Quick Facts About The Island in Pigeon Forge
Before diving into specific attractions, let’s cover some essential information to help you plan your visit:
Location & Hours:
The Island sits at 131 The Island Drive in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee (right off the main Parkway). It’s open daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with extended hours during summer and holiday seasons.
Parking:
Free parking is available in several lots surrounding The Island. During peak summer months and holidays, arrive early (before noon) to secure a spot in the main lot. Overflow parking with shuttle service is available during busy periods.
Size & Scope:
Spanning 23 acres, The Island houses over 80 retail and specialty shops, family-friendly attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The walkable layout features a central fountain plaza surrounded by dining, shopping, and attractions.
Admission:
There’s no entry fee to access The Island. You’ll only pay for the attractions, rides, and experiences you choose to enjoy. This makes it perfect for mixing free activities (like watching the fountain show) with paid attractions.
Brief History:
The Island opened in 2013, transforming what was previously an underutilized area into one of Pigeon Forge’s premier entertainment destinations. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel was among the first attractions, quickly becoming an iconic part of the Pigeon Forge skyline.
Top Attractions at The Island Loved by All
The Island’s central location makes it the perfect starting point for any Pigeon Forge adventure. We recommend visiting during weekday mornings to experience minimal wait times at popular attractions.
1. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
The crown jewel of The Island stands 200 feet tall and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge. Each climate-controlled gondola accommodates up to 8 passengers, making it perfect for families or groups.
The wheel completes several rotations during your ride, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views and capture photos. For a truly magical experience, ride at sunset when the mountains take on a purple hue, or after dark when The Island’s lights create a magical backdrop.
Ticket prices run around $15-20 per person. If heights make you nervous, request a private gondola (for an additional fee) to feel more comfortable.
2. The Island Show Fountain
The centerpiece of The Island is its magnificent show fountain, featuring water choreographed to music with stunning lighting effects.Shows run hourly, creating a gathering place for visitors throughout the day and evening.
Fountain shows run on the hour from noon until closing. Evening shows (after 7:00 PM) feature the most impressive lighting effects.
Best Viewing Spots: The fountain is surrounded by rocking chairs and benches, but for the best view, grab a seat at one of the restaurants with fountain-facing patios like Margaritaville or Mellow Mushroom. During summer, the splash areas around the fountain let kids cool off between shows.
3. Arcade City and Games
For indoor fun that the whole family can enjoy, Arcade City offers over 100 state-of-the-art arcade games, from classics like skee-ball to the latest interactive experiences.
Games operate on a reloadable card system, with most games costing between $0.50-3.00 per play. The arcade uses a ticket-based prize redemption system where players can exchange tickets for prizes ranging from small toys to electronics.
Arcade City offers a Play All Day pass that gives unlimited access to select games for a flat fee – perfect for families with arcade enthusiasts or on rainy days.
4. The Escape Game and Interactive Attractions
Test your problem-solving skills at The Escape Game, featuring immersive, themed rooms where you and your team work together to solve puzzles and complete a mission within 60 minutes.
“Prison Break” and “Gold Rush” rank as visitor favorites, with varying difficulty levels suitable for both beginners and experienced escape artists.
Reservation Tip: Book your escape room experience online at least 24 hours in advance, especially during peak season, as these popular attractions fill quickly.
Seasonal Attractions
The Island transforms throughout the year with special seasonal events:
- Summer Splash: During summer months, the expanded splash pad areas provide a refreshing break from the Tennessee heat.
- Fall Harvest: September through November features festive decorations and special events like pumpkin carving demonstrations.
- Winterfest Celebrations: From November through February, The Island transforms with over 40,000 Christmas lights, visits with Santa, and a spectacular New Year's Eve celebration featuring a midnight ball drop.
Dining Experiences at The Island
This Island isn’t just another tourist stop. It’s the centerpiece of countless childhood memories and family traditions in East Tennessee built over warm meals.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
The Island offers dining options for every taste and budget:
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Paula Deen's Family Kitchen:
Serving Southern comfort food in a family-style setting. Meals are served in shareable portions, with classics like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and banana pudding. Expect to spend $20-30 per person for a generous meal. -
Margaritaville:
Jimmy Buffett's island-inspired restaurant features tropical cocktails and coastal cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere. The multi-level patio offers spectacular views of the fountain. Most entrées range from $15-25. -
Mellow Mushroom:
This pizza joint offers creative pies, calzones, and a kid-friendly menu in an eclectic, artistic environment. Perfect for families seeking a casual meal around $15 per person.
Quick-Service Food Options
For grab-and-go dining or snacks between attractions:
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Auntie Anne's Pretzels:
Hand-rolled soft pretzels in sweet and savory varieties. -
The Island Creamery:
Hand-scooped ice cream and specialty sundaes, perfect on a hot summer day. -
Big Rock Candy Kitchen:
Offering fresh fudge, salt water taffy, and chocolate-dipped treats made on-site daily.
Unique Dining Experiences
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Yee-Haw Brewing Company:
This local craft brewery offers a tasting room where you can sample Tennessee-made beers in flights or pints, often featuring limited seasonal brews you won't find elsewhere. -
Timberwood Grill:
Request a table with a view of the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for a memorable dining backdrop. Their smoked prime rib (weekend special) has earned a loyal following among locals.
For more culinary adventures, explore dining options throughout Pigeon Forge.
Shopping Destinations at The Island
There’s no dearth of shopping outlets at The Island. From well-established national chains to unique boutiques, there’s something for everyone here.
Unique Local Crafts and Souvenirs
The Island features several specialty and themed shops showcasing authentic Smoky Mountain craftsmanship:
- The Smoky Mountain Woodcarvers: Watch artisans create intricate wood carvings and take home a piece of mountain craftsmanship.
- Old Forge Distillery: Sample and purchase locally produced moonshine, whiskey, and bourbon made with time-honored Tennessee techniques.
- The Toy Chest: Featuring old-fashioned wooden toys, brain teasers, and puzzles that make unique souvenirs.
- Build-A-Bear Workshop: Create a customized stuffed animal friend – a favorite activity for children visiting The Island.
- Island Trading Post: This general store carries everything from practical necessities to quirky souvenirs at reasonable prices.
- The Sweet Shoppe: A paradise for candy lovers with over 100 varieties of sweets, including hand-pulled taffy made on-site.
Best Value Shopping Opportunities
- Bargain Stores: Don’t miss The Island’s clearance and outlet shops where last-season items are often marked down 50-70%.
- Package Deals: Several stores offer “buy more, save more” promotions—perfect if you’re shopping for multiple family members.
- Off-Season Shopping: Visit during January-February for the best after-holiday clearance sales, when many retailers offer significant discounts to clear inventory.
Entertainment and Live Shows
The fountain shows, street performers, unique shops, and dining options provide plenty of entertainment without paying for attractions. The Island’s atmosphere makes it enjoyable even if you don’t participate in paid activities.
Entertainment and Live Shows
- Island Musicians: Throughout the day, local musicians perform at the central stage, featuring everything from bluegrass and country to rock and pop covers. Check the performance schedule posted near the fountain for daily lineups.
- Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show: Several times weekly, Paula Deen's restaurant hosts cooking demonstrations featuring Southern recipes and techniques (separate ticket required).
- Pigeon Forge offers a bunch of fun dinner shows with great food and entertainment. You'll find everything from lively music and comedy to magic acts happening all over town, perfect for a night out while enjoying a meal.
Street Performers and Impromptu Entertainment
The Island regularly features street performers, including:
- Bubble Masters: Creating giant soap bubbles that delight children and adults alike.
- Caricature Artists: Get a whimsical portrait drawn while you wait.
- Magic Shows: Impromptu close-up magic performances often occur near the central fountain area.
Interactive Entertainment
- The Flying Horse Carousel: A meticulously restored vintage carousel featuring hand-painted scenes of the Smoky Mountains and 35 unique flying horses.
- 7D Dark Ride Adventure: Combining a 3D movie with a motion ride and laser shooting gallery for an immersive experience.
- Mirror Maze: Navigate through a labyrinth of mirrors and optical illusions—a surprisingly challenging adventure for all ages.
Insider Tips for The Island in Pigeon Forge
The sun setting behind the Smoky Mountains as you soar 200 feet above Pigeon Forge in a glass-enclosed gondola, the multi-colored lights of The Island twinkling below like a carnival come to life. Here are some quick tips on how to make the best of this popular destination:
Avoiding Crowds
- Quietest Times: Tuesday and Wednesday mornings (10:00 AM-noon) typically see the lightest crowds year-round.
- Seasonal Patterns: January and February offer the most crowd-free experience, while July and December experience the heaviest visitor traffic.
- Evening Strategy: Most day-trippers leave around dinner time. Arriving after 7:00 PM often means shorter lines for attractions, though you'll miss some daytime-only experiences.
Money-Saving Strategies
- Combination Tickets: The Play & Ride Pass bundles multiple attractions at a savings of up to 30% compared to purchasing separately.
- Happy Hour Specials: Several Island restaurants offer happy hour food and drink specials, typically weekdays from 4:00-6:00 PM.
- Free Entertainment: Plan your visit around the fountain shows, street performers, and seasonal decorations to enjoy several hours of entertainment without spending on attractions.
Lesser-Known Photo Opportunities
- Smoky Mountain Wheel Base: The decorative plaza at the base of the wheel features artistic lighting that makes for stunning nighttime photos.
- Pedestrian Bridge: The covered bridge connecting the main parking area to The Island offers a perfect framing shot of the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
- Rocking Chair Row: The line of rocking chairs facing the fountain creates a quintessential Smoky Mountain photo opportunity, especially when decked out in seasonal decorations.
Perfect Day Itineraries for The Island in Pigeon Forge
Most visitors spend 4-6 hours exploring The Island. For a complete experience including shopping, dining, and multiple attractions, consider allowing a full day. If you’re just visiting for a specific attraction or meal, 2-3 hours may be sufficient.
Here are some itinerary suggestions:
Family Day Plan (with Kids Under 12)
Morning (10:00 AM-1:00 PM)
- Start with the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel when lines are shortest
- Let kids burn energy at the play area and splash pad
- Enjoy lunch at Mellow Mushroom with fountain views
Afternoon (1:00-5:00 PM)
- Visit The Island Trading Post for souvenirs
- Experience the 3:00 PM fountain show
- Explore Arcade City and the Mirror Maze
- Sweet treat break at The Island Creamery
Evening (5:00-9:00 PM)
- Dinner at Paula Deen's Family Kitchen
- Evening ride on the Flying Horse Carousel
- Catch the illuminated 8:00 PM fountain show
- Finish with a nighttime wheel ride to see The Island lights
Couples' Date Night Plan
Late Afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM)
- Begin with a tasting at Ole Smoky Moonshine
- Browse specialty shops for unique gifts
- Enjoy happy hour drinks at Margaritaville's rooftop bar
Evening (6:00-10:00 PM)
- Dinner at Timberwood Grill (request a window table)
- Catch the 8:00 PM fountain show
- Take a romantic sunset/evening ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
- Finish with dessert at The Fudgery
Maximizing Value (Budget-Friendly) Plan
Morning (10:00-1:00 PM)
- Explore shops and enjoy free demonstrations
- Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy near the fountain
- Take advantage of the free splash pad in summer
Afternoon (1:00-5:00 PM)
- Visit Arcade City with a set budget for games
- Catch the afternoon fountain shows
- Sample free tastings at various food shops
Evening (5:00-8:00 PM)
- Share affordable appetizers at Mellow Mushroom
- Enjoy the evening fountain show and street performers
- Splurge on just one premium attraction (like the Wheel)
Looking for places to stay near all this excitement? Check out where to stay in Pigeon Forge for accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts and cabins.
Accessibility Features, Safety and Visitor Information
Here are the key things to keep in mind while exploring the Island:
Wheelchair and Mobility Device Access:
The Island is fully wheelchair accessible with paved walkways throughout. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel accommodates standard wheelchairs, and most attractions have accessible entrances and queuing areas.
Service Animal Policy:
Service animals are welcomed throughout The Island, including in most shops and restaurants. Relief areas are available near the main entrance.
Sensory Considerations:
For visitors with sensory sensitivities, quieter times (weekday mornings) offer a less overwhelming experience. Some attractions (like the fountain) can be loud during shows.
Baby Care & Stroller Access:
Family restrooms with changing stations are located throughout The Island. A private nursing room is available near the central plaza. All walkways accommodate strollers, and most restaurants have stroller parking areas. Stroller rentals are available at Guest Services.
Kid-Friendly Facilities:
Water fountains, restrooms, and shaded seating areas are conveniently located throughout the complex.
First Aid:
A first aid station is located at Guest Services, staffed during all operating hours.
Security:
Security personnel patrol The Island continuously. For assistance, look for staff members in official Island uniforms or visit Guest Services.
Lost and Found:
Items found are turned in to Guest Services. Lost items can be reported there or through The Island’s website.
Beyond The Island for Pigeon Forge Adventures
The Island isn’t just a collection of shops and attractions – it’s the beating heart of Pigeon Forge’s entertainment scene. From the iconic Great Smoky Mountain Wheel to the mesmerizing fountain shows and everything in between, this vibrant destination captures the playful spirit that makes the Smoky Mountains so special.
While it offers enough entertainment for a full day, it’s just one of many amazing attractions in the area.
Expand your Pigeon Forge adventure by exploring other options, from thrilling rides and mountain coasters to indoor and outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or your fiftieth, Pigeon Forge continues to evolve with new experiences while maintaining the warm, welcoming atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back year after year.
So grab your camera, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to create memories that will last long after you’ve returned home.
Ready to start planning your perfect Pigeon Forge getaway?
FAQs
While The Island does not have regular fireworks shows throughout the year, it is a popular destination for special events and holiday celebrations. hosts an annual New Year’s Eve celebration featuring a free concert and a spectacular midnight fireworks display. This event is one of the largest in the Smoky Mountains and is open to the public at no cost .
The Island in Pigeon Forge is well worth a visit, offering a range of attractions and events that cater to a wide audience of all age groups. Visitors often praise The Island for its family-friendly atmosphere, diverse dining options, and unique shopping experiences. It’s a great place to spend a few hours or an entire day, whether you’re interested in rides, shopping, or simply enjoying the lively environment .
Absolutely! The fountain shows, street performers, unique shops, and dining options provide plenty of entertainment without paying for attractions. The Island’s atmosphere makes it enjoyable even if you don’t participate in paid activities.
While outside food isn’t prohibited in the common areas, there are limited picnic areas. Most visitors take advantage of the diverse dining options available within The Island.
Each season offers a different experience. Summer features the splash pad and outdoor activities, fall brings harvest decorations, winter showcases holiday lights and events, and spring offers moderate crowds and pleasant weather. For the lowest crowds, visit January-February (excluding holiday weekends).
Yes! The fountain shows run hourly and are completely free to watch. Street performers, seasonal decorations, window shopping, and the festive atmosphere can be enjoyed without spending money on attractions.
