A 23-acre family entertainment district in the heart of Pigeon Forge, The Island in Pigeon Forge is packed with kid-friendly things to do. The centerpiece is the 200-foot Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, with climate-controlled gondolas offering views of the Smokies. There is also a three-story ropes course with zip lines, an immersive flying-theater ride (SkyFly: Soar America), a mini-coaster, a pendulum ride (Dance Party 360), and the free choreographed Island Show Fountain. The Island is open 365 days a year with free parking and free admission, so families can walk around, shop, and watch the fountain shows without spending a dime. If you want rides, the unlimited rides wristband covers all of the outdoor rides (including the Wheel and ropes course) for 48 hours at one price.

Dining on site includes Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, Margaritaville Restaurant, Timberwood Grill, and Mellow Mushroom. In early fall, Jurassic Adventure (a free walk-through with life-size animatronic dinosaurs) has run from March through mid-September in recent years — check the events calendar for the season’s exact dates.

It’s about a 45–60 minute drive from Maryville, making it an easy family day trip or a fun stop if you’re already heading to the Smokies.