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Pigeon Forge, Tenn. will welcome a new Crayola Experience family entertainment venue in fall 2024, adding a new destination to the attraction-filled city.

Crayola Experience at Pigeon Forge is a collaboration among BrightColors LLC, Kingsmen Xperience Inc., and Crayola LLC. The new venue will be the sixth in the Crayola Experience portfolio, and the first in what the companies describe as a “next-generation” location.

“We’re very excited to be developing the first of the next-generation Crayola Experiences,” said Robin Turner, managing director of BrightColors. “This will mark one of the first global branded attractions in the Pigeon Forge area. We will continue to focus on family-friendly markets with a strong tourism and residential draw to bring the colorful world of Crayola to new audiences.”

Discover the Magic of Color

Some offerings are familiar favorites from existing Crayola Experience locations. Others will be newly created for Pigeon Forge. Across 30,000 square feet, guests at Crayola Experience in Pigeon Forge will participate in over 20 activities, including:

Crayola Experience will include a retail store with the biggest selection of Crayola products in the world.

A visit to Crayola Experience at Pigeon Forge could also pair nicely with trips to other nearby attractions, such as Dollywood or the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster.

Other Crayola Experience locations are located in Orlando, Fla.; Bloomington, Minn.; Easton, Penn.; Plano, Tex,; and Chandler, Ariz. To purchase tickets to existing venues, click here.

For an idea of what to expect at the new Pigeon Forge location when it opens in fall 2024, check out our tour of Orlando’s Crayola Experience from when it first opened in 2015. Perhaps imagine a decade forward of more advanced technology, though.

First of five new Crayola Experience locations to be developed in U.S. by 2027

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn., Aug. 15, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- BrightColors LLC and its strategic partner Kingsmen Xperience Inc., in association with Crayola LLC, announced today that Pigeon Forge, Tenn. will be home to the creativity brand's newest Crayola Experience family entertainment venue. The next generation Crayola Experience will add its unique splash of color to Tennessee's popular vacation destination in fall 2024.

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Crayola Experience has been a family destination for interactive creative play for more than 25 years. The adventures of these immersive attractions help kids and adults alike explore art and technology, express their creativity, and experience color in a whole new way. The newest member of the Crayola Experience pack will be the brand's sixth attraction, joining operations in Pennsylvania, Florida, Minnesota, Texas, and Arizona.

The 30,000-square-foot indoor family entertainment center planned for Pigeon Forge will have more than 20 hands-on attractions and a retail store featuring the world's largest selection of Crayola products and unique souvenirs. Visitors will delight in innovative, never-before-seen attractions, as well as beloved, one-of-a-kind Crayola Experience activities such as naming their own Crayola crayon, starring in their own coloring page, and creating melted wax art.

"Crayola Experience at Pigeon Forge will introduce new colorful adventures to our iconic lineup of imagination-inspiring activities, taking the experience to a new level," said Warren Schorr, Crayola Senior Vice President Business Development, Global Licensing & Experiences. "We've sharpened our crayons to create a new experience that transports guests into the whimsical world of Crayola crayons and markers."

"We're very excited to be developing the first of the next generation Crayola Experiences," said Robin Turner, Managing Director of BrightColors. "This will mark one of the first global branded attractions in the Pigeon Forge area. We will continue to focus on family-friendly markets with a strong tourism and residential draw to bring the colorful world of Crayola to new audiences."

The Pigeon Forge attraction is the first of five Crayola Experience locations that BrightColors plans to open over the next five years as part of a licensing agreement with Crayola that will double the attraction brand's presence in the U.S.

For licensing inquiries: [email protected]

Visual assets for media use: Crayola Experience Asset Gallery

SOURCE Crayola

Get ready to go back in time for your vacation. Way back in time.

The Wayback is a groovy, retro-themed hotel mostly for adults opening in Pigeon Forge between Flapjack's Pancake Cabin and the Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride.

Inspired by old roadside motels in Palm Springs, the hotel is hoping to provide a "vibrant escape amidst the high energy of downtown Pigeon Forge."

The 134-room hotel is expected to open in early September, according to general manager Marty Rothchild, and is developed by Sevierville-based company Aatmos. It's a Tribute portfolio hotel, part of the Marriott family.

“We are excited to bring to market a product that finally catches up to meet the drastically changing needs and expectations of today’s travelers," Mahavir Patel, president and CEO of Aatmos, said in a press release. "With our grand opening right around the corner, we are finalizing the last touches to this spirited oasis and soon-to-be iconic destination property.”

The Wayback in Pigeon Forge a place for 'schmoozing'

With a hotel bar, Airstream bar and a taco truck all by the pool, The Wayback's website describes it as a place for "schmoozing" and relaxing.

The funky, nostalgic vibes permeate throughout the property, with vibrant (yet slightly muted) colors and wavy lines.

Once checked in, Rothchild said, guests will receive a complimentary welcome cocktail to kick off the stay.

The hotel caters to adults and older teens. Guests can bring someone younger, but it might not be the hotel for them.

The pool, which is bordered by private cabanas, is only available to guests over 16 during the day and is 18-and-older after 4 p.m.

Guests can pick from one of three rooms available, with prices starting at $250 a night:

Each rooms comes with a flatscreen TV, in-room Wi-Fi and a refrigerator. Some higher end rooms will feature amenities like fireplaces and larger showers.

If you're looking to do more then just schmooze at the hotel, Rothchild said The Wayback is curating guest experiences to enjoy all the attractions in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

A south-of-the-border menu

Whether you've been running around Pigeon Forge theme parks all day or just lounging around the pool, you're bound to work up an appetite.

Paloma, the hotel's restaurant, will feature tacos and other Mexican-style cuisine as part of a menu Rothchild said will have an "imaginative south-of-the-border flair."

Between the Airstream bar at the swim club and the hotel bar, you'll find a variety of tequila and other "agave-based spirits" and cocktails to quench your thirst.

If you'd like to jump into a time machine and spend some time in the Wayback once it opens up, you can book a stay at waybackhotel.com.

As I drove down Gatlinburg, Tennessee’s main strip during a trip last month, I saw the kinds of attractions I’d expect from a family vacation destination: I passed by Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, the entrance to Anakeesta theme park, Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, and many others.

But within what felt like seconds, the museums, shops and restaurants faded in my rearview mirror, and I arrived at a tree-lined entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

“That's what does set Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg apart from destinations like Orlando that may have some more theme park attractions, but we can stay in a cabin in a mountain and see a bear,” said Allison Galyon, a travel agent with AAA.

While the national park – the most visited in the U.S. – and Dolly Parton’s Dollywood theme park are renowned vacation destinations for families, the surrounding area in Sevier County has plenty more to offer visitors.

‘Conservative Las Vegas’

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge occupy a prime place in Thomas Delp’s summer vacation rotation. The 34-year-old and his family alternate between going to the beach in North or South Carolina, visiting his parents in Philadelphia and heading to the mountains in East Tennessee each year.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“We enjoy the nice family atmosphere,” said Delp, who has three kids under 10 with his wife, Tiffany. The Winston-Salem, North Carolina, family took a weeklong trip there over Memorial Day, and the couple visit the area at least twice a year on their own. The church where Delp is a pastor does an annual couples retreat, as well.

In Pigeon Forge, Delp and his family have been frequent patrons of the Comedy Barn Theater, and have visited other attractions like the Titanic Museum Attraction and the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud show.

“There's go-karts, mini golf,” he said. “I call it a conservative Las Vegas.”

The abundance of choices may contribute to the area being popular among repeat visitors. “You’ll run out of time before you run out of fun,” said Mark Ezell, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development.

According to research from the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, 76% of travelers to that city alone will return within one year, while 32% will come back within six months.

Learn more:Dolly Parton leaves Dollywood’s thrill rides to guests. Here’s what she does instead.

How to plan a trip to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

If travelers are looking to try everything the area has to offer without feeling rushed, it could take them two weeks, according to Galyon. For a family, the travel agent said a week should be enough time to see the highlights, giving them a chance to hit various theme and water parks, explore walkable Gatlinburg and visit the national park, including Cades Cove, a valley with plenty of chances to spot wildlife like white-tailed deer.

? When to go: Galyon, who grew up in the area, especially likes fall and winter, when Winterfest takes place and the area is dressed up in twinkling lights. Visitors can see the displays on tours or explore on their own.

“When I was a kid (with) my parents, we’d just go on drives through Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge to see the lights,” she said.

Spring – when the weather is nice and Dollywood opens for the season – and summer are popular times for visitors as well, Galyon said.

? How to get there: Leon Downey, executive director of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, said most visitors drive, primarily coming from nearby places in the Southeast like Atlanta, Georgia, or Charlotte, North Carolina.

“The other thing that works in our favor is that people see Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Seviervlle as one destination,” he said. While they may stay in one of the three, Downey said, “our research tells us they're visiting all three cities and spending money in all three cities.”

Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport – about a 45-minute drive from Sevierville and one hour and 15 minutes from Gatlinburg – is the closest major airport, according to Galyon.

But no matter how they get there, she said visitors will want to have a car during their trip to be able to easily get between cities and drive into the national park.

? Where to stay: The area offers a range of lodging, from campgrounds to upscale properties like Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa. Galyon said the best fit depends on the size of the group, but for the many multigenerational families the area hosts, she’d recommend booking a cabin.

“I think you kind of get more bang for your buck there,” she said. They often have full-size kitchens where guests can cook meals and game rooms, according to Galyon. A cabin also puts guests “more in the mountains."

‘These are my people’:How Dolly Parton stays true to her roots at Dollywood

Delp typically opts for Club Wyndham Smoky Mountains, though his family sometimes stays in Airbnbs.

They recently bought season passes to Dollywood, and will go back three or four more times this year to make the purchase worth it, giving them an excuse to spend more quality time in the Smokies. “We really value our time with family and we value our time together,” Delp said.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville, Tennessee. You can reach him at [email protected].

As you traverse the USA's landscapes, the allure of Pigeon Forge and Sevierville beckons with adventures against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains. In 2023, join the rhythms of music festivals in Bristol and experience the warmth of Southern hospitality in Lynchburg. Whether it's relishing mouthwatering barbecue or venturing into underground caverns in McMinnville, these towns offer an intimate encounter with Tennessee's essence. 2023 stands as an open invitation to explore the captivating charm of Tennessee's towns. Dive into the present moment, where history meets modernity, and stories of the past blend seamlessly with the experiences of today. It's time to create memories, relish festivals, and unearth the treasures that Tennessee's towns have to offer.

Bell Buckle

Bell Buckle, a gorgeously small town with a wacky name, is renowned for its vintage pieces, quilts, handicrafts, Southern friendliness, country tunes, and scrumptious food. Bell Buckle's exquisitely restored Victorian architecture will take you back to that era as soon as you step inside. Plan your trip to coincide with the RC-Moon Pie Festival, which honors the town's odd past with competitions, activities, and, naturally, delicious Moon Pies. The Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum, located south of the city, is a must-see for horse enthusiasts due to its extensive displays and exhibitions on equestrian history. The rhythmic melodies of bluegrass and folk music at the Bell Buckle Café, where live performances infuse the atmosphere with soulful tunes, are paired with finger-licking southern meals.

Jonesborough

Even Tennessee did not exist when Jonesborough did, and the town's streets are a tribute to the past. Stop by Christopher Taylor's log cabin from 1778, which is thought to be Jonesborough's oldest dwelling, or satisfy your sweet taste at The Old Sweet Shop, located inside the Old Masonic Hall from the 1800s. A zero-depth wading pool, lazy river, water slide, and other family-friendly activities are available at the town's Wetlands Water Park. The Tennessee Hills Distillery, which offers tours and samples of hand-crafted spirits, is an outstanding spot to have beverages. With the International Storytelling Centre and The National Storytelling Festival, this fascinating town elevates storytelling.

Sevierville

Nestled at the threshold of the majestic Great Smoky Mountains, Sevierville is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking exhilarating escapades. Take a guided tour through the Forbidden Caverns to uncover an underground realm adorned with mesmerizing formations.

Sevierville's charm extends beyond nature's wonders. Dabble in retail therapy at Tanger Outlets, a shopping oasis offering designer treasures at enticing prices. You can embrace the local spirit during the Bloomin' Barbecue & Bluegrass Festival, where the aroma of smoked delicacies intertwines with the toe-tapping melodies of bluegrass tunes. An indoor adventure park for families, Sevier Air Trampoline and Ninja Warrior Park offers everything from high-flying sports to dodgeball and trampolines.

Gatlinburg

East Tennessee's Gatlinburg, an alpine town, is your quick access spot for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From skiing and snowboarding in the colder months to downhill slides and a wildlife adventure in the summer, Ober Gatlinburg offers thrills all year long.

Explore the artistic side of the community at the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, where you may buy handmade goods and watch artisans at work. The Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair, which highlights the skills of regional craftspeople, is just one of many events that fill the calendar in this tourist destination. You can take a ghost tour of the city's main thoroughfares. Consider signing up for the Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour if you are looking to chill.

McMinnville

Tucked away in the Cumberland Plateau, McMinnville reveals a lesser-known side of Tennessee's allure. You can explore the serenity of Cumberland Caverns, home to awe-inspiring rock formations and underground concerts that resonate within the cavern's acoustics, or embark on the Collins River Canoe Trail for a tranquil paddle through scenic landscapes.

Uncovering the local arts scene at the Park Theater, hosting live performances that range from theatrical productions to musical showcases, will be an absolute delight. McMinnville's Southern charm shines through at the Autumn Street Fair, where food, music, and artisanal crafts harmonize in a delightful celebration. Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens, a Victorian mansion steeped in history and adorned with manicured gardens, is another pleasant stop to add to the list.

Rogersville

Rogersville promises a picturesque slice of history with a stroll through its charming streets, flanked by beautifully preserved buildings that whisper tales of days gone by. You can explore the Rogersville Heritage Association's guided walking tour, unveiling stories of the past behind the town's landmarks.

Cultural enthusiasts will be captivated by the historic Hale Springs Inn, offering not only elegant accommodations but also a glimpse into the town's heritage. Dive into local flavors at the Rogersville Farmers Market, a vibrant hub of fresh produce and artisanal goods. The ambiance of the Rogersville Arts Council, where artistic endeavors come to life through exhibitions and workshops, will brim your senses with inspiration.

Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge paints a vibrant canvas of adventure and entertainment. Starting with, you can experience the heart-pounding adventures at Dollywood, where exhilarating rides and toe-tapping shows await. Pigeon Forge thrives on festivals like the Winterfest Trolley Tour of Lights and the Quiltfest, which celebrates the art of quilting. The Titanic Museum beckons history buffs with its interactive exhibits that recreate the fateful voyage.

Speaking of outdoor adventure, take a day or two to travel through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, or hire a raft, paddle board, or canoe and cruise the Pigeon River. You might even camp out during your visit for a thrilling but calm night under the stars.

Retire in TennesseeDiscover the best small towns to retire in Tennessee.

Bristol

One common thing between Virginia and Tennessee: they both have Bristol. Tennessee's Bristol's claim to fame lies in being the Birthplace of Country Music, a heritage celebrated at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. Uncover its rhythmic legacy at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, and let the town serenade you during the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, a jubilant festival celebrating the roots of American music.

Venture outdoors to South Holston Lake, where you can have a go at fishing, boating, and serene lakeside picnics against a backdrop of rolling hills. Explore the Appalachian Caverns for an underground adventure, unveiling intriguing formations and subterranean wonders. A visit to the Bristol Train Station, a beautifully restored landmark showcasing the town's railway heritage, would be worthwhile.

Pulaski

Pulaski invites you to embark on a journey that weaves history and natural beauty into an enchanting thread. Begin your exploration at the Sam Davis Home, an architectural marvel that transports you to the Civil War era through meticulously preserved artifacts and insightful exhibits. The Giles County Courthouse stands tall, an emblem of the town's enduring heritage. If time permits, then do check out the annual Giles County Tomato Festival, a vibrant celebration of local agriculture complete with tomato-themed contests, live music, and mouth watering treats. For a taste of local culture, the Martin Methodist College showcases thought-provoking art exhibitions and theatrical performances. Milky Way Farm takes you on a ride of an estate boasting lush landscapes and a historic mansion.

Lynchburg

Lynchburg is a place where stories are distilled into every corner, quite literally. It's the birthplace of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey, and a guided tour through the historic Jack Daniel's Distillery reveals the alchemy behind this world-renowned spirit. You can learn about the town's storied past at the Moore County Old Jail Museum, where tales of prohibition and notable characters come to life. Time your visit for the Jack Daniel's World Championship Invitational Barbecue, a legendary event featuring mouthwatering barbecue, live music, and camaraderie. The hidden gem of Lynchburg lies in its Lynchburg Winery, where local grapes are transformed into exquisite wines. Here, you may try the tantalizing flavors amid serene vineyard views, making every sip a tribute to Tennessee's rich agricultural heritage.

In the realm of travel experiences, Tennessee's enchanting towns in 2023 greet you with their irresistible blend of history, nature, and culture. The beauty of these towns lies not only in their stunning façades but also in the stories they share, the festivals they host, and the experiences they gift. From the artistic haven of Bell Buckle to the magic of festivals, tales, crafts, and delicacies that converge in Bristol, you will gather a gazillion memories to fill your books. Venture forth into this patchwork of captivating destinations in Tennessee and capture moments that resonate for a lifetime.