How long should I spend at Sunliner Diner?

Plan on 45-90 minutes total. It's quicker if you're just grabbing a meal, but longer if you're taking photos, waiting for a car booth, or ordering those elaborate shakes.

Is Sunliner Diner good for kids?

Absolutely! Kids go nuts for the car booths and retro atmosphere. The portions are pretty big too, so you might be able to share meals with younger kids.

Is there parking at Sunliner Diner?

They have an on-site lot, but it fills up fast during peak times. If it's full, you'll need to circle around or park at a nearby business and walk over.

Are the milkshakes worth the price?

They're definitely Instagram-worthy and come with extra shake on the side plus toppings. At $10-13 each, they're pricey but huge - we often share one between two people.

Can you actually sit inside the classic cars?

Yes! Some of the booths are built into real classic cars - that's the whole draw. Just be prepared to wait a bit longer to snag one of those tables.

Sunliner Diner

Duration

45-90 minutes (longer if waiting for car booth or taking lots of photos)

Best For

Families with kids who love cars • Couples wanting a fun themed dinner date • Groups looking for Instagram-worthy dining

Pro Tip

Ask specifically for a car booth when you check in - they're the main attraction but you'll wait longer. The regular tables are still themed, just not as cool.

About Sunliner Diner

Step into a slice of 1950s Americana at Sunliner Diner, where classic cars and comfort food combine for a uniquely entertaining Pigeon Forge dining experience. The moment you walk in, you'll spot the showstopping centerpiece: authentic vintage automobiles converted into dining booths, letting guests eat their meals inside actual classic cars.

The menu delivers exactly what you'd want from a retro diner - thick milkshakes topped with whipped cream, all-day breakfast platters, and juicy burgers served with crispy fries. Each table gets old-school newspaper-style menus, while servers dressed in 50s uniforms complete the time-travel atmosphere. The constant backdrop of rockabilly tunes keeps the energy high without overwhelming conversation.

Located right on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, Sunliner Diner tends to draw crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. While prices run slightly higher than typical diners (expect to pay $15-20 per person for main courses), you're paying for both the food and the immersive experience. The car booth seating is particularly popular with families - kids love eating inside the vehicles, making this a solid choice for memorable family meals.

Pro tips: Visit during off-peak hours (2-5 PM) for shorter waits, and don't skip the photo opportunities with the classic cars. While food quality can vary during extremely busy periods, the shakes and breakfast items consistently receive high marks from regulars. The diner's central location makes it an easy stop to pair with other Pigeon Forge attractions, but parking can be limited during peak times.

Last updated: February 22, 2026 • Based on 43,241 reviews

Amenities & Features

Exceptional service from friendly, themed-dressed servers who enhance the vintage diner atmosphereAuthentic old-school diner ambiance with classic 1950s décor and staff in period costumesMilkshakes and cheese fries are standout menu itemsQuick food service even during busy periods

Don't Miss

Classic Car Booths

Real vintage cars converted into dining booths where you sit inside actual classic automobiles. It's the main reason people come here, and honestly, our kids think it's the coolest thing ever. Just be ready to wait a bit longer for these tables.

Specialty Milkshakes

These aren't your average shakes - they come with extra shake in a metal cup on the side, plus toppings and treats. The peanut butter one comes with a Reese's cup, and they're definitely Instagram-worthy. Pricey but shareable.

1950s Atmosphere

Staff in period costumes, rockabilly music, and menus designed like old newspapers create an authentic retro vibe. The whole place feels like you stepped back in time, which is half the fun of eating here.

All-Day Breakfast

You can get breakfast combos and classics any time they're open. The portions are generous, and it's comfort food done right - though some folks mention the kitchen can be inconsistent during busy times.

Parkway Location

Right in the heart of Pigeon Forge's main strip, so you can easily walk to other attractions or combine it with shopping. The location is super convenient, though parking can be tricky during peak times.

Know Before You Go

Arrive early or late to avoid the main lunch/dinner rush crowds
Bring your camera - the car booths and retro decor are super photogenic
They only take walk-ins, no reservations accepted
It's busiest during summer and fall foliage season
The restaurant is wheelchair accessible with standard parking lot access

Opening Hours

Monday8 AM to 10 PM

Tuesday8 AM to 10 PM

Wednesday8 AM to 10 PM

Thursday8 AM to 10 PM

Friday8 AM to 12 AM

Saturday8 AM to 12 AM

Sunday8 AM to 11 PM

Best Times to Visit Sunliner Diner

For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.

🔥Buzzing

Friday & Saturday evenings

☀️Relaxed

Early dinner 4PM - 5:30PM

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Sunliner Diner?

They're typically open daily from morning through late evening, but exact hours change seasonally. We always check their current hours before heading over since they can shift during peak tourist seasons.

How much does Sunliner Diner cost?

Breakfast plates run about $12-18, burgers and sandwiches are $14-20, and those specialty shakes are $10-13. Expect to spend around $20-25 per person with a drink.

Do I need reservations for Sunliner Diner?

Nope, they're walk-in only like most Parkway spots. You might wait 10-15 minutes during busy times, especially if you want one of the car booths.