Pigeon Forge: The Heart of Smoky Mountain Fun

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see ya lay-ter]
• YesYessir
  [yes-sir]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease and thank ya kindly
  [pleez and thank ya kine-lee]
• Thank youThank ya
  [thank ya]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [par-dun me]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how yawl doin]
• Fine. And you?Doin' good. How 'bout you?
  [doin good. how bout you]
• Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yawl speak ing-lish]
• I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [i aint ketch-in on]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu, please
  [can eye check out the menu pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [i dont do meat]
• Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bottoms up]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI reckon I'll pay now, please
  [i reckon ill pay now pleez]

• Help!Lord have mercy!
  [lord have mercy]
• Go away!Git!
  [git]
• Call the Police!Ring up the law!
  [ring up the law]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc on the line!
  [get a doc on the line]
• I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [im all turned around]
• I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [im feelin poorly]

• I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to purchase...
  [im fixin to purchase]
• I'm just lookingJus' browsin'
  [jus browsin]
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats the dam-ij]
• That's too expensiveThat'll break the bank
  [thatll break the bank]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya do any better on the price?
  [can ya do any better on the price]

• What time is it?What's the time of day?
  [whats the time of day]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [tomorra]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
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• 9Nine
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  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [wheres the]
• What's the address?What's the street?
  [whats the street]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [can ya point it out on the map]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus comin'?
  [whens the next bus comin]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket for...
  [a ticket for]

Before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Pigeon Forge was inhabited by the Cherokee people. The region was rich with natural resources and served as an important hunting ground. European settlers began to arrive in the late 1700s, bringing with them new customs and ways of life that would forever change the landscape and culture of the region.

Pigeon Forge was officially established in the early 1800s. The name 'Pigeon Forge' comes from an iron forge built by Isaac Love in 1817, situated along the Little Pigeon River. The forge became a pivotal point for local industry, producing iron goods for the growing community. The river itself was named after the now-extinct passenger pigeons that were once abundant in the area.

During the Civil War, Pigeon Forge, like much of Tennessee, found itself divided between Union and Confederate loyalties. The region saw minimal direct conflict, but many local men joined both sides of the war effort. The area's iron forge and mills contributed to the war by producing supplies for both the Union and Confederate armies.

Tourism in Pigeon Forge began to take off in the mid-20th century. The establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1934 drew visitors to the area, and Pigeon Forge capitalized on this influx of tourists. The construction of U.S. Route 441 in the 1950s made the area more accessible, leading to the development of a variety of tourist attractions, from amusement parks to dinner theaters.

One of the most significant developments in Pigeon Forge's modern history was the opening of Dollywood in 1986. Country music legend Dolly Parton partnered with Herschend Family Entertainment to create a theme park that celebrates Appalachian culture and history. Dollywood has since become one of the most visited attractions in the region, drawing millions of visitors each year and spurring further development in the area.

Pigeon Forge is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is celebrated through various festivals and events. The town hosts annual events such as the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival and Winterfest, showcasing local crafts, music, and traditions. These events draw tourists from around the world and play a significant role in preserving the unique Appalachian culture of the region.

Pigeon Forge is located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. The nearest major airport is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, approximately 35 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a shuttle service, or use ride-sharing apps to reach Pigeon Forge. Another option is to drive; Pigeon Forge is accessible via major highways such as I-40 and US-441.

While in Pigeon Forge, you can rely on various modes of transportation. The town is small enough that many attractions are within walking distance. The Fun Time Trolley operates throughout Pigeon Forge and offers affordable and convenient services to major attractions. For more flexibility, consider renting a car. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's always useful to carry some cash for smaller businesses and tips. ATMs are readily available throughout Pigeon Forge, including at major attractions and shopping centers.

Pigeon Forge is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's important to take basic safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and always stay aware of your surroundings. While Pigeon Forge does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it's advisable to keep your valuables secure and be cautious in crowded places.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Pigeon Forge has a local police department and several medical facilities, including LeConte Medical Center, which is nearby in Sevierville. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Casual attire is acceptable in most places, but some fine dining establishments may have a dress code. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially if visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and follow posted rules when using the Fun Time Trolley. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' Handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as Southern BBQ and fried chicken. Don't forget to tip your server, usually around 15-20% of the bill.

To experience Pigeon Forge like a local, visit the Old Mill Square for a glimpse into the town's history and to enjoy some local cuisine. Attend a show at one of the many live theaters, such as the Smoky Mountain Opry. For a more laid-back experience, consider visiting during the off-peak season in early spring or late fall. Don't miss out on the scenic drives and hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.