4.6 (11,501 Reviews)

The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel in Pigeon Forge, TN

131 The Island Drive • Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
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The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
With almost 1 million LED lights, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is a beautiful sight at night.
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
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Overview

A 200-foot observation wheel featuring stunning mountain views, The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is the centerpiece of The Island entertainment district in Pigeon Forge. The wheel stands as one of the tallest attractions in the Southeast, featuring 42 glass-enclosed gondolas with seating for up to 8 people at a time. During the evenings, riders can enjoy a mesmerizing 24,000 LED-light show.

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Good To Know

  • Glass-enclosed gondolas.
  • Stunning city and mountain views.
  • 24,000 LED light-show on Wheel.
  • One of the tallest attraction in the East.
  • Climate controlled.
  • Ride during the day for a better view of the Smokies, and at night to see the city lights.
  • Free parking just off Teaster Lane with tram to The Island.
  • Gondolas seat up to 8.
  • VIP Wheel experience available.
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Insights from Tripster's own team members
Megan Aguilar Tripster User Profile Image

Megan Aguilar

Fun experience for all ages with amazing views of Pigeon Forge. Plus, the climate controlled gondola is perfect on a hot day. They are located at The Island, so you can easily access shopping, Margaritaville Island Hotel and Margaritaville Restaurant.

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Description

Towering 200 feet-tall, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel sits at the foothills of the most visited national park in the United States – The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As the centerpiece to The Island in Pigeon Forge, it stands as one of the tallest attractions in the Southeast.

The Wheel features unparalleled views from its 42 all-glass gondolas. Each gondola is climate controlled, and can typically seat up to 6 adults or a combination of adults and children up to 8 total passengers. Enjoy scenic views of the Great Smoky Mountains during the day, or a spectacular nighttime ride.

Located just off the Pigeon Forge Parkway, The Island in Pigeon Forge is packed with things to do! Pull up a rocking chair and enjoy the beautiful Island Show Fountain or check out retail shops, restaurants and eateries, rides and games, live music, attractions, and more! Whether you came for a wedding, your honeymoon, or just a family vacation, visit us in Pigeon Forge. We're just down the road from Gatlinburg and open 10 a.m. daily year-round.
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Promotional Images (15)
The Fountain Show and The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Fun times begin here! The Fountain Show and The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
Photos from our Staff (4)
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel photo submitted by Megan Aguilar The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel photo submitted by Megan Aguilar The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel photo submitted by Megan Aguilar The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel photo submitted by Megan Aguilar
Customer Photos (46)
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel photo submitted by Victoria Dufour The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel photo submitted by Victoria Dufour The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel photo submitted by Brenda Castaneda The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel photo submitted by Kathy Ellis The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel photo submitted by Gibby Metcalf Cross
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The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel Reviews

53 Reviews
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Victoria Dufour Tripster User Profile Image
Victoria Dufour
Plaucheville, LA
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Stunning View"
June 2025 NEW
Wonderful time with the entire family with stunning views at a great price.
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Tip: White water rafting, Sky Park and the Island is a must

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Brittany Dunigan Tripster User Profile Image
Brittany Dunigan
South Shore, KY
2 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"First time"
April 2025
This was our first time riding and at first it was scary but after it went around once it wasn’t that bad. I am afraid of heights but this wasn’t bad at all. They take your picture before you ride and we ended up buying them they turned out good and very good memories
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Tip: I loved it. I definitely want to ride this again.

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Courtney Cloud Tripster User Profile Image
Courtney Cloud
Brooksville, FL
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Fun and easy"
March 2025
Fun ride and easy at the ticket office, just handed the girl my phone with the confirmation information and she took what she needed and we were on our way in seconds!
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Tip: Make sure you go get the actual print out ticket from the store before going to the ride line itself.

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Brenda C. Tripster User Profile Image
Brenda C.
Clanton, AL
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel"
January 2025
We had so much fun! Buying our tickets on Tripster helped us avoid long lines and save money as a family of 6!
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Karen Williams Tripster User Profile Image
Karen Williams
Lenoir City, TN
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Great Smoky Mountain Wheel"
September 2024
Tripster was very efficient and easy to use. We rode the wheel during the day and have some regret. Should have ridden it after dusk. Not much to see during daylight hours. Mountains are marred by city buildings and traffic
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Tip: Tripster ticket has to be redeemed at ticket box office instead of at ride.

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Kathy Ellis Tripster User Profile Image
Kathy Ellis
Robbins , TN
1 Review
"Enjoyed"
August 2024
Nice experience. Air conditioning on a hot day was great.
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Tip: Go to ticket booth first before you get in line

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CANDACE BORELLI Tripster User Profile Image
CANDACE BORELLI
CLARKSVILLE, TN
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Really cool"
August 2024
We enjoyed this ride as we rode at night and seeing the lights were stunning
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Tip: Awesome views

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Ann Ruether Tripster User Profile Image
Ann Ruether
Villa Ridge, MO
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Convenient"
May 2024
Very helpful on the phone & able to purchase tickets shortly before wanting to use!
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The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is located at 131 The Island Drive • Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
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Frequently Asked Questions about The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

How many people can fit inside a Gondola at one time?

Each Gondola can typically fit 6 adults or a combination of adults and children up to 8. There is a weight limit of 1,200 lbs.

Can pregnant women or infants ride?

The ride is a controlled, smooth experience that accommodates all people. While infants ride for free, you still need a ticket for the infant. It is not recommended that pregnant women ride but may choose to on their own accord.

Can I bring my pet on the ride?

Sorry, we like those family members but do not permit animals of any kind. Can I wait to ride alone in my own Gondola? Typically, we have many riders patiently waiting for their turn to ride. As a result, occasionally you may be required to ride with other parties to accommodate those patiently waiting to ride.

Do you permit food or drink on the ride?

In an effort to help keep all gondolas clean and safe, we do not allow eating or drinking on the ride.

Do you have wheelchair access?

Yes, we are able to access the Gondolas with a wheelchair. Disabled persons must be able to enter on their own or be with a companion for assistance.

How long is a ride?

Ride times vary but are a minimum of 3 revolutions.

Can I reserve a Gondola for a specific time?

We do not accept reservations. All rides are served on a first come first served basis.

Can I buy a souvenir from my experience on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel?

Yes! No experience is complete without a visit to our Great Smoky Mountain Wheel gift shop located across from the exit. There are a variety of souvenirs and gifts for the memories to continue.

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