Blog for Zipline Attraction in the Smoky Mountains
Located in Pigeon Forge, TN and near Gatlinburg and Sevierville.
Family Activities Near The Island in Pigeon Forge
By Ross Bodhi Ogle
Posted on March 10, 2026
The Island in Pigeon Forge has become one of the most popular gathering spots for families visiting the Smoky Mountains. Conveniently located along the Parkway, the area combines shopping, dining, entertainment, scenic attractions, and family-friendly experiences all within walking distance of one another.
Many visitors enjoy The Island because it creates a relaxed atmosphere where families can explore at their own pace while still finding plenty to do throughout the day. Parents can browse shops, children can enjoy attractions and games, and everyone can stop for snacks, meals, and scenic views along the way.
One of the biggest advantages of staying near The Island is that visitors are also close to many other attractions throughout Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and the surrounding Smoky Mountains. This makes it easy to combine entertainment, outdoor activities, scenic drives, and relaxing mountain experiences during the same vacation.
You can also explore our Things to Do in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge & Sevierville Guide for more Smoky Mountain vacation ideas.
Ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
One of the most recognizable attractions at The Island is the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
The large observation wheel gives families an opportunity to enjoy:
- Panoramic mountain views
- Views of Pigeon Forge
- Family photo opportunities
- Scenic sunset rides
- Relaxing sightseeing experiences
Because the ride moves slowly and smoothly, it works well for families wanting scenic views without intense thrills.
Evening rides become especially popular when the Parkway lights begin glowing throughout Pigeon Forge.
Enjoy the Island Show Fountain
The Island Show Fountain remains one of the most relaxing and family-friendly attractions in the area.
Visitors often stop to enjoy:
- Music and water shows
- Relaxing seating areas
- Family gathering spots
- Evening atmosphere
- Casual entertainment between activities
Because the fountain area sits at the center of The Island, it naturally becomes a place where families slow down and take a break during the day.
Explore Shops and Specialty Stores
The Island includes a wide variety of stores ranging from Smoky Mountain souvenirs and specialty foods to toys, candy shops, and unique gifts.
Families enjoy browsing:
- Sweet shops
- Local gift stores
- Toy stores
- Specialty snack shops
- Mountain-themed stores
The walkable layout makes it easy to explore without feeling rushed.
Try Family-Friendly Restaurants
The Island area offers several family-friendly dining options ranging from casual meals and quick snacks to sit-down restaurants and dessert shops.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Mountain comfort food
- Sweet treats
- Ice cream shops
- Casual family dining
- Outdoor seating areas
Many families appreciate having multiple dining choices within walking distance while spending the day exploring Pigeon Forge.
You may also enjoy our guide to the best breakfast spots in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Visit Nearby Family Attractions
One reason The Island works so well for Smoky Mountain vacations is because it sits close to many additional attractions throughout Pigeon Forge.
Nearby family activities include:
- Mini golf
- Mountain coasters
- Interactive museums
- Arcades
- Go-karts
- Dinner theaters
Families can easily spend a full day exploring the area without running out of things to do.
Take a Scenic Drive After Visiting The Island
After spending time at The Island, many visitors enjoy balancing the busy Parkway atmosphere with scenic Smoky Mountain drives.
Popular nearby scenic routes include:
- Foothills Parkway
- Little River Road
- Wears Valley Road
- Newfound Gap Road
These drives provide opportunities to enjoy mountain overlooks, rivers, waterfalls, and peaceful outdoor scenery throughout the Smokies.
You may also want to explore our guide to scenic mountain drives near Pigeon Forge.
Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Island also provides convenient access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park through nearby Gatlinburg.
Families visiting the national park often enjoy:
- Scenic overlooks
- Waterfall hikes
- Wildlife viewing
- Picnic areas
- Mountain photography
- Short family hikes
This combination of entertainment and outdoor scenery helps create balanced Smoky Mountain vacations for many families.
You may also want to explore our Great Smoky Mountains National Park Guide.
Add Outdoor Adventure to Your Pigeon Forge Vacation
Many visitors enjoy adding one memorable outdoor activity to their Smoky Mountain itinerary.
At Smoky Mountain Ziplines, guests can soar above the forest canopy near Pigeon Forge while enjoying incredible mountain scenery and professionally guided outdoor adventure.
The experience pairs naturally with family entertainment, scenic drives, shopping, and sightseeing throughout the Smokies.
You may also enjoy our post on why families love ziplining vacations in the Smoky Mountains.
Why Families Love Staying Near The Island
The Island remains popular because it combines convenience, entertainment, dining, shopping, and scenic atmosphere into one central location.
Families appreciate:
- Walkable attractions
- Flexible schedules
- Family-friendly entertainment
- Convenient dining
- Easy access to nearby attractions
It also works well as a starting point for exploring the rest of Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Plan a Fun Family Day in Pigeon Forge
The Island in Pigeon Forge offers one of the best combinations of entertainment, relaxation, and family-friendly activities in the Smoky Mountains.
Whether your family enjoys scenic rides, shopping, outdoor adventure, mountain drives, or simply walking together through the heart of Pigeon Forge, the area provides countless ways to create memorable vacation experiences.
Take your time, explore at your own pace, and enjoy everything the Smoky Mountains have to offer.
