Pigeon Forge: Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour

If you’re looking to combine a taste of local spirits with some of Tennessee’s most beautiful scenery, the Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour might just be your ticket. This 3-hour adventure is tailored for those who want to relax, sample regional drinks, and enjoy the mountain views without the hassle of driving. It’s designed to be safe, fun, and packed with authentic flavors, making it especially appealing for groups, couples, or even solo travelers seeking a lively, memorable experience.

What we really love about this tour is its focus on local, small-scale distilleries and wineries—places you might not stumble upon on your own. Plus, the knowledge and friendliness of the guides shine through, making each stop more than just a tasting; it’s a story shared over drinks and mountain vistas. On the downside, some reviewers mention that the driver could be a bit more engaging, perhaps playing music or sharing more local jokes, but that’s a minor quibble in an overall charming experience.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate small-group experiences and want to enjoy regional spirits in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re celebrating a bachelor party, a romantic getaway, or just want a taste of the Smokies’ spirit, this cruise offers a laid-back, enjoyable way to spend part of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic local spirits: Four stops focusing on moonshine, whiskey, beer, and wine, showcasing Tennessee’s craft scene.
• Stress-free experience: A designated driver takes care of transportation, so you can relax and enjoy.
• Stunning scenery: Expect picturesque mountain views along the route, ideal for photos and peaceful moments.
• Variety of tastings: Each stop offers a different beverage experience, from traditional moonshine to wines and spirits made with regional roots.
• Personalized guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides make the experience lively, informative, and tailored to your group.
• Flexible for groups: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, large groups, and celebrations like bachelor/bachelorette parties.

This tour offers an easygoing, guided sampling journey through some of the most intriguing local spots around Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, or Wears Valley—depending on the season. The vehicle is comfortable and designed to give you room to relax, chat, and take in the sights as your guide navigates the scenic mountain roads. Starting at the well-known Bigfoot Philly Cheesesteaks, the tour includes several hidden gems—small distilleries, wineries, and local spirit makers—that aren’t on the mainstream tourist map.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with a 15-minute pickup at the meeting point, where you’ll see the clearly marked van parked conveniently outside the popular Philly cheesesteak joint. From there, the route includes multiple stops:

• First stop: A hidden gem spirits distillery, where you’ll spend about 25 minutes sampling local moonshine or other spirits rooted in regional tradition. These are places that pride themselves on heritage, with recipes passed down through generations.

• Second stop: A nearby winery, offering about 25 minutes of wine tasting. Here, you’ll sample regional wines that pair beautifully with the mountain scenery.

• Third stop: A whiskey distillery with another 25-minute tasting session, showcasing Tennessee’s love for this classic spirit.

• Subsequent stops: Additional hidden gem spirits and spirits-focused spots, each about 25 minutes long, giving you plenty of time to savor the flavors and ask questions.

Throughout the tour, the vehicle drives along scenic mountain roads, with panoramic views that are perfect for photos and soaking in the mountain charm. The total duration is about 3 hours, and the return is directly back to the starting point.

The Tastings

You’ll experience a variety of beverages, from moonshine to whiskey, local beers, and wines, depending on the season. Each spot offers a different flavor profile, allowing you to taste the craftsmanship that makes the Smoky Mountains special. The guides are on hand at each stop to ensure the experience is seamless and to share interesting stories about each location.

The Guides and Atmosphere

Guests consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience memorable with their stories and local insights. One guest noted that their guide, Dallas, tailored the experience to their interests and was full of stories, making the afternoon feel personalized and engaging. Others mention the guides’ knack for sharing local history and humor, though some wish that the driver could be a bit more lively—perhaps by playing music or telling hillbilly jokes to enhance the fun atmosphere.

Scenic and Authentic

The highlight of the tour is the combination of drinks and scenery. You’re not just tasting spirits; you’re doing so in the midst of rolling hills and mountain vistas, creating a memorable backdrop. Guests have commented on how the views add to the experience of savoring regional flavors, making it perfect for those who love both nature and good drinks.

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Is It Worth the Price?

The tour costs are reasonable considering the small-group setting, multiple tastings, and the expert guides. While some might view it as a bit of a splurge, the value comes from accessing locally owned establishments rather than commercialized spots, and the relaxed, worry-free environment. The all-inclusive nature—with transportation, tastings, and guide—means you won’t have to worry about planning or driving, which adds to the overall value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for adventurous spirits who enjoy authentic local flavors and scenic drives. It’s ideal for groups celebrating special occasions, like bachelor or bachelorette parties, as well as solo travelers or couples looking for a relaxed, fun way to spend an afternoon. If you’re interested in learning about regional spirits, or simply want a worry-free way to enjoy Tennessee’s craft scene while taking in mountain views, this tour hits the mark.

The Hillbilly Booze Cruise offers a fun, laid-back way to explore the Smoky Mountains’ spirit scene without the stress of driving. The combination of authentic, locally owned distilleries, friendly guides, and breathtaking scenery makes it a memorable addition to any trip to Pigeon Forge or the surrounding area. It’s perfect for those who value genuine experiences, flavorful tastings, and scenic drives.

While it may not be the wildest night out, it’s certainly a delightful, authentic taste of mountain life and Tennessee craft. The personalized touches from guides and the beautiful views ensure that you’ll leave with more than just drinks in your belly—you’ll take home stories, photos, and a better understanding of the region’s rich spirit-making traditions.

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, a designated driver takes you to all the tasting stops, so you can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about driving.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience runs for about 3 hours, including transportation and tastings at multiple locations.

Can I join as a solo traveler? Absolutely. The tour welcomes solo travelers, couples, and groups of all sizes, making it a flexible option for many.

What beverages will I taste? You’ll sample moonshine, whiskey, local beers, and wines, depending on the season and the stops on your particular tour.

Are the stops all in Pigeon Forge? Not necessarily. The stops can be in Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, or Wears Valley, based on the season, but all are easily accessible and scenic.

Is this experience suitable for children or pregnant women? No, the tour involves tasting alcohol and is not suitable for pregnant women or children.

The Hillbilly Booze Cruise offers a memorable, authentic taste of the Smoky Mountains’ craft scene, combined with scenic beauty and friendly storytelling. Whether you’re celebrating or simply seeking a relaxed way to explore the region, this tour provides genuine value and fun in a beautifully relaxed setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby