Heading to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg? We’ve got you covered! It’s our favorite place to visit every fall! There’s so much to do and see! Every time we go, we do something different. This last visit gave us a chance to visit the Alcatraz East Crime Museum. 

This little gem was a great opportunity to get out of the heat and learn some history. Everything from Bonnie and Clyde to understanding current forensic science is in this multi story museum. And yes, like every where we visit, there’s always something for kids! 

In the forensic lab, everything is hands on but in a way for the younger crowd to see and enjoy. There’s a Junior Detectives option as you tour the museum with things like meeting McGruff the crime stopping pup, a jewel heist, a scavenger hunt, and legends of the old west. There’s also information for kids about dealing with bulling, cyber bullying and internet etiquette and safety which explains all these crucial issues on their level. 

While there, we got to try to “walk the line” with drunk googles, learn about Watergate and see the Kennedy Case Files. Keep in mind, some exhibits are temporary and may change by the time you get there. We got to the OJ SUV, learn about Al Capone, and, most close to home for us, see photos of 9/11 and the continued research regarding terrorist crime. 

The museum is open from 10am to 10pm. Plan to be there at least a few hours to get to read a majority of the exhibits there. They did offer a military discount. Kids are considered ages 8 to 12 and under 12 is free. Definitely a staple in the area that I highly recommend!