Ever since the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel began lighting up the sky in 2013, The Island in Pigeon Forge has been a visitor favorite along the Parkway, even earning a distinguished spot among the 2018 Top 10 Amusement Parks Worldwide on TripAdvisor. Wandering through the unique shops, distinctive attractions, and savory dining options, it can feel a little overwhelming. Know how to get there, what to bring, and the kind of budget to fit into your perfect day at The Island by following our expert guide below! While your Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Cabin is the highlight of your mountain getaway, you want an exciting day of Smoky Mountain fun to really round off your dream vacation.
- Getting There
One of the best parts of The Island is its convenient location in downtown Pigeon Forge. In addition to a large parking lot with ample space, The Island Express train picks up guests at the covered stops throughout the expansive lot so visitors don’t have to walk too far among vehicles coming and going. Situated on the Parkway only a few stops from the Old Mill District and the Fun Time Trolley ticket office and parking, you have ample options for getting there and parking. Park and ride the Fun Time Trolley to The Island and over 50 other stops for only $2.50 for an entire day of rides. - Your Island Experience
The unique structure of The Island as a place to dine, enjoy rides, shop, and explore without a park entrance fee may be a new concept for many, so it’s good to know what kind of day you are in for if you are with the family, out on the town with friends, or enjoying a day date with your special someone. With tons of ground to cover and attractions like The Escape Game, you want to be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes when heading to The Island for a full day of amusement.The Island is a great place for a throwback date night with a savory meal at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen and a romantic ride with inspiring views on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. So dressing up isn’t totally out of the question, either. The Island can be a laid-back day of shopping and snacking, a night of drinks and good times at Changes In Latitude Bar, or an adventurous day for the kids on the Island Ropes Course and in the Thunderdome. Here are just a few of the attractions to be found on your trip to The Island:Island Show Fountains
Equipped with thousands of LED lights and state-of-the-art technology, this serene pond in the middle of The Island magically transform into one of visitors’ to the Smokies favorite musical shows!Alcatraz East Crime Museum
Get up close and eerily informed of the intimate details, psychoanalysis, and artifacts of some of the country’s most infamous criminals in this interactive exhibit and audio tour with the walls of a replica of island prison of Alcatraz.RideMakerz
Your kids will love building and designing their very own, one-of-a-kind remote-controlled car to take home!Parrot Mountain at The Island
Get to know a few of the feathered inhabitants of Parrot Mountain in Pigeon Forge while feeding, petting, and taking pictures with the beautiful exotic parrots, cockatoos, and macaws.Yee-Haw Brewing Company
Sit down to some of the best of the Smoky Mountains’ thirst-quenching ales and lagers brewed in small batches in the tasting room of Yee-Haw Brewing Company.The Escape Game
Choose your adventure, solving a mystery, flying a spaceship back to earth, breaking out of prison, and more, and then try your wits and resourcefulness as you race the clock!Dick’s Last Resort
Remember their motto of, “Fun for all and all in fun!” when you sit down to the table at Dick’s Last Resort, because this wait staff is not like any other. They will bring your food alongside some well-rounded humor, and no one is getting out totally unroasted! - Budget to Fit Your Vacation
The Island is a fantastic amusement park option for families with younger children on a budget, because they can enjoy rides like Funny Cars, Spinning Parrots Coaster, and Lil Ribbits while parents watch without having to pay. Rather than spending $50+ on tickets for each family member at typical amusement parks, purchase an Unlimited Rides Pass for only $30 for the kids at The Island. This pass not only includes 9 rides but is also good for 2 days! As far as budgeting for your group’s outing to The Island goes, it’s pretty easy with the attraction’s detailed website. View ticket prices, peruse brief descriptions of the shopping, and even look over menus on the restaurant websites directly linked on The Island’s description of each dining venue.
After a full day of shopping, dining, and playing, return to the homey comforts of your Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Cabin to unwind in the outdoor hot tub, cuddle by a warm fire, or enjoy drinks on the deck with starry skies resting over the pale shadows of the moon shining over the mountains.
