A lot of people come here for the first time by chance and end up making it part of their trip every time they return. The area is easy to walk through, but it can get busy—especially on weekends or during holidays. Still, it manages to keep a laid-back atmosphere with its mix of history, good food, and local flavor.
Whether you’re coming with your family, exploring on your own, or just want to know what all the hype is about, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Old Mill: where to park, what to do, and what to expect—especially if you’re visiting during a busy time of year.
History of The Old Mill
The Old Mill has been around since 1830, making it one of the oldest operating gristmills in the country. It was built by Isaac Love, who also helped establish the iron forge that gave Pigeon Forge its name. Back then, the mill was powered by the Little Pigeon River and used to grind corn and wheat for local farmers.
Over time, it became more than just a mill. In the mid-1800s, it added a sawmill and even played a role during the Civil War. The second floor was used to make uniforms for Union soldiers, and the third floor served as a makeshift hospital.
By the early 1900s, the Old Mill was generating electricity for the town before modern utilities came in. Once tourism started growing after the Great Smoky Mountains National Park opened in the 1930s, the mill became a key attraction.
Today, it’s still a working mill. They grind grains on-site and use them in the nearby restaurants and stores. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the most photographed spots in Pigeon Forge.
You can take a guided tour to see the original equipment and learn how they still grind grain the old-fashioned way. Tours run every 30 minutes:
- Tuesday to Friday: 3 PM to 7 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM to 7 PM
Tickets are sold inside the Old Mill General Store the day of your visit. - Cost: $8 for ages 11+, $4 for ages 6–10, and free for kids 5 and under.
- Groups of 4 or more get $1 off per ticket. Tours are limited to 10 people at a time.
If you’re interested in how things used to be made—from flour to candy to pottery—it’s a solid experience that gives you some context before exploring the rest of the square.
Click here for open days and times.
Getting to The Old Mill
The Old Mill is located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, just off the main Parkway at 175 Old Mill Ave, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. It’s a central stop that’s easy to access from most cabins, especially if you’re staying near Dollywood or Patriot Park.
As of May 2025, the Old Mill bridge is under construction, which may affect your normal route into the square. Follow posted signs or check The Old Mill website for alternate directions before you go.
Parking Info
- Free parking is available in front of the Old Mill shops and restaurants.
- If you’re visiting the Pottery House Café, you’ll find more parking via Butler Street, right off Old Mill Ave.
- Patriot Park (right next to the square) also has free parking and space to walk around.
- Keep in mind: It gets busy on weekends and holidays, so try to arrive early or closer to closing time.
- Parking areas are monitored, but always keep valuables with you or out of sight.
Pigeon Forge Trolley
You can skip driving altogether by using the Pigeon Forge Trolley, which stops right at Patriot Park. It’s the easiest way to explore the area without dealing with traffic or finding a spot.
What to Do at The Old Mill
Even if you only have an hour or two, there’s plenty to explore within Old Mill Square and the nearby shops. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll find
1. The Old Mill Restaurant
The centerpiece of it all. The Old Mill Restaurant is known for its classic Southern cooking and large, family-style portions. The menu includes comfort food staples like fried chicken, pot roast, chicken and dumplings, and slow-cooked green beans—all made with ingredients like cornmeal and flour ground just steps away at the historic mill.
Guests start their meal with freshly made corn fritters and homemade soup or salad. Every entrée comes with hearty sides, so you’ll never leave hungry. For dessert, expect traditional picks like pecan pie, cobbler, or banana pudding.
The Old Mill menu focuses on scratch-made meals using local recipes that have been passed down for generations. It’s a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so plan ahead—there’s often a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends and holidays.
If you’re curious about pricing or meal options, you can view their full menu online before your visit.
2. Pottery House Café & Grille
Right across from the Old Mill, this cozy café has a more laid-back vibe and beautiful outdoor seating. It’s known for fresh-baked breads and lunch favorites.
3. Old Mill Creamery
Grab a scoop or two of homemade ice cream. The flavors rotate, and they use ingredients from other Old Mill shops in their desserts.
4. Old Mill Candy Kitchen
This shop makes taffy, fudge, and dipped treats in-house. You can watch candy being made through the window when it’s running.
5. Pigeon River Pottery (Artisan Pottery)
This store sells hand-thrown pottery made by artists on site. If you’re lucky, you might catch someone working on a wheel.
6. Iron Mountain Metal Craft
Just behind the main shops, this blacksmith shop offers demos where you can see metal being forged by hand. Even the exterior has a rustic look worth checking out.
7. Old Forge Distillery
Located in Old Forge Plaza, this distillery sells moonshine and whiskey made from grains ground at the mill. It’s also one of the better-designed storefronts for photos.
What to Expect at The Old Mill
The Old Mill area is compact but busy. On weekdays, especially in the mornings, it’s pretty quiet. But by lunchtime or on weekends, it fills up quickly—especially around the restaurants, the ice cream shop, and the General Store. Expect crowds during peak travel times, like holidays or spring break.
One of the main stops here is the Old Mill General Store, located right next to the mill. It’s one of the most visited shops in Pigeon Forge, selling baking mixes, preserves, kitchen tools, and Southern-style goods made from grains ground at the mill itself. From soup samplers and flours to pottery and Smoky Mountain souvenirs, most of their products are also available online.
Click here to shop Old Mill products online.
They also offer Old Mill gift cards, which can be used at the General Store, Pottery House Café, or the main restaurant—but not online. Gift cards never expire, come in multiple dollar amounts, and can be picked up or shipped. For custom amounts or local pickup, guests can call customer service directly.
Click here to purchase an Old Mill gift card.
Parking is free and available in front of the square, with more spots at Patriot Park just a short walk away. Keep in mind that the Old Mill bridge is currently under construction as of May 2025, so you may need to follow detour signs depending on where you’re coming from.
Click here for alternative routes
The shops are all within walking distance. Some buildings are more eye-catching than others, but even the low-key storefronts are worth checking out. A few spots—like the distillery and blacksmith shop—stand out right away, while others like the candle shop and gift stores are tucked into quieter corners nearby.
You don’t need a full day to enjoy the Old Mill, but if you’re eating, shopping, and walking through the park, plan for at least an hour or two.
Why Visit the Old Mill + Local Tips
The Old Mill is one of the most popular places to visit in Pigeon Forge—for both first-timers and returning visitors. It’s walkable, historic, and packed with locally made food, pottery, and gifts. Whether you’re here for a full Southern meal, a quick ice cream stop, or a bit of shopping, there’s something for almost every kind of traveler.
While the Old Mill is open year-round, some times are better than others if you want to avoid heavy crowds. Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends, and mornings tend to be less crowded than lunch or dinner hours. Spring and fall are especially nice for walking around and seeing seasonal decor, but if you’re visiting during a holiday or peak travel season, expect lines and limited parking.
Local Tip: Visit during the off-season (January through early March or late August to early September) if you want a quieter experience.
The Old Mill also hosts seasonal events and activities, like spring plant sales, fall festivals, and holiday specials. If you’re planning a visit, check their events calendar in advance to see what’s happening during your stay.
And if you don’t want to deal with traffic or finding parking, you can always hop on the Pigeon Forge Trolley, which stops at Patriot Park right next to the Old Mill.
Cabins Near The Old Mill
If you’re planning to stay nearby, there are several cabins within a short drive of The Old Mill and Patriot Park. Whether you’re looking for a secluded escape or something close to all the action, you’ll find options that offer easy access to shopping, dining, and the Great Smoky Mountains. Many cabins include full kitchens, private decks, and mountain views—ideal for couples, families, or small groups.
- 4.7
- 5
- 4.8
- 4.9
More Pigeon Forge Attractions
Make the most of your Pigeon Forge visit by checking out these nearby attractions, all just a short drive from The Old Mill:
Dollywood: One of Tennessee’s top attractions, Dollywood combines thrill rides, live music, local crafts, and seasonal festivals in a family-friendly theme park.
Goats on the Roof: A quirky roadside stop where real goats roam the rooftop. Shop for candy, gifts, and try the alpine coaster on site.
The Island in Pigeon Forge: A lively entertainment complex with shopping, restaurants, a giant Ferris wheel, and nightly fountain shows.
Dig’n Zone Theme Park: A construction-themed park where kids and adults can operate real heavy machinery in a safe, hands-on environment.
