Do You Have to Pay to Get Into The Island in Pigeon Forge? A Complete Guide for Visitors

If you're planning a trip to Pigeon Forge The Island is likely on your list of must-visit attractions. With its lively atmosphere, diverse entertainment options, and family-friendly activities, The Island in Pigeon Forge offers something for everyone. However, one common question that many visitors have is whether there’s an entry fee to access The Island. The good news? You don’t have to pay to enter The Island in Pigeon Forge! But there are some details worth knowing before you go. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting The Island, including what’s free, what costs extra, and how to make the most of your visit.

Free Entry to The Island

The Island in Pigeon Forge is an open-air entertainment complex that welcomes visitors with free entry. You can walk around, explore, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere without having to pay a single dime. This makes The Island an excellent destination for families, couples, and groups looking for a fun, budget-friendly outing in Pigeon Forge.

• What’s Included: Walking through the complex, you can enjoy the beautifully landscaped surroundings, lively music, and the overall festive ambiance. You can also take in the sights of The Island Show Fountain, a choreographed water and light show that takes place every 30 minutes and is free to watch.

Pro Tip: Arrive early in the day or later in the evening to avoid peak crowds, especially during weekends and holidays. The Island can get quite busy, but it’s worth exploring at your own pace.

Attractions and Activities: What Costs Extra?

While entry to The Island is free, there are plenty of attractions and activities that do require a fee. Here’s a breakdown of some popular attractions and what you can expect to pay:

1. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel:
   • Cost: Ticket prices typically range from $10 to $15 per person, with discounts available for children, seniors, and groups.
   • What to Expect: This 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel offers stunning views of the Smoky Mountains and the surrounding area. Each climate-controlled gondola provides a comfortable and scenic ride, making it a must-do experience.
2. Rides and Games:
   • Cost: Prices vary depending on the attraction. Rides like the Flying Horse Carousel, The Island Ropes Course, and the Thunderdome offer individual tickets or wristbands for unlimited access.
   • What to Expect: The Island is packed with fun rides and games for all ages. Whether you’re into arcade games, bumper cars, or ropes courses, you’ll find plenty of entertainment options to keep you busy.
3. The Island Show Fountain:
   • Cost: Free
   • What to Expect: The Island Show Fountain is one of the highlights of the complex, offering a dazzling display of water, lights, and music. The show runs every 30 minutes, so you can enjoy it multiple times during your visit.
4. Retail Shops:
   • Cost: Prices vary by store
   • What to Expect: The Island features a variety of retail shops, offering everything from unique souvenirs and gifts to clothing, accessories, and specialty items. While browsing is free, you might be tempted to purchase a few mementos to take home.
5. Dining and Snacks:
   • Cost: Prices vary by restaurant
   • What to Expect: The Island offers a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. Whether you’re craving a quick snack, a sweet treat, or a full meal, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning to enjoy multiple attractions, consider purchasing a wristband that offers unlimited access to certain rides and activities. This can be a cost-effective way to experience everything The Island has to offer.

Special Events and Seasonal Activities

Throughout the year, The Island hosts a variety of special events and seasonal activities, many of which are free to attend. From live music performances to holiday celebrations, there’s always something happening at The Island.

• Holiday Events: During the holiday season, The Island is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with festive decorations, holiday lights, and special events like Christmas tree lighting ceremonies and visits from Santa Claus.
• Live Entertainment: The Island features live music and entertainment throughout the year. Catch a performance at the Ole Smoky Moonshine stage or enjoy live bands playing in the central plaza.

Pro Tip: Check The Island’s event calendar before your visit to see what special events and activities are scheduled during your stay. This can help you plan your visit and make the most of your time.

Parking at The Island

Parking is free at The Island. Parking is available on-site, and there is a tram available to avoid long distances.

• Cost: Free
• What to Expect: The parking lot is conveniently located near the entrance to The Island, making it easy to access the complex. Once you’ve parked, you can either walk to The Island or take a free tram that runs regularly between the parking lot and the entrance.

Pro Tip: Parking is first come first serve, so arrive early or late in the day for the best parking spots.

The Island in Pigeon Forge is a fantastic destination for visitors of all ages, offering a wide range of attractions, dining options, and entertainment. Best of all, entry to The Island is completely free, allowing you to explore and enjoy the lively atmosphere without breaking the bank. While some activities and attractions do come with a fee, there are plenty of ways to experience the magic of The Island on any budget. So, whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, make sure to include The Island in your Pigeon Forge itinerary for a memorable and fun-filled adventure!