The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island's own website lists these attractions:

• Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a 200-foot observation wheel with climate-controlled gondolas, which gives you a long view over the Parkway and toward the mountains.
• The Island Ropes Course, a three-story aerial course with zip lines.
• SkyFly: Soar America, a flying-theater ride.
• Smaller rides, including Dance Party 360, Clockwork, Reverse Time and the Spinning Parrots Coaster.
• Ole Smoky Moonshine, with tastings and live bluegrass.
• A multi-million-dollar show fountain, which kids tend to treat as the main event.

The website describes more than 60 shops, and dining includes Paula Deen's Family Kitchen, Mellow Mushroom and Starbucks. The Escape Game also has a location here.

Pigeon Forge's Winterfest runs November 6, 2026 to January 31, 2027, and The Island has its own Winterfest program from November 21 to January 31, with a tree lighting on November 21. Check the Island's events calendar for the schedule of holiday shows. The Island has also announced American Idol winner Hannah Harper as its New Year's Eve headliner.

The address is 131 The Island Drive, just off the Parkway. Free parking is the draw, but the lot fills on summer evenings, holiday weekends and during fall foliage season, so arrive before dinner or expect to circle.

• Hours vary by venue and by season, so look at the events calendar before you go.
• Pace yourself. Start with the wheel in daylight for the view, then see the fountain at night.
• Bring a jacket from November on. It is an open-air district, and the evening wind picks up.
• Phone: (865) 286-0119.

It suits families who want a low-pressure afternoon, couples who like to walk and snack, and big groups who cannot agree on one activity. Nobody has to pay for the same thing, so a teenager can ride the ropes course while grandparents sit by the fountain with a coffee. For a bigger day, pair it with a show on the Parkway or a morning in the national park.