David Angotti
Staff Score:
4 / 5
The Bottom Line:

WonderWorks is one of the best values in the Smoky Mountains and has something to offer for visitors of all ages. However, on crowded days at peak times, WonderWorks can be challenging and even downright miserable.

- The SmokyMountains.com Local Expert Team

WonderWorks Pigeon Forge, which is located inside a humongous upside-down building, is one of the most popular attractions in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains. The WonderWorks attraction is a combination of a science fair, amusement park, and children’s museum all rolled up into one huge experience. The admission price includes access to over 150 activities ranging from roller coaster simulators to black light ropes courses.

In my opinion, the wide appeal of the WonderWorks Pigeon Forge exhibits is the strongest reason to visit. WonderWorks Pigeon Forge simultaneously entertains young children, teenagers, and adults – the plentiful attractions are truly fun for people of all ages! Depending on the crowds and how many exhibits your party decides to interact with, the experience should take between two and four hours.

Some of the attractions and exhibits include:

Inversion Tunnel
As you enter the WonderWorks Pigeon Forge experience, you will pass through an inversion tunnel. Hang on to the rails – the combination of the colors, patterns, and circular motion will make you feel like you are upside down.

Xtreme 360
Imagine a pedal-powered, upside-down carnival ride. The speed at which you pedal determines the rate of your upside-down revolutions.

Hurricane Simulator
Step into this small room to see what a 65-mile-per-hour wind feels like. Don’t worry you don’t get wet. The word hurricane is a little misleading – this is nothing more than a low-speed wind tunnel.

Bed of Nails
See what it feels like to lie down on a bed made out of 3,497 nails! Don’t worry it won’t hurt a bit.

Climbing Wall
The rock climbing wall, which is a beginner level, is a fun physical challenge for everyone. Race a friend or family member to the top and earn bragging rights.

Wonder Coaster
This multiple-axis virtual roller coaster will take you through seemingly endless loops and rolls. The coaster has a full 360 degrees of pitch and roll that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping!

Ropes Course
The indoor ropes course, which is the largest in the world, is over 50 feet tall! The course is sure to please adrenaline junkies and families alike. As you climb 4 stories of rope, you will cross tremor bridges, and swinging beams, and experience over 50 obstacles. Due to the black lights, the entire course has a psychedelic atmosphere. In my opinion, the ropes course is the best attraction at WonderWorks Pigeon Forge.

The above list is just a small sampling of the 150+ exhibits and attractions at WonderWorks Pigeon Forge.

If you decide to visit on a weekend during peak season, you will finally understand Yogi Berra’s cryptic quote: “Nobody goes there anymore. It’s too crowded.” Depending on the size of the crowds, it is entirely possible that you will feel as if you have been teleported to a nightmarish version of a grade school field trip. Prior to visiting, ask one of the attendants if there are long lines for the popular attractions. If the lines are long, I highly recommend returning when it is less crowded.

While WonderWorks Pigeon Forge does have a snack bar (WonderDog Cafe), the quality of the food is low, and the prices are high. Instead of paying too much for an hour-old hot dog on a stale bun, I recommend leaving the attraction and eating elsewhere. Remember, your ticket allows you to come and go as you please for the whole day.

In my opinion, this 55,000-square-foot interactive attraction is definitely worth visiting and one of the best values in the Smokies. The all-inclusive price ensures that your family will stay happy for several hours at a set price. Your group will remember the hands-on exhibits and experiences long after your trip is over.

During your visit to WonderWorks Pigeon Forge, the following restrictions will apply:

  • Wonder Coaster – Minimum height of 48”
  • Ropes Course – Minimum height of 48” to participate alone or 42” when accompanied by an adult (all participants are required to wear closed shoes)
  • Rock Climbing – Must weigh between 40 and 250 pounds and wear closed shoes
  • 360 Degree Bikes – Minimum height of 58” and must wear closed shoes

Insider Tip:
Prior to purchasing tickets, make sure everyone in your party meets the height, age, and weight requirements for rides, and check to ensure the best attractions are open. Also, no flip-flops or sandals – many of the attractions require closed-toed shoes.