If you’re on a family vacation in Pigeon Forge, you’ve got to check out Goats on the Roof! This unique attraction has – as the name suggests – goats grazing on the roof!
Yes, that’s right, goats perch on the roof of this attraction for all of Pigeon Forge to see.
They’re a sight to behold – but there’s so much more to do here too. This article will detail everything you need to know about Goats on the Roof in Pigeon Forge!
What is the Deal With the Goats in Pigeon Forge?
Everyone who spends time in Pigeon Forge knows about the Goats on the Roof. They’re just something that are there. The goats live and graze on the roof of the bright yellow building, and they’re one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pigeon Forge.
But what is the actual story behind it? Why are the goats on the roof anyway?
Well, it dates back more than 50 years to a restaurant in Wisconsin. Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant had a sodded roof, and the goats-on-the-roof tradition began there in the 1970s after a goat was placed on the grass roof and quickly became a guest favorite.
They proved to be incredibly popular, with people coming from far and wide to see this curious phenomenon. But, of course, most of them visited the restaurant too!
Goats on the Roof in Pigeon Forge was inspired by Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant, so the owners contacted them to see if they would mind sharing the idea. A joint licensing agreement was created. So nowadays, whether you’re in Wisconsin or Tennessee, you can enjoy the goats on the roof phenomenon.
Things to do at Goats on the Roof in Pigeon Forge
Goats on the Roof isn’t just one attraction – there are loads to visit, and there’s something for everyone here! Of course, the attraction is most notable for the goats on the roof, which are viewable from the parking lot, and you can visit for free. But there are so many other things to do here, including the coaster, gem mining and gift shops.
1. See the Goats on the Roof
Of course, the first thing you need to do when you arrive is to see the goats on the roof! Look out for the yellow building with goats on the top. You can either see them from the car park or enter the gift shop to see them up close.
How to Feed the Goats?
The best way to see the goats is to go through the gift shop. Here, you can purchase goat chow. Ask about the current cup and refill options before you buy – if you get a souvenir cup, you can take it home with you and use it as a fun keepsake!
Once you’ve purchased your cup and it’s full of feed, place it on the goat cycle, where the goat feed is transported to the roof. You use the goat cycle by sitting on the bicycle and pedaling until the feed reaches the roof. You’ll see the goats chowing down on their goat feed above you!
The Best Place to See the Goats
The best place to see the goats is from the viewing platform, just up the stairs from the gift shop.
Here, you see their furry faces up close. Watch them eat and wave at them as they bleat! They are the most adorable creatures!
It’s air-conditioned and free to enter. At Goats on the Roof, you only need to pay for the attractions that you visit.
2. Take a Ride on the Goats on the Roof Coaster
Next, it’s time to take to the rollercoaster! Walk to the right of the building and head to the kiosk where you can purchase tickets.
There are many rollercoasters in Pigeon Forge, but with exhilarating speeds and beautiful scenery, the Goats on the Roof coaster is one of the best.
The Goats on the Roof coaster generally operates year-round, but hours and weather-related operations can vary.
The coaster extends for nearly a mile and reaches heart-racing speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. However, you’ll have control of the brake, so if you want to take it slowly, you can do that too.
As well as an adrenaline rush, the Goats on the Roof coaster offers a scenic journey through a beautiful alpine setting. It takes its inspiration from the beautiful Wisconsin scenery by the Great Lakes area, which is where the original goats-on-the-roof tradition began.
Each cart can take one or two people, so you can decide whether you’d like to fly around the coaster solo or with somebody. There are a few regulations, but generally all riders should be at least three, and anyone in charge of a cart with another person should be 16 or over.
Because hours can vary by season, day, and weather, check the current schedule if the coaster is a must-do.
It operates in many weather conditions, but severe weather or maintenance can affect availability. There’s even the opportunity to have a photo taken of you riding the rollercoaster, which you can purchase at the end.
Restrictions for Riding the Coaster
There are a few restrictions for riding the coaster. Make sure that you adhere to the following:
- The person who controls the slide must be 54 inches tall or more.
- If somebody is driving with another passenger, they must be at least 16 years old.
- Passengers should be at least 3 years old and 38 inches tall.
- The weight limit is 330 pounds in wet conditions and 375 when it’s dry.
3. Try Out Gem Mining at Goats on the Roof
If you’re seeking something totally unique to do in Pigeon Forge, why not go gem mining? You’ll use a sieve to sift through a bucket of soil, seeking rare gems like emeralds, rubies and sapphires. This is how people found treasure in the historic American west!
You’ll learn a little about American history and potentially find a beautiful treasure to take home with you by going gem mining. It’s the perfect Pigeon Forge family-friendly attraction!
The gem mining is set in an open air space, which is ideal for the summer. However, it’s covered, so you’re protected from any rain or the sun’s rays.
How Much is Gem Mining at Goats on the Roof?
Gem mining prices are typically based on the bucket or package you choose. Check the posted prices when you arrive, since bucket options and pricing can change.
4. Shopping at Goats on the Roof
There are two shops at Goats on the Roof – so it’s the perfect place to purchase some souvenirs to remind you of the area!
The Goat Store
The Goat Store is a two-level store where you can purchase all sorts of items that will remind you of your trip. Whether you want to buy matching t-shirts for all the family, soft toys for the kids or local food items you’ll find it here. Look out for locally made candy and Amish jellies. You’ll find beautiful clothes made by local businesses on the top floor.
Sweet Store
There’s also a sweet store on site at Goats on the Roof. Feast on delectable fudge, moist cookies, tantalising ice cream and sumptuous chocolates. The desserts are all homemade and delicious!
5. More Retail Therapy at Parkway Store
The Parkway Store is another store that is owned by the Goats on the Roof company and is situated in the town.
They sell similar products to the Goat Store on Wears Valley Road. It’s worth visiting here if you’re in the center of Pigeon Forge and want to pick up some last-minute souvenirs before heading home.
Where is Goats on the Roof in Pigeon Forge?
Goats on the Roof is located at 1341 Wears Valley Road in Pigeon Forge. Drive from Pigeon Forge toward the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Gatlinburg. Then, turn right at light #3. This is Wears Valley Road.
Drive around 2.5 miles down the road. There are lots of rollercoasters on this road, but Goats on the Roof is the best – so make sure that you keep driving until you get there!
When you get there, watch out for the yellow building and look up. You’ll see goats grazing on the roof – if you can’t see them, then you’re not at Goats on the Roof!
Goats on the Roof Opening Hours
Goats on the Roof is generally open year-round, with hours that can vary by season, day, attraction, and weather. Before visiting – especially in winter, late evening, or bad weather – check the official website or call 865.366.7337 to confirm current opening and closing times!
Goats on the Roof Pigeon Forge Prices
The prices vary depending on what attractions you do. Entry to the whole complex is free, but goat feed, gem mining, and coaster tickets are priced separately. Gem mining pricing depends on the bucket or package you choose, and coaster pricing can vary by rider type and ticket option. This is part of the beauty of going to Goats on the Roof though – you can pick and choose the attractions that interest you, and only pay for these!
You can typically buy tickets and activity options at the attraction, and you can check the official website or call 865.366.7337 for current rates and availability before you go.
Final Words
If you’d like to visit a family-friendly attraction in Pigeon Forge, Goats on the Roof is an incredible place to visit! It’s a one-of-a-kind, quirky attraction with animals to see, a rollercoaster to soar down, local produce to buy, and gem mining to sample. Whether you’re eight or eighty, you’ll adore this Pigeon Forge attraction!