One of the most iconic attractions in the Smokies, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, is getting a complete refresh this spring with massive enhancements! While the 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel at The Island in Pigeon Forge is already a breathtaking sight to behold, the popular ride will become even more impressive with a brand new $1 million lighting package that takes the visual experience to another level! Here’s everything you need to know about the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel Glow Up:
Enhancement Project Details
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel Glow Up is a massive enhancement project where the 200-foot observation wheel at The Island in Pigeon Forge will receive a complete refresh, ensuring it continues to shine as the centerpiece of the Pigeon Forge skyline! As part of the enhancement, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel will be outfitted with a brand-new, $1 million lighting package. With a state-of-the-art control system and lights that are more visible in direct sunlight, this enhancement introduces dynamic new visual capabilities that will elevate the atmosphere and bring a spectacular, fresh glow to The Island both day and night!
Temporary Wheel Hours During the Renovation
If you’re worried about the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel being closed during your Pigeon Forge vacation, you’ll be happy to know that the attraction will be open throughout the renovation! However, keep in mind that it will be open on a reduced schedule until the project is completed. The temporary hours for the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel (until May 11, 2026) are 5 PM to close on Mondays through Fridays, 10 AM to close on Saturdays (regular hours), and 12 PM to close on Sundays. All other attractions, retail shops, and restaurants at The Island in Pigeon Forge will continue to open at their normal times during the wheel renovation.
About the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel completed its maiden turn on June 21, 2013, and it features all-glass gondolas that seat up to 8 guests and offer an unparalleled view of the Smokies. It remains one of the tallest attractions in the Southeast and offers a delightful experience both during the day and at night! The attraction has been the backdrop for countless family memories and perfect Smoky Mountain evenings for over a decade, so the renovation is taking that iconic experience to the next level, so it continues to be the highlight of every Pigeon Forge vacation!
Where to Stay: The Best Cabins Near Pigeon Forge
Stay just minutes away from the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel with a vacation at our cabins in the Smokies! We offer a wide range of comfortable cabins to meet your needs, including 1-bedroom cabins for couples to multi-bedroom cabins for large families and groups of friends! While staying with us, enjoy all types of fantastic amenities, including private decks with scenic mountain views, fully equipped kitchens, soothing hot tubs, game rooms, and so much more!
Check out all of our Smoky Mountain cabin rentals today to stay close to The Island in Pigeon Forge and be one of the first guests to experience the enhanced Great Smoky Mountain Wheel! We look forward to welcoming you to the Smokies!
