Gatlinburg / Pigeon Forge

We’re ready to personalize
a trip to meet your unique goals

Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains

Nestled at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer a dynamic blend of natural wonder, Appalachian heritage, and hands-on learning. From mountain ecology and environmental science to live entertainment and regional arts, this destination turns the outdoors into an unforgettable classroom.

Customize your trip to enhance the goals of your program:

Educational

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge provide rich opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world exploration. Students can study biodiversity in one of the most visited national parks in the country, learn about Appalachian history and culture, and explore STEM concepts through interactive attractions and museums. With its mix of science, history, and creative arts, the Smoky Mountains region inspires curiosity and discovery at every turn.

TRiO Educational Programs

The welcoming, small-town setting of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge creates a supportive environment for TRIO students to build confidence and explore future pathways. Groups can visit nearby colleges such as the University of Tennessee, participate in leadership and team-building experiences in the Great Smoky Mountains, and engage in discussions about environmental careers, hospitality, and tourism industries that shape the region’s economy. Each experience encourages personal growth, resilience, and a sense of possibility.

Performing Arts (Band, Choir, and Orchestra)

Perform in the heart of Old Québec, where centuries-old architecture creates a breathtaking backdrop for music. Students may showcase their talents in community venues, historic churches, or festivals that celebrate international collaboration. Between performances, explore the city’s artistic legacy, from street performers at Place Royale to the elegant concert halls that make Québec a hub of cultural expression and French-Canadian artistry.

Theatre & Dance

Pigeon Forge is known for its vibrant live show scene, offering students the chance to experience professional productions that blend music, dance, storytelling, and stagecraft. Groups may participate in performance clinics, theater workshops, or dance masterclasses while also attending live shows that highlight the region’s rich entertainment heritage.

Welcome to Our Family

Gerber Tours is a family-owned and operated company, founded by a New York City educator who believed travel should be an extension of the classroom.

Our team is a close-knit group of educators, performers, and travel enthusiasts who care deeply about the trips we create. When you travel with Gerber, you’re part of our family, and we’re with you every step of the way.

What’s Included

Pre-trip access to our team of travel experts for complete itinerary planning.

Customized materials to help communicate tour details to students, parents, and chaperones.

Highly experienced, student-friendly Tour Guides, and much more!

Unique Experiences

EXPLORE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

Discover one of America’s most biodiverse national parks through guided hikes, ranger programs, and environmental education experiences. Students learn about mountain ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and conservation in a breathtaking natural setting.

EXPERIENCE APPALACHIAN ARTS & CRAFTS COMMUNITY

Visit the nation’s largest group of independent artisans, where students can meet local craftspeople and see traditional skills like pottery, woodworking, and weaving in action. It’s a hands-on look at the cultural heritage that defines the Smoky Mountains.

DISCOVER THE TITANIC MUSEUM ATTRACTION

Step aboard a detailed recreation of the RMS Titanic and explore immersive exhibits that combine history, engineering, and personal storytelling. This interactive experience brings early 20th-century history to life in a powerful and engaging way.

What people are saying

Carl, Teacher

39 years with Gerber Tours, they just keep getting better and better.  One of the best companies I have ever worked with.

Jody, High School Teacher

Gerber Tours made our Performing Arts trip an overwhelming success.  We can’t wait to work with you again.  Outstanding service!

Kelly, Director

Gerber Tours went above and beyond to give my students wonderful life-long memories.

Diana, Principal

This is the best tour company you should use for any educational trip.  The best tour company EVER!

Carl, 8th Grade Teacher

Gerber Tours is one of the best companies with which I have ever done business! I take my students on an 8th grade trip to Washington DC each year. They are totally dependable and trustworthy and have always delivered on their promises. I have taken our school to the East Coast with Gerber for 42 years and have never been disappointed. I highly recommend Gerber Tours for all you need in group student travel.

Gail, 6th Grade Teacher

For many years, our school district has worked with Gerber Tours to plan and take approximately 90 rising 6th graders to Washington, D.C. I highly recommend Gerber Tours.

Morgan, 12th Grade Teacher

We use Gerber for our senior trip every year and are always satisfied with the tour and tour guides. Mary Werther is a joy to work with. We also LOVE Byron B. in NYC!  We love that we can tailor the tour to our needs and find new and interesting things to see/do. We also love the price and the great deals you can get us. Thank you again for another great senior trip!