There is more to Pigeon Forge Tennessee than just gorgeous scenery. The Island is a happy destination designed for fun and unwinding.
And, with 23 acres full of activities and attractions, it’s an entertainment scene quite unlike anything else.
We’re here to show you how to make the most of our your visit and plan your perfect day. Let’s get to it!
Getting to Pigeon Forge Tennessee
Traveling by car is simple. Pigeon Forge, located off I-40, is five miles north of the Great Smoky National Park.
Best of all, parking on the island is free! Park in the LeConte Center Parking Lot. Enjoy FREE trolley rides from here to The Island throughout the day.
When to Visit
The Island of Pigeon Forge Tennessee is open year-round, but hours of operation vary depending on the season.
Fall: 10:00 AM- 11:00 PM
Winter: 10:00 AM- 11:00 PM
Summer: 10:00 AM- 12:00 AM
Spring: 10:00 AM- 11:00 PM (12:00 AM on weekends)
*Holiday schedules vary.
What to Eat
The Island is home to 18 eateries and restaurants and serves everything from to chocolate caramel fudge to fried catfish.
Check out our favorites below.
For Meals
Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen: After all, this is the south, y’all! It doesn’t get more Southern than this! Endless portions served family style – You WILL leave full.
Menu highlights: Best Ever Southern Fried Chicken, mac & cheese, candied yams, and Ooey Gooey Butter Cake.
Be sure to check out their expansive gift shop for take-home souvenirs and tasty treats.
Timberwood Grill: Advertised for having a genuine taste of the mountains, this restaurant masters unique approaches to traditional favorites.
Menu highlights: Gold Nuggets, Bacon Mac & Cheese Burger, Gunpowder Ribeye, and Strawberry Chicken Salad.
Prepare to feel happy AND full after your meal.
For Snacks
Yee Haw Snack Shack: Hot day and craving something sweet? Check out these delicious New Orleans-style snowballs (over 100 flavor combinations). Perfect for a warm day cool-down.
The Fudgery: It’s fudge. Need we say more. Who doesn’t love this chocolate goodness? Craving an indulgent pick-me-up? Everything here is good, and you can’t go wrong with their Extraordinary Chocolate or Chocolate Peanut Butter flavors.
For Drinks
Dick’s Last Resort: Sip from a variety of fun crafted drinks with hilarious names. We recommend trying Trashcan Punch, #TheStruggle The Infamous Killa Rita. The pours run strong, and the crowd runs loud. Bottoms up!
Dude’s Daiquiris: Check out their delicious menu of frozen daiquiris and craft beers. Enjoy friends and fun on their beautiful, sprawling patio- just across from live music playing.
What to Do
Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
At 200-feet, this is the centerpiece of the island and one of the tallest features in the entire Southeast. It features stunning bird-eye views of the Smoky Mountains. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
Adult tickets run for $14.00 with the option to upgrade to VIP status or day/night combos.
The Island Ropes Course
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just trying to cross off a bucket list item, we have the activity for you!
Tackle on a three-story explorer ropes course! It’s complete with suspension bridges, zip lines, and a free fall jump! You need to try this!
Safety is of top concern. This activity is monitored and supervised by train staff.
Take as much time as you need! The course costs $15.00
The Escape Game:
Ever done an escape room? If you haven’t, Pigeon Forge Tennessee wants you to try your luck! If you have, we bet that this one will rank as one of your new favorites.
What to expect? To cut to the chase, you and a group of friends will be locked in a room. It’ll be up to you all to escape. Each game requires finding clues and solving puzzles and working collaboratively as a team. Good luck! This a bonding experience you will not forget.
Each game requires finding clues and solving puzzles and working collaboratively as a team. Good luck! This a bonding experience you will not forget.
There are 4 room options, and each costs $31.99 (lasts about 1 hour).
Book your reservation in advance here!
Old Time Photo:
What’s a group of activities without playing dress-up?
Old Time Photo offers a variety of fun costumes (dress up as a gangster or southern belle!) and you can take home your keepsake. Grab your friends, and enjoy a variety of fun backgrounds and props. Take a home your unique keepsake to always have a piece of Pigeon Forge Tennessee with you!
No reservations required.
Where to Shop
In need for a bit of retail therapy? You’ve come to the right place! Pigeon Forge Tennessee is home to over 60 retail stores and shops.
Our favorite highlights include:
The Beef Jerky Outlet: With their famous try it before you buy it slogan, this is home to 200+ varieties of beef jerky. They also have a variety of tasty sauces, jams, and marinades. If you’re looking for a taste of the Southeast to take home with you, this is a must-visit stop during your day.
Earthbound Trading Co: Looking to feel revitalized? Or just in search of a pair of funky pants? Be sure to check out this lifestyle shop. They’re packed with one-of-a-kind jewelry, clothes, and items for your home.
Patriot Peddler: Show off your American pride and spirit by shopping where everything is made in the USA. This shop is full of clothing, home decor, and military gifts for the proud American in your life.
Village Idiot: If the name doesn’t win you over, their unique inventory will. Shop from thousands of handcrafted and fun items- there’s everything from elephant bracelets to butt naked incense.
Farmhouse 9110: Check out their inspiring inventory of rustic-style home decor and decoration. Perfect for the home. Perfect gifts to the trendy friend in your life.
Nourish Natural Bath Products: Take home a piece of luxury and indulgence with their amazing, handmade products. Shop from a variety of bath and spa products.
Book Your Stay!
Staying in the Smoky Mountains? Looking for lodging without breaking the bank? American Patriot Getaways has plenty of cabins to choose from only minutes from The Island in Pigeon Forge Tennessee!
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