How long should I spend at The Island in Pigeon Forge?

Plan on 2-4 hours for the main attractions like the wheel, fountain shows, and dining. You could easily spend a full day if you're shopping, playing arcade games, and trying multiple restaurants.

Is The Island in Pigeon Forge good for kids?

Absolutely! It's incredibly family-friendly with rides like the carousel and Spinning Parrots, plus the fountain show keeps kids mesmerized. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is great for all ages since the gondolas are fully enclosed.

Is there parking at The Island in Pigeon Forge?

Yes, parking is completely free! There's plenty of space, and if you don't want to walk from the far lots, they have trams running to help you get to the entrance.

What's the best time to see the fountain show?

The fountain shows happen every hour on the hour from 10am-11:30pm. Evening shows are the most spectacular when the lights sync up with the water and music - we always try to catch the 8pm or 9pm shows.

Are the Ferris wheel gondolas safe for people afraid of heights?

Yes! The gondolas are completely enclosed and climate-controlled, making them much more comfortable than open-air rides. Many visitors who are usually nervous about heights find them surprisingly relaxing.

The Island in Pigeon Forge

Duration

2-4 hours (full day possible with shopping and dining)

Best For

Families with kids of all ages • Couples looking for dinner and entertainment • Groups wanting variety in one location

Pro Tip

Hit up Ole Smoky Moonshine for free tastings and live bluegrass music - it's right on The Island and the samples are generous.

About The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island in Pigeon Forge delivers big entertainment value in the heart of Tennessee's most popular tourist town. This sprawling 23-acre amusement park combines shopping, dining, and family attractions in one easily walkable complex that's free to enter.

The centerpiece Great Smoky Mountain Wheel towers 200 feet above the property, offering climate-controlled gondola rides with panoramic mountain views. Every hour, crowds gather around the central fountain where 89 synchronized jets dance to music and lights - grab one of the numerous rocking chairs for the best view of the show.

Food options range from casual to sit-down restaurants, including Paula Deen's Family Kitchen and Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. With over 60 retail shops, you'll find everything from local crafts to brand-name merchandise. Kids especially love the arcade, rope courses, and carnival-style games scattered throughout.

While entry to The Island is free, budget around $50 per person if you plan to enjoy multiple attractions. The observation wheel, rides, and interactive experiences each have separate fees. Evening visits offer extra charm as thousands of lights illuminate the property, and live musicians often perform in the central courtyard.

Plan to spend 3-4 hours exploring, longer if you include a sit-down meal. The complex stays impeccably clean, with plenty of benches and rest areas. Parking is abundant but fills quickly during peak season. For the best experience, arrive early in the day or after dinner when crowds typically thin out. The Island has become a must-visit Pigeon Forge destination that successfully balances tourist appeal with genuine family entertainment.

Last updated: February 15, 2026 • Based on 59,032 reviews

Amenities & Features

Spectacular fountain and light shows that captivate visitors for extended periodsOutstanding holiday decorations and festive atmosphere with beautiful lights and musicVariety of activities including rides and entertainment optionsExceptionally helpful and courteous staff throughout the property

Don't Miss

Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

This 200-foot observation wheel is Tennessee's largest and the main draw here. The 42 climate-controlled gondolas seat up to 8 people and give you incredible views of the Smoky Mountains. Even if you're afraid of heights, the fully enclosed gondolas make it comfortable.

Musical Fountain Show

The central fountain has 89 nozzles that shoot water up to 60 feet high, all perfectly synchronized to music and lights. Shows happen every hour from 10am-11:30pm, and the evening shows are absolutely magical. Grab one of the rocking chairs around the fountain for the best view.

Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville

This isn't just dinner - it's a whole Parrothead experience with tropical drinks, live music, and that laid-back island vibe. The food is solid and the atmosphere is always fun, especially if you can snag a table during one of their live shows.

Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery

Free tastings of their moonshine flavors plus live bluegrass music make this a must-stop. The samples are generous and the musicians are incredibly talented. It's a great way to experience authentic Smoky Mountain culture.

Ropes Course Adventure

This multi-level ropes course gets your adrenaline pumping with different difficulty levels. It's well-maintained and the staff does a great job with safety briefings. Great for teens and adults looking for a physical challenge.

Paula Deen's Family Kitchen

Southern comfort food served family-style with all the fixings. The portions are huge and everything comes to your table hot and fresh. Fair warning - there's usually a wait, but the biscuits and fried chicken are worth it.

Know Before You Go

Wear comfortable walking shoes - this 23-acre complex requires lots of walking
Bring layers for the climate-controlled Ferris wheel gondolas and outdoor areas
Budget extra for individual ride tickets and food - costs add up quickly for families
Evening visits are best for the full fountain show and lighting experience
Free trams available if you park in the outer lots

Opening Hours

Monday9 AM to 12 AM

Tuesday9 AM to 12 AM

Wednesday9 AM to 12 AM

Thursday9 AM to 12 AM

Friday9 AM to 12 AM

Saturday9 AM to 12 AM

Sunday9 AM to 12 AM

Best Times to Visit The Island in Pigeon Forge

Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.

🔥Buzzing

Weekend afternoons

☀️Relaxed

Weekday mornings

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for The Island in Pigeon Forge?

The Island is open year-round with minimal holiday closures. The fountain shows run every hour from 10am to 11:30pm daily, and most shops and restaurants follow similar schedules.

How much does The Island in Pigeon Forge cost?

General admission is completely free! Individual attractions are pay-per-ride, typically ranging $10-15 per person for rides like the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. Check current pricing on-site.

Do I need reservations for The Island in Pigeon Forge?

No reservations needed for general admission or most attractions. However, we'd recommend making reservations for popular restaurants like Margaritaville or Paula Deen's Family Kitchen, especially during peak season.