The Island in Pigeon Forge

About The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island in Pigeon Forge is one of the most popular entertainment destinations in the Smoky Mountains, attracting millions of visitors each year with its unique combination of shopping, dining, rides, and free entertainment. Located right on the Pigeon Forge Parkway, this 23-acre complex opened in 2013 and has expanded significantly since then, becoming a must-visit destination for anyone vacationing in the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area.

What makes The Island truly special is that admission and parking are completely free. You can stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, enjoy the free fountain shows, window shop, and people-watch without spending a dime. Of course, there are plenty of ways to spend money if you choose, from riding the iconic Great Smoky Mountain Wheel to shopping at boutiques and dining at a variety of restaurants ranging from casual to upscale.

The atmosphere at The Island is festive and vibrant, with live music often filling the air and colorful lights illuminating the complex after dark. Whether you are looking for an afternoon of shopping, an evening dinner destination, or a full day of family fun, The Island delivers an experience that appeals to every age group and interest level. Many visitors find themselves returning multiple times during a single vacation.

The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

The centerpiece of The Island is the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a massive 200-foot observation wheel that dominates the Pigeon Forge skyline. This stunning Ferris wheel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and the surrounding valley from enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas. Each gondola seats up to eight passengers, making it perfect for families or small groups.

A ride on the wheel lasts approximately four rotations, giving you around 12 to 15 minutes of elevated views. The experience is especially magical at sunset when the mountains are bathed in golden light, and after dark when the wheel itself lights up with thousands of LED lights in spectacular color-changing patterns. The illuminated wheel has become one of the most photographed landmarks in Pigeon Forge.

Tickets for the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel can be purchased at the base of the attraction or online in advance. Combination tickets are available that include other rides and attractions at The Island, which can save money if you plan to do multiple activities. The wheel operates year-round, weather permitting, with extended hours during summer and holiday seasons.

Rides and Attractions

Island Ropes Course

A multi-level outdoor ropes course that challenges visitors with obstacles, climbing walls, and suspended bridges. Multiple difficulty levels make it accessible to both kids and adults. The course provides a great adrenaline rush with excellent views of The Island complex below.

Island Mirror Maze

Navigate through a disorienting maze of mirrors and LED lights. This attraction is surprisingly challenging and entertaining for all ages. The maze uses special lighting effects that create an almost otherworldly experience as you try to find your way through.

Bumper Cars and Carnival Rides

The Island features several carnival-style rides perfect for younger children and families. Bumper cars, a carousel, and other rides provide classic amusement park fun in a beautifully maintained outdoor setting.

Alcatraz East Crime Museum

One of The Island's marquee attractions, the Alcatraz East Crime Museum explores American crime history through five themed galleries. Interactive exhibits, authentic artifacts, and immersive displays make this a fascinating experience for adults and older teens. Highlights include artifacts from famous cases and an interactive crime-solving experience.

Shopping at The Island

With over 80 shops and boutiques, The Island offers some of the best shopping in the Pigeon Forge area. Unlike typical tourist strip malls, the shops at The Island are arranged in a charming, walkable village setting with beautiful landscaping, fountains, and outdoor seating areas. The variety ranges from nationally known brands to unique locally owned boutiques.

Popular shopping destinations include specialty candy shops where you can watch treats being made, custom t-shirt and souvenir stores, jewelry boutiques featuring local artisans, home decor shops with mountain-themed items, and specialty food stores with Tennessee-made products including hot sauces, jams, and of course, moonshine. The shopping experience is enhanced by the festive atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.

Dining Options

The Island's restaurant scene has grown significantly since opening, now featuring options for every taste and budget. From quick service to sit-down dining, you will find something to satisfy every craving.

• Margaritaville: Jimmy Buffett-themed restaurant with tropical cocktails, burgers, and Caribbean-inspired cuisine. Live music and a laid-back island atmosphere make this a popular dinner spot.
• Timberwood Grill: Upscale casual dining with steaks, seafood, and an impressive craft cocktail program. One of the best full-service restaurants in the area.
• Paula Deen's Family Kitchen: Southern comfort food served family-style in generous portions. Fried chicken, mac and cheese, and other Southern favorites are served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
• Quick service options: Pizza, burgers, ice cream, funnel cakes, and other quick bites are available throughout The Island complex.

The Island Show Fountain

One of the best free attractions in all of Pigeon Forge, The Island Show Fountain puts on spectacular choreographed water, light, and music shows throughout the day and evening. The fountain features jets that shoot water up to 60 feet in the air, synchronized to popular music and illuminated by colorful lights.

Shows run approximately every 30 minutes during operating hours, with the evening shows being especially impressive when the lights are most visible. The fountain is surrounded by seating areas where you can relax and enjoy the show. The combination of music, water, and light creates a genuinely impressive display that rivals much more expensive attractions. Kids are especially captivated by the dancing water, and the shows provide a perfect rest break during a busy day of exploring.

Planning Tips for Visiting The Island

• Best time to visit: Late afternoon into evening for the best atmosphere and lighting on the wheel and fountain shows
• Parking: Free parking is available in large lots surrounding the complex, but arrive early during peak season
• Budget tip: Walking the grounds and watching fountain shows is completely free - you only pay for rides, attractions, and food
• Seasonal events: The Island goes all-out for holidays with special decorations and events for Christmas, Halloween, and summer festivals
• Accessibility: The complex is wheelchair and stroller friendly with paved walkways throughout
• Combine with: The Island is centrally located on the Pigeon Forge Parkway, making it easy to combine with nearby attractions like dinner shows or Dollywood