Trying to keep everyone in the family entertained can sometimes feel like piecing together a puzzle. You have little ones who want to simply run wild, teens who can be “too cool” for everything, parents who are carrying their fair share of suitcases and gear, and grandparents ready for a rest. It’s a lot. But the good news? With a little planning, it really is possible to please everyone.
If you’re going to a family-oriented destination like Pigeon Forge, the important thing is to mix it up and have the time of your life. Opt for activities that balance adventure and relaxation. That way, no one gets bored or left out — and you build memories that actually last.
Head to the Hills ─ A Mountain Adventure Everyone Can Enjoy
We love to take mountain trips, and it’s such a nice way to take a break, get some fresh air, and do something fun together. There’s something about the open space, gorgeous views, and tranquil setting that helps everyone relax while still enjoying the freedom to explore.
This is why mountain getaways are so great:
- Walk the gentle woodland trails with the little ones (and maybe tire them out a bit).
- Take moderate to strenuous hikes with older kids or teens craving more activity.
- Relax at scenic picnic spots with grandparents and enjoy the view.
- Sit around campfires in the evening for s’mores, tell stories, and maybe play the guitar.
If you’re planning to visit a place like Pigeon Forge, spring 2025 will make it even more exciting with the opening of the Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster. As the best mountain coaster in Pigeon Forge, this ride will entertain parents and kids side by side. So, yeah, put that on your list!
Plan Movie Night the Backyard Style
Occasionally, there’s no reason to leave the house to have a good time. A backyard movie night can transform a regular evening into something that feels a bit more special.
All you really need to do is:
- Set up a simple projector against a blank wall or white sheet.
- Arrange many comfortable seats — bean bags, lawn chairs, and even sleeping bags
- Choose a combination of family-friendly films (something for everyone).
- Prepare snacks like large bowls of popcorn, candy, and hot cocoa or lemonade.
- Lay out blankets and pillows to keep it cozy and snug.
Have a mini-marathon where everyone picks a movie in the rotation. Cartoons for the young ones, an action or comedy movie for the tweens — even grandpa and grandma can bring out some golden oldies!
Have a Family Jam Session
The jam isn’t just for musicians. The idea is to just let go and have fun with each other.
You can grab:
- A couple of drums or bongos.
- A few simple instruments like maracas, tambourines, or a small ukulele.
- A music app on your phone or tablet to play backing tracks.
Invite everyone to participate — even if it’s just to clap. Set up mini-performances or sing-alongs. Let the younger ones write goofy songs and see if the grandparents want to share something old-school. It might sound a bit chaotic, but it’s the kind of chaos that brings people together.
Get Cooking in the Kitchen
Food has a special way of uniting people, and cooking together as a family makes mealtime feel like a party. You don’t need anything fancy — just something hands-on and easy to prep.
Here’s what works well:
- Hosting a build-your-own pizza night with everyone picking their toppings.
- Creating a cupcake decorating station to mix, bake, and frost cupcakes.
- Setting up a taco bar or pasta night where everyone builds their own meal
If you want to go further, take a family cooking class or watch a recipe video online. Divide up the tasks:
- Let young children stir, whisk, or set the table.
- Let older children chop the ingredients (with adult supervision, of course!)
- Let adults handle the oven or stovetop tasks.
It’s fun, collaborative, and absolutely delicious.
Let There Be Arts and Crafts
Arts and crafts are always a win. You don’t need to be an artist — just open to creativity and laughter.
Set up a few crafting stations like:
- Painting or coloring
- Making friendship bracelets
- Decorating photo frames
- Designing homemade holiday cards or decorations
Be sure to provide easy kits for little ones and more detailed supplies for teens and adults. Wrap up the session with a fun mini “gallery” to show off everyone’s masterpieces. Add some silly awards like:
- “Most Colorful”
- “Funniest Design”
- “Best Use of Glitter”
The goal isn’t perfection. It’s about trying, sharing, and having fun together.
Go to a Farm — It’s Way Cooler Than You Think
Farm visits aren’t just for school field days. They’re actually really fun for everyone in the family.
Look for farms that offer:
- Fruit picking activities for seasonal fruit or berries (so therapeutic and super fun for kids)
- Petting zoos with goats, sheep, rabbits, or miniature ponies
- Hayrides or exploring mini playgrounds
It’s the kind of outing where everyone smiles — and you leave with adorable photos and maybe a basket of treats.
Play a “Family Game Show” at Home
This activity is always a crowd-pleaser. Turn your living room into a playful game show set and let the fun begin.
You’ll need:
- A homemade buzzer (like a bell, a clap, or someone shouting “buzz!”)
- Trivia questions from favorite TV shows, songs, or random fun facts
- Physical challenges (like balancing a spoon on your nose or hopping on one foot)
Create mixed-age teams so everyone gets a chance to shine. Hand out mini prizes — think candy, stickers, or even goofy homemade trophies. It’s less about winning and more about laughs.
It’s not always easy to entertain an extended, multi-generational family — but yes, it really is possible, and even enjoyable. When you mix activities that are exciting, silly, and calming, you create something far better than a perfect plan: you create real, meaningful moments that stay with everyone.
Whether you’re baking cupcakes in your kitchen, or laughing at your uncle trying to balance a spoon on his nose — it’s about togetherness.
Because at the end of the day, the best memories are the ones where everyone is included — and maybe just a little bit silly.
