Not many places on Earth really have it all, but Pigeon Forge may just be one of them. The perfect combination of a tourist mecca and down-home Tennessee vibes, this destination is ideal for the whole family, from the smallest babe to the most venerable great-grandparent. If you’re looking for an all-American getaway with mouthwatering bakeries, this is it.
Today, this area celebrates the beauty of nature (most notably the glorious Blue Ridge Mountains) as well as Appalachian culture, and good food. What could be a better statement of a place’s culture than its restaurants and bakeries?
If you’re headed to Pigeon Forge, this list of its top 10 bakeries is a must-read:
1. The Grist Mill
2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(800) 365-5996
If you’re a fan of cinnamon, then look no further than The Grist Mill in Dollywood. The classic theme park, named after the immortal Dolly Parton, features a full-sized replica of an old-fashioned working mill. There, you can get amazing cookies and drinks, but they’re most famous for their cinnamon bread. A gloriously sweet treat, you can watch it made right before your eyes in giant, crowd-pleasing batches. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind Pigeon Forge treat.
2. Cinnaholic
2655 Teaster Ln #220, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 286-5527
Still haven’t had enough cinnamon in your life? Luckily, Cinnaholic is here to rescue you. Unlike other cinnamon buns, the ones at Cinnaholic let you live out your wildest sugar fantasies, with a huge variety of frostings and toppings. Best of all, they’re 100 percent vegan, so if you’ve got any strict eaters in your group, there’s no need to miss out on sweet treats.
3. Gigi’s Cupcakes
2430 Teaster Ln #103, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 366-1258
Although it’s a chain, Gigi’s Cupcakes doesn’t taste like it. They offer a spectacular assortment of cupcake flavors, as well as mini cupcakes, cheesecakes, cookies, and gluten-free options. You can mix and match cupcakes to pick out your own assortment or pick up a premade variety box. That’s called sampling fun for the whole family!
4. Spotlight Bakery
2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(800) 365-5996
We can’t get enough Dollywood. Seriously, it’s like half the reason people even go to Pigeon Forge, so obviously we have to explore more of their amazing eateries. One of our favorites is Spotlight Bakery, with its adorably old-fashioned storefront and charming counter display. You’ll feel you’ve stepped straight into a bakery from Mark Twain’s time, with giant cookies, delicious muffins, assorted pastries, croissants, and more.
5. Byrd’s Famous Cookies
130/131 The Island Dr Suite 4102, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 366-0151
Oh, more cookies, you say? No problem. Byrd’s Famous Cookies got its name for a good reason: it makes truly delicious, fame-worthy confections for all comers. It’s located on The Island at Pigeon Forge, which hosts a range of yummy places to eat as well as a Ferris wheel, hotel, and more. If you’re looking for a night to remember, head to The Island and enjoy some good, clean fun accompanied by cookies in a range of flavors, colors, toppings, and sizes.
6. Krispy Kreme
4074 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 378-7373
Those who think Krispy Kreme isn’t a “real” bakery have never tried their fresh donuts. This establishment earned its reputation as a household name because the goodies it produces are just so dang good. For the best experience, go early in the morning when its donuts are piping hot. That said, it’s delicious any time of day or night and is a great way to cap off a day of fun. You might want to plan ahead for breakfast and get a full dozen!
7. Great American Cookies
3676 Parkway #2, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 908-0276
Here’s another great option for anyone planning a to-do. Pigeon Forge is so much fun that lots of people choose to enjoy honeymoons, anniversaries, kids’ birthday parties, and family reunions here, in which case you’re going to need a cake to celebrate … or will you? If you’re looking for something a little different, you might want to try a cookie cake, one of the Great American Cookies’ specialties. This delicious confection takes a giant cookie and uses frosting to create beautiful messages and pictures, perfect for sweetaholics of any age. Of course, you can also find regular-sized cookies!
8. The Apple Valley Creamery and Bake Shop
230 Apple Valley Rd, Sevierville, TN 37862
(865) 429-4113
If you love an old-fashioned ice cream parlor, look no further than the Apple Valley Creamery and Bake Shop. Nestled at the foot of the Smoky Mountain Range, its timeless charm incorporates fresh baked goods, handmade ice cream, sweetbreads, and more. This destination is actually outside Pigeon Forge, located in Sevierville, but it’s so delicious it’s worth a mention. While you’re there, make sure to sample some of their seasonal bread, sorbets, and custom cakes.
9. Funnel Cake Factory
3357 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 453-3623
If you haven’t had a funnel cake, then you haven’t truly lived. This classically southern confection is the lovechild of a donut and a pancake is made by deep-frying dough and sprinkling it with powdered sugar. Its lacy crispness comes from the thing rings of batter that make up the larger cake, and it’s no wonder it’s a fan favorite at festivals and fairs. However, you can get funnel cakes year-round at the beloved establishment The Funnel Cake Factory. There, you can also enjoy sausages, nuts, kettle corn, and hot fudge cakes.
10. Cakes by Bakin’ Bishop
Locals will tell you that Cakes by Bakin’ Bishop is a true favorite. For one thing, they offer amazing custom cakes – perfect for anyone who’s enjoying a family reunion, birthday party, or wedding in the Pigeon Forge area. They also let you mix and match cupcake and frosting flavors, so you can design your dream cupcake. Not a cake fan? No problem: they also offer cookies, brownies, and cinnamon rolls.
Now that you’re ready to check out some of the yummiest bakeries in the Pigeon Forge area, make note of these destinations and head out to live your best life today!