The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island is Pigeon Forge's version of a town square — 23 acres of shops, restaurants, and rides centered around a massive 200-foot Ferris wheel. We love coming here because it's free to walk around and soak up the atmosphere, plus the fountain show every 30 minutes gives the kids something to anticipate.

The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is the real star here. Those 42 glass gondolas give you killer views of the Smokies, especially at sunset when the million lights kick on. The fountain show runs every half hour with 89 water jets shooting 60 feet high — and now they've added life-sized animatronic dinosaurs that pop up during the hourly Jurassic shows.

You'll find solid food options like Timberwood Grill and Margaritaville, plus an enormous arcade that'll eat your quarters fast. The rope course with zip lines is surprisingly challenging, and our kids always beg for the spinning coaster and carousel.

Here's the catch: while entry and parking are free, everything else costs extra. The Wheel runs about $20 per person, rides need individual tickets or an unlimited pass, and arcade games add up quick. We usually budget $40-50 per person if you're doing more than just walking around.

Evening visits are worth the wait — the whole place lights up like Christmas and the fountain shows look way better in the dark. Get there by 4pm on weekends or you'll circle the parking lots forever. Pro tip: those rocking chairs around the fountain fill up fast before each show, so claim yours early.