South of the Rhythmic hum of Pigeon Forge lies Sky Pirates of Mermaid Bay, a boundary-pushing mini-golf attraction that blends theatrical storytelling with vibrant gameplay. Billed as the world’s first “Epic Golf Adventure”, it’s an interactive experience featuring both indoor and rooftop courses, where players become part of a whimsical tale involving a battle between sky pirates and mermaid guardians
This isn’t your typical putt-putt setup. The attraction envelopes visitors in a theatrical world: live performers, props, narration, and even costume dress-up stations heighten the immersiveness. You’re not just sinking putts—you’re embarking on a magical quest that unfolds one hole at a time
2. Story and Thematic Design: Captain Thunderbeard vs. the Mermaids
At the heart of this attraction is an engaging narrative: in the mythical year of 1690, the infamous Captain Thunderbeard, commander of the Smoky Doubloon—the first-ever flying pirate ship—soars into Mermaid Bay in search of ancient treasures. The mermaids, sworn protectors of the Mermaid Kingdom’s hidden riches, stand in his path. As a visitor, you’ll pick sides: join Thunderbeard’s sky pirates—or advocate alongside the mermaids to guard their mystical trove.
This narrative isn’t just a backdrop—it’s integrated into each hole. From cloud-laden rooftop fairways to the shimmering depths of the mermaid kingdom, the courses keep you deeply immersed in the unfolding saga
3. Two 18-Hole Courses: Underwater Wonders & Skyward Adventures
Sky Pirates of Mermaid Bay features 36 holes divided across two distinct themed courses:
Mermaid Course (“Under the Sea Adventure”): An indoor, climate-controlled environment featuring underwater caves, coral reefs, and a serene mermaid kingdom feel. Expect glow-lit props, bubbling ambiance, and whimsical obstacles—like trying to outwit mermaid guardians amid coral canyons
Sky Pirate Course (“In the Clouds”): Out on the rooftop, this course transports you into the realm of airborne pirate ships, treasure troves, and sky-high challenges. Navigate shipwrecked fairways in the clouds while chasing bandits and riches aloft
Together, these two courses offer diverse environments, varied playstyles, and plenty of photo ops to delight all ages.
4. Recognitions & Awards: A Standout Attraction in 2025
This attraction isn’t just fun—it’s award-winning. In 2025, USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards named Sky Pirates of Mermaid Bay both:
- Best New Attraction in the USA
- Best Mini Golf Attraction
These honors reflect public acclaim and underscore the attraction’s success in delivering a fresh, memorable experience
Earlier, in 2024, it also earned the title of “Attraction of the Year” from the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association, highlighting its rapid rise as a flagship family-friendly destination in the Smokies
5. Visitor Experience: Extras That Elevate the Fun
Beyond the courses, Sky Pirates of Mermaid Bay doubles as a full-fledged entertainment hub, featuring:
- Live Characters: Meet roaming mermaids and sky pirates for interactive photo ops and storytelling moments
- Candy Cave & Concessions: Browse an expansive candy shop (“Candy Cave”) with temptations galore. Munch on pineapple DOLE Whip® floats, churros, pizza, nachos, and beverages to refuel between rounds
- Retail & Souvenirs: Pick up whimsical ocean- and pirate-themed trinkets in the onsite store
- Photo Ops Everywhere: Whether undersea wonder or sky-high escapade, the environment is rife with Instagram-worthy scenes
There’s also face painting, costume dress-up, and—coming soon in 2025—a Pirate & Mermaid Breakfast featuring live cast members, turning gameplay into an immersive mealtime adventure
6. Details You Need: Location, Hours, Tickets & Tips
Location: 2420 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee—centrally situated among other major Smoky Mountains attractions
Hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Friday: 10 AM – Midnight
- Saturday: 9 AM – Midnight
- Sunday: 9 AM – 9 PM
Tickets & Deals:
- Buying online saves $2 per ticket compared to gate prices
- Group rates available for groups of 10+
- The Park Hopper Pass offers access to multiple area attractions—including Sky Pirates, Toy Box Mini Golf, Crave Golf Club, and TopJump—available for discounted 1-day or 2-day bundles (around $39.99 and $49.99 respectively)
Opened in late 2023, it quickly became a beloved gaming and storytelling hotspot in the Smokies
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Courses | 36 holes over two themes: Mermaid (indoor) & Sky Pirate (rooftop) |
| Story Premise | Pirate Captain Thunderbeard vs. Mermaids protecting hidden treasures |
| Awards | 2025 USA Today Best New Attraction & Best Mini Golf; 2024 Attraction of the Year |
| Extra Attractions | Live characters, Candy Cave, concessions, retail, photo ops, breakfast |
| Location & Hours | 2420 Parkway, Pigeon Forge. Open daily with extended weekend hours |
| Ticketing & Deals | Online discounts, group rates, Park Hopper Pass |
Conclusion
Sky Pirates of Mermaid Bay isn’t just another mini-golf course—it’s an immersive, theatrical voyage that hooks you with dynamic storytelling, breathtaking design, and interactive surprises. Whether you’re diving into coral caves or navigating sky-high fairways, you’ll find yourself swept into a world where you choose: defend the mystical Mermaid Bay or help the sky pirates claim their treasure.
With its array of extras—live actors, sweets, photo opportunities, and a soon-to-come breakfast show—this spot delivers unforgettable family fun. It’s no wonder audiences voted it Best New Attraction and Best Mini Golf of 2025.
Planning a trip to Pigeon Forge? Add Sky Pirates to your itinerary and prepare to be transported above sea and beyond imagination.
