What is The Island in Pigeon Forge?

The Island is one of the most-buzzed-about destinations in Pigeon Forge, TN. If you haven’t been to the Smoky Mountains in a little while, you may be wondering, “What is The Island in Pigeon Forge?”. Fortunately, Visit My Smokies is here to help! Read on for a complete guide to everything you need to know about The Island.

Intro to The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island in Pigeon Forge is an amazing shopping and entertainment complex located right off of the Parkway. Opened in 2013, The Island has quickly become a can’t-miss stop for visitors to the Smokies. Guests at The Island can explore more than 80 wonderful shops, attractions, and restaurants. Here are a few of the most popular things to do and places to eat at The Island:

The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is the centerpiece of The Island in Pigeon Forge. Towering 200 ft. above the ground, this incredible Ferris wheel is one of the four tallest wheels in the United States. Featuring 42 all-glass gondolas, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel provides breathtaking views of Pigeon Forge and the mountains, making it perfect for a romantic afternoon or evening out on the town.

The Island Show Fountain

The Show Fountain is another iconic attraction at The Island in Pigeon Forge. Located in the heart of the complex, the Show Fountain features streams of water that “dance” to popular songs. The fountain is surrounded by complimentary rocking chairs, where visitors can kick back, listen to the music, and watch the beautiful display.

Ole Smoky Moonshine Barn

No visit to The Island is complete without a stop at the Ole Smoky Moonshine Barn. This awesome distillery offers fun tastings of its authentic white lightnin’. Sampling the moonshine costs $5, but participants receive a $5 coupon that can be applied to any purchase in the store. Some of the most-talked-about moonshine flavors at Ole Smoky include Apple Pie, Blue Flame, and Java. Guests who don’t partake in the white whiskey can still enjoy the Barn’s excellent live bluegrass music.

Alcatraz East Crime Museum

The Alcatraz East Crime Museum is home to some of the most notorious artifacts in the history of American crime. Visitors to the museum will have the chance to see John Dillinger’s death mask, Al Capone’s rosary, and O.J. Simpson’s Ford Bronco. Alcatraz East also offers a number of interactive exhibits, including a police shooting range, jail cell escape, and heist laser maze.

Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen

The Island in Pigeon Forge is home to the restaurant of celebrity chef Paula Deen. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen serves all of Deen’s most famous dishes, including her Best Ever Southern Fried Chicken, Cheesy Meatloaf, and Ooey Gooey Butter Cake. If you’re hungry, definitely stop by and get some of the delicious food!

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville

Paula Deen isn’t the only celebrity with a restaurant at The Island! Legendary musician Jimmy Buffett brought his beloved Margaritaville franchise to Pigeon Forge in 2014. Inspired by Buffett’s “5 o’clock somewhere” philosophy, this island-themed restaurant is famous for its Cheeseburgers in Paradise and tropical beverages.

Timberwood Grill

Timberwood Grill is another excellent eatery at The Island in Pigeon Forge. This mountain lodge-themed restaurant can sit up to 16 people at one table, making it popular with family reunions and other large groups. Standout menu items include the Prosperity Sandwich, Bison Burger, and Corn Dodgers.

Mellow Mushroom Select

Mellow Mushroom Select is a streamlined version of the South’s best pizza chain. Guests at this restaurant order right at the counter for faster service than the typical Mellow Mushroom location. Mellow Mushroom Select is also well known for its superb daiquiri bar and regular live music.

Looking for even more fun destinations for your next vacation? Check out our comprehensive list of Things to Do in Pigeon Forge!