Duration
2-4 hours (longer if you get addicted to bird interactions like we do)
Best For
Bird lovers and nature enthusiasts • Families with children who love animals • Couples looking for a unique outdoor experience
Pro Tip
Bring plenty of quarters for the seed machines - the birds go crazy for the seeds and it makes for amazing photo opportunities when they perch all over you.
About Parrot Mountain and Gardens
Looking for something uniquely different in Pigeon Forge? Parrot Mountain and Gardens offers an immersive 4-acre sanctuary where hundreds of tropical birds become your personal companions for the afternoon. Unlike typical attractions where you just look through glass, here you can actually hold and feed exotic parrots while learning their rescue stories from passionate staff members.
The experience starts in the main garden area, where peacocks roam freely among winding paths and waterfalls. The highlight for many visitors is the lory feeding station, where colorful parrots perch right on your arms to sip nectar. Families especially love the baby bird nursery, offering supervised opportunities to hold young parrots and cockatiels.
Plan for 3-4 hours to fully explore the grounds and interact with the various bird species. The pathways include some steep sections, so wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for light hiking. While the admission price runs higher than some Pigeon Forge attractions, the hands-on animal encounters and educational value make it worthwhile for visitors seeking more than standard tourist fare.
The gardens themselves provide a peaceful backdrop with mature landscaping and shaded rest areas. Keep your camera ready - between the tropical birds, wandering peacocks, and scenic garden views, photo opportunities abound. Kids particularly enjoy the interactive elements, while adults appreciate the quiet moments watching exotic birds soar overhead in the open-air sections.
Remember that this is an outdoor attraction, so check the weather and bring water, especially during summer months. The birds are most active in the morning hours, making early visits ideal for maximum interaction.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Lory Aviary Feeding Experience
These rainbow-colored birds will cover you from head to toe when you enter with nectar cups. They're incredibly social and will perch on your arms, shoulders, and even your head while drinking. It's like being in a living rainbow.
Baby Bird Nursery
This is where the magic happens - you can hold and cuddle baby parrots, cockatiels, and other young birds. Some are available for adoption if you're serious about bird ownership. The staff helps you interact safely with these adorable babies.
Secret Garden Free-Flight Area
Toucans, hornbills, and other exotic birds fly freely overhead in this enclosed garden space. It feels like stepping into a tropical rainforest, complete with waterfalls and lush plants. The birds might land near you if you're patient.
Interactive Perch Areas
Throughout the gardens, birds on open perches will step onto your arm or shoulder when offered seeds. Each bird has its own personality - some are chatty, others are cuddly, and a few are total show-offs.
Landscaped Garden Trails
The 4-acre property includes beautiful waterfalls, peacocks roaming freely, and a prayer garden with inspirational Bible verses. Even non-bird people love the peaceful garden setting with mountain views.
Educational Golf Cart Tours
The guides know every bird's rescue story and can share fascinating details about each species. This is especially great if the steep paths are challenging, and honestly, the stories make the experience even more meaningful.
Know Before You Go
- Parking is available on-site, with golf cart pickup available from the lot if needed
- Wear sturdy walking shoes - the paved paths have some steep slopes throughout the gardens
- Bring quarters for seed machines and cash for nectar cups - credit cards accepted for admission
- Closed December through February, and weather can affect bird activity on very hot days
- Golf cart tours available for those with mobility issues - call ahead or from parking lot
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Parrot Mountain and Gardens
Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Parrot Mountain and Gardens?
Parrot Mountain is open March through November, but they close during winter months (December-February). We recommend calling ahead for exact daily hours since they can vary by season.
How much does Parrot Mountain and Gardens cost?
Admission is $29.95 for adults (11+), $19.95 for kids (2-10), and $27.95 for seniors (65+). You'll want extra cash for nectar cups and quarters for seed machines - budget around $10-15 extra per person for the full experience.
Do I need reservations for Parrot Mountain and Gardens?
No reservations needed for regular admission, but if you want the golf cart tour (highly recommended for steep paths), call ahead a day or two. Groups of 35+ do need advance reservations for discounted rates.
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