What’s New in the Smokies?

What's New in the Smoky Mountains

The charming mountain towns in the Smokies are constantly working to offer something new for their guests. Each year, new events and attractions pop up, so there’s always something fun to do, see, and even taste! One of the area’s newest and most exciting attractions is The Island in Pigeon Forge. This retail and entertainment center boasts restaurants, stores, attractions, and even rides! To top it all off, there’s live entertainment each day at The Island!

While at The Island, have a bite to eat, take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, play arcade games, or enjoy local flavor at the Ole Smoky Distillery. Here’s what you’ll find at The Island in Pigeon Forge:

Games & Rides
There’s plenty of fun for everyone with the many games and attractions at The Island. Kids will love riding the Flying Horse Carousel, testing their skills at the Shoot’em Up Gallery, and looking for stones at Miner’s Gems. Feel like a kid again at Arcade City, Island Adventure Mirror Maze & Lazer Tag, and Thunderdome Bungy Jump before taking a romantic ride on The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.

Restaurants & Snacks
Bursting with flavor and offering tons of variety for all, the restaurants and food carts at The Island will carry you from breakfast to dinner – and beyond. Start the morning with some cinnamon rolls and pastries at Cinnabon and a hot cup of Joe from Margaritaville Coffee. After playing some games, stop by for a hot pretzel at Auntie Anne’s, washed down by an ice cold drink from Bill’s World Famous Lemonade. On hot days, cool off with shaved ice at Create-A-Cone or a creamy scoop at Island Yogurt or The Island Creamery. For lunch, fill up on fries and brats at Poynor’s Pommes Frites or grab a slice at Mellow Mushroom. Don’t forget to stop by the Ole Smoky Distillery for a taste of local moonshine! Then get in some shopping before heading to dinner. There’s something for everyone, so try Dick’s Last Resort, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Timberwood Grill, or Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen. Of course, you won’t want to miss dessert. Try candy at Sweet!, homemade fudge at The Fudgery, and donuts and coffee at The Island Mini Donuts & Coffee. Need a drink to end the night? Head over to Dude’s Daiquiris for a taste of the Caribbean, craft beers, and live music seasonally.

Retail Stores & More
While you’re at The Island, you’ll certainly want to browse the shops that offer everything from toys to accessories. Let kids create new friends at the Build-A-Bear Workshop, shop around at Smoky Mountain Sun Shades, Smoky Mountain Wheel Gift Shop, and The Island Trading Post, and get some moonshine to take home at the retail shop at the Ole Smoky Distillery. One of The Island’s newest additions is the Margaritaville Island Hotel, inspired by the life and lyrics of Jimmy Buffett.

*Store hours vary, but The Island is open from 10 a.m. to midnight daily.

Whether you’re planning your first trip or you’ve been dozens of times, finding what’s new in the Smokies will make your visit exciting and memorable! Need a comfortable place to stay while in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg? Browse our wide variety of cabins, ranging from one bedroom to large group, that will be perfect for relaxing after days at The Island and the many area attractions.


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