Sevierville is a fantastic base for exploring the Smoky Mountains with a variety of tours that fit nearly every interest and fitness level. You might be drawn to the spectacular helicopter rides offering sweeping views of Douglas Lake and Wears Valley or prefer the thrill of ziplining through the treetops with stunning mountain vistas. For those interested in local culture, a moonshine and wine tour provides a delicious taste of Tennessee’s spirited traditions. We especially love the Impossibilities Magic Show for families seeking an evening of fun and amazement, and the Cades Cove Bus Tour for a relaxed way to enjoy wildlife and scenery without the stress of driving.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 16 tours in Sevierville, highlighting what makes each one special. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history lover, or simply looking for a memorable experience, you’ll find options that suit your style and budget.
1. Impossibilities Magic Show in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
At number 1, the Impossibilities Magic Show offers a family-friendly evening packed with illusions, mindreading, and interactive comedy. Held at the Iris Theater in Gatlinburg—located in the lobby of the historic Space Needle—this show features magicians Chris Collins and Erik Dobell. The 1.5-hour performance guarantees admission with pre-booked tickets, making it easy to plan an entertaining night out. Audience participation is a highlight, and reviews praise the show’s humor and baffling tricks, with many calling it “very entertaining” and “worth going again.” It’s perfect for families or anyone craving a fun, lighthearted experience after a day exploring the mountains.
Bottom Line: A well-reviewed, family-friendly show that combines comedy and magic for an enjoyable evening, especially if you enjoy interactive entertainment.
2. Small-Group 7-Line Zipline Activity at Sevierville Nature Park
For adventure lovers, the Small-Group 7-Line Zipline tour stands out. Covering 2,500 feet with seven ziplines reaching speeds up to 50 mph, this tour offers fantastic views of the Smoky Mountains. Guided by professionals, it’s tailored for small groups—up to 12 guests—which means personalized attention and safety. Many reviewers mention how even those with a fear of heights quickly got comfortable thanks to the friendly staff. The tour is accessible for those with good physical fitness and is close to Pigeon Forge, making it a convenient yet thrilling option.
Bottom Line: An exciting, well-reviewed zipline experience suitable for most fitness levels, especially if you want a guided and intimate adventure.
3. Douglas Lake View Scenic Helicopter Tour
If aerial views are your thing, the Douglas Lake Scenic Helicopter Tour offers a quick but memorable 6-minute flight. Flying over the French Broad River, Douglas Lake, and the Great Smoky Mountains, this tour provides stunning vistas of the 33,000-acre manmade lake. During the flight, your pilot offers narration, pointing out landmarks like Douglas Dam and farmland patterns — perfect for snapping photos. With multiple departures daily, it’s easy to fit into your schedule. Reviewers praise the staff and the “smooth ride,” describing it as a “really enjoyable flight.”
Bottom Line: An affordable and fast helicopter experience ideal for first-time flyers or those short on time but eager for mountain vistas.
4. Extended Douglas Lake Region Tour by Helicopter
For those wanting a broader view, the Extended Douglas Lake Tour extends your sky-high adventure to 8 minutes. This flight climbs higher and offers expansive views of Douglas Lake, Douglas Dam, and the surrounding landscape. Passengers enjoy narration from the pilot, enhancing the experience’s educational aspect. It’s family-friendly and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers. Reviewers emphasize how “incredible the views” are and that they’d do it again to see more of the scenery.
Bottom Line: A longer, more comprehensive helicopter tour that offers sweeping views and informative commentary, great for families and photo enthusiasts.
5. Ridge Runner Smoky Mountain Helicopter Tour
The Ridge Runner is a 15-minute helicopter tour that offers a quick but breathtaking peek into the Smoky Mountains. You’ll fly over historic downtown Sevierville, the Tennessee Valley, and the Chilhowee Mountain Range. The route takes you just above treetops and offers dramatic views of Bluff Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain. Reviewers mention how “fantastic” and “breathtaking” the experience is, especially at sunset. It’s a popular choice for those short on time but wanting a comprehensive snapshot of the landscape.
Bottom Line: An exciting, short helicopter flight packed with sights, perfect for a quick thrill and photo ops.
6. The Smoky Mountain Valley Adventure by Helicopter
This 12-minute helicopter tour showcases 24 miles of mountain scenery, focusing on Bluff Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain. The emphasis is on the vast, undeveloped forests of the Smoky Mountain National Park. The pilot’s narration highlights natural features and history, making it educational as well as scenic. Reviews highlight how “very friendly staff” and “incredible views” make it a favorite. It’s perfect for groups or anyone wanting to see the mountains from a comfortable vantage point.
Bottom Line: A mid-length, scenic tour ideal for nature lovers who want to see a broad swath of the mountains from above.
7. Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour From Pigeon Forge
If you’re interested in Tennessee’s spirited traditions, the Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour offers a tasty and informative experience. Over 3 to 5 hours, visit multiple distilleries and wineries, including Apple Barn Winery, Hillside Winery, and Tennessee Shine Co. Tastings are included at each stop, and you’ll learn about the history of moonshine and prohibition from your guide. Many reviews praise the “wild Bill” at Tennessee Shine Co. for making the stop especially memorable. It’s a great way to sample local flavors while enjoying a relaxed tour.
Bottom Line: A flavorful, laid-back tour for those who enjoy spirits and wine with a side of Tennessee history, best suited for adult travelers.
8. Scenic Helicopter Tour of Wears Valley, Tennessee
This 18-minute flight takes you over Wears Valley, a scenic area of the Smoky Mountains. Flying from Sevierville, you’ll see Cove Mountain, Waldens Creek, and the park boundary. The pilot provides in-flight commentary, making the flight both exciting and educational. Reviewers love how “smooth” and “entertaining” the ride is, especially highlighting the “great views” of the valleys and mountain ridges. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a detailed aerial tour of this particular part of the park.
Bottom Line: A longer, detailed helicopter experience perfect for exploring the Wears Valley area from above.
9. Sights of Smoky Mountains, Real Local History
Spanning about 6 hours, this guided bus tour dives into the rich history and culture of the Smoky Mountains. You visit Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Townsend, stopping at Elkmont Ghost Town and enjoying a lunch break in Townsend. The guide shares stories about the area’s founders, old mills, and local legends. Reviewers mention how the “knowledgeable” driver brings history to life and how the experience offers a well-rounded look at the region’s past. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, educational tour that combines scenic stops with storytelling, ideal for history buffs or families.
10. Digital Ocean Adventure in Sevierville
This innovative digital ocean experience blends storytelling, CGI animation, and interactive displays. It’s designed to immerse families and kids in the underwater world without getting wet. The tour explores virtual underwater landscapes and marine life, providing an engaging and educational experience. While the price is modest at $25.50 per person, reviews note how fun and visually impressive it is. It’s a great indoor option for rainy days or for travelers who prefer digital adventures.
Bottom Line: An engaging family-friendly activity that combines technology and storytelling, perfect for curious kids and parents alike.
11. Cades Cove Sightseeing Bus Tour from Pigeon Forge
For those wanting a low-stress way to see wildlife and scenery, this guided bus tour covers the 11-mile Cades Cove loop in 4 to 5 hours. It’s a relaxing alternative to driving and provides expert commentary on the area’s wildlife, history, and natural features. Reviewers appreciate the “comfortable bus” and the “knowledgeable guide,” with hopes of spotting bears on future trips. It’s ideal for visitors who want a break from driving but still get a deep look at the park’s beauty.
Bottom Line: An effortless, educational way to experience Cades Cove, especially suitable for families or travelers with limited mobility.
12. Helicopter Ride in Smoky Mountain Sevierville Great Smoky Tour
This 20-27 minute premium helicopter tour provides a comprehensive aerial view of the Smoky Mountains, including Douglas Lake, downtown Sevierville, Gatlinburg, and Clingmans Dome. Its longer duration and extensive sights make it more expensive at $320 per person but ideal for those seeking the ultimate bird’s-eye experience. Reviewers highlight the “breathtaking” views and the professionalism of the crew. It’s best suited for visitors celebrating special occasions or those who want the most complete aerial tour.
Bottom Line: The top choice for travelers wanting a full, immersive mountain experience from above, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.
13. Trees of Many Colors Tour from Pigeon Forge
This 5-hour fall foliage tour combines driving and walking through the Smokies to see the best autumn colors. Visiting Wears Valley, Townsend, and various park viewpoints, it offers a chance to learn about local ecology and culture. Reviewers appreciate the deep knowledge of the guide Justin, especially how he shares personal stories along with natural facts. The tour is kid-friendly and includes round-trip transportation, making it suitable for families wanting to see the vivid leaves.
Bottom Line: A scenic, educational tour ideal for leaf-peepers and families seeking a manageable, informative mountain experience.
14. Helicopter Ride in Smoky Mountain Sevierville Douglas Lake Tour
A shorter but still stunning 7-12 minute flight, this Douglas Lake helicopter tour provides a quick glimpse of the lake’s beauty and surrounding scenery. It’s perfect for those who want an aerial perspective without committing to a longer flight. Reviewers mention how “wonderful” the views are and how easy the staff makes it. It’s suitable for travelers seeking a brief but memorable sky-high experience.
Bottom Line: An accessible, brief helicopter tour providing memorable views, great for a quick scenic overview.
15. Helicopter Ride in Smoky Mountain Sevierville Mountain Jumper
This 14-19 minute Mountain Jumper tour features panoramic views over Mount LeConte, Cove Mountain, and Bluff Mountain. It’s considered the ultimate mountain tour, offering breathtaking vistas of the highest peaks and lush valleys. Reviewers love how “spectacular” the scenery is, and the proximity to iconic peaks makes it a favorite for mountain lovers. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a longer, more immersive helicopter experience.
Bottom Line: A longer, scenic helicopter ride focusing on mountain vistas, perfect for those wanting to see the range’s highlights from above.
16. Sevierville: Smoky Mountain Helicopter Tour
This flexible tour offers 5 to 25 minutes of flight time, covering Douglas Lake, Pigeon Forge, and Clingmans Dome. At around $50 per person, it’s an affordable way to see multiple sights with panoramic views of the biodiverse Smoky Mountains. Reviewers highlight the “breathtaking” scenery and the ease of booking, making it a solid choice for a quick but comprehensive aerial experience.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, flexible helicopter tour suitable for first-timers and those short on time, offering views of key park landmarks.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting among these options, think about your budget, time available, and interest. If you’re short on time but want a quick thrill, a helicopter tour or short helicopter ride is perfect. For families or those who prefer a relaxed, educational experience, the Cades Cove Bus Tour or Tree of Many Colors fall tour may be better suited. Adventure enthusiasts should consider ziplining or the Ridge Runner.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular helicopter rides. Consider the season—autumn foliage creates unforgettable scenery, while summer offers lush greenery. Matching your interests with the right tour ensures a memorable Sevierville experience.
Sevierville’s variety of tours makes it easy to craft a customized adventure, whether you’re seeking adrenaline, history, or spectacular views. From quick, stunning helicopter flights to immersive cultural tours, there’s something here for every traveler. For those wanting a taste of everything, booking early ensures you don’t miss out on the best experiences. Now, get planning your Smoky Mountain adventure — the mountains are waiting.