Margaritaville Island Hotel in Pigeon Forge: Paradise in the Smokies
Quick Takeaways: The Margaritaville Island Hotel offers an unforgettable island escape right in the heart of Pigeon Forge! Enjoy friendly service, a delightful atmosphere, and prime access to The Island’s attractions. Our stay was enhanced by comfortable amenities, complimentary margaritas and dessert, and an incredible “Passport of Savings” with free tickets to top attractions. It’s the perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and vibrant fun for your next Smoky Mountain getaway.
If you’re anything like me, you love the magic of Dollywood, the charm of Gatlinburg, and the endless fun that Pigeon Forge and Sevierville offer. But what if I told you there’s a place where you can experience all that Smoky Mountain excitement AND get a taste of island paradise?
My husband and I recently discovered the ultimate getaway at the Margaritaville Island Hotel in Pigeon Forge, TN. If you’re looking for a stay packed with fun, convenience, and a touch of unexpected magic right in the middle of The Island’s vibrant energy, this is your perfect choice. From our delightful balcony fountain views to sipping margaritas by the rooftop pool, every moment here felt truly unforgettable.
Location, Location, Location: Right in The Island Action!

You’ll find two fantastic Margaritaville properties in The Island area, but the Margaritaville Island Hotel is the one that puts you right in the heart of all the excitement. While the Margaritaville Island Inn is just a short, pleasant walk away, the Island Hotel boasts the ultimate address: inside The Island in Pigeon Forge.
This means you’re literally steps from the hotel entrance to The Island’s incredible array of shops, thrilling rides, and diverse restaurants.
Imagine stepping out your door and instantly having access to the iconic Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, unique boutiques perfect for souvenir hunting, and countless delicious dining options. It’s the ultimate convenience for exploring Pigeon Forge attractions.
Check-In: A Warm Island Welcome
From the moment we stepped through the doors, the check-in process was an absolute breeze. All the staff members we met were incredibly friendly and smiling, instantly making us feel welcome and excited for our island escape. This warm, hospitable start truly set the tone for a fantastic visit. As they handed us our room keys, we also received a few fun surprises:
- Two complimentary margarita vouchers
- One complimentary dessert coupon
- Two bottled waters
- And a very special Passport of Savings (we’ll tell you all about that amazing perk below!

Parking: Stress-Free Access to The Island
One of the often-overlooked but crucial aspects of a great hotel stay is hassle-free parking, especially when you’re in a bustling spot like The Island! Thankfully, the Margaritaville Island Hotel has you covered. Forget parking out in The Island’s general lots and trudging to your hotel; here, you’ll find dedicated parking options right at the property.

The hotel manages three convenient lots. The first two are exclusively for their valet service, offering the ultimate in convenience. The third lot is reserved for self-parking guests, meaning you’re always close to the action.
You have choices too: overnight valet parking is available for $25 per night, plus tax, while self-parking comes in at a budget-friendly $10 per night, plus tax. Each guest room gets one vehicle slot, and if you’re in a two-bedroom suite, you’re covered with space for up to two vehicles. Just remember, overnight parking in The Island’s general lot isn’t allowed, and unfortunately, they can’t accommodate trailers or recreational vehicles.
Let’s Talk Perks!

Our stay was filled with delightful surprises, starting right at check-in. We received two margarita coupons – talk about a warm welcome! We opted to redeem them at the Chill Bar by the rooftop pool, and the decision was easy once we saw the breathtaking, VIP views of The Island and surrounding mountains. Sipping a refreshing margarita high above the action was pure bliss. We also got a complimentary dessert voucher, which was a lovely extra touch (just remember it’s one per room, so choose wisely!).
And speaking of dessert, you HAVE to try the Caramel Cheesecake from Fins Bar & Chill. Honestly, my husband and I agreed it was quite possibly the best caramel cheesecake we have ever tasted. We loved it so much! We grabbed it to go and savored every decadent bite on our room’s private balcony while watching the fountain show and all the action going on below us in The Island!

The Island Destination Fee
There is a $20 per night Island Destination Fee at Margaritaville Island Hotel. This fee covers essentials like high-speed WiFi in your room and full access to the inviting resort pool and fitness center. You’ll also appreciate convenient onsite services like bell services and the lively live entertainment that adds to the island vibe. Plus, complimentary bottled water in your room is a nice touch. But the real perks go beyond the basics!

Remember those two welcome margaritas we mentioned? They’re included in this fee, giving you VIP views of The Island Fountain Show from the Chill Bar. You’ll also unlock exclusive discounts and tastings at select Island shops – think delicious samples at the Beef Jerky Experience, Ole Smoky Moonshine, Tennessee Stud Cider Co., Pepper Palace, Bootleggers Winery, Byrd’s Famous Cookies, and The Bake Sale. And don’t forget the over $150 in attraction and dining offers available via the concierge desk, along with discounted day passes to the Pigeon Forge Community Center. It’s all about enhancing your island adventure!
Rooftop Pool Paradise
One of our favorite parts of the hotel was the rooftop pool deck. With a gorgeous pool, plenty of seating, a cozy covered sitting area with a TV, and a full-service bar (Chill Bar), it felt like a private retreat above the crowds.
I highly recommend using your margarita vouchers up here for drinks with a view—definitely the best spot to enjoy them in my opinion.



Indulge and Unwind: Spa & Cabanas
For ultimate relaxation, hotel guests receive 20% off services at the St. Somewhere Spa. Imagine a relaxing massage or facial after a day of exploring!

The rooftop pool area isn’t just for drinks; it’s a beautifully designed space with plenty of seating. For an elevated experience, you can even rent a private pool cabana. These cabanas are packed with amenities for a luxurious day by the pool, including:
- Full or half-day rentals
- Sofa and chaise lounge seating
- Refrigerator with refreshing bottled water
- Towels
- VIP food and beverage service delivered right to your cabana.
- Plus, the larger cabanas even come with a TV for your entertainment!
For pricing, small cabanas (holding up to 4 people) start at $95 plus tax, while large cabanas (accommodating up to 6 people) start at $150 plus tax. If you know you want to book a cabana, you can do that ahead of time online before your stay!
Room with a View: Fountain Fun!

Our Fountain View Room 256 provided a spectacular backdrop to our entire stay. The rhythmic, dancing waters, synchronized with music, created a captivating show that played frequently throughout the day and evening. It’s genuinely awesome to watch, especially while sipping on a warm cup of coffee from the in-room Keurig (which, by the way, offers a great selection!) or enjoying that incredible cheesecake.
A quick heads-up for light sleepers: This hotel is vibrant and energetic. While the fountain view is undeniably stunning, it’s not quiet. The fountain shows come with loud music, and there’s often live music from a nearby patio that can go on past midnight. If peace and quiet are paramount for your Pigeon Forge lodging, a river view room here might be a more serene option. But honestly, the fountain view experience is a highlight that’s hard to beat!

What’s Inside the Room?

Beyond the amazing views, our room felt like a true oasis. Comfortable beds ensured a great night’s sleep, perfect after an action-packed day at Dollywood or hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. And let’s talk about the shower – it was absolutely amazing! Not only was the water pressure fantastic, but it was also incredibly spacious, which always makes a difference. We loved having the in-room refrigerator and microwave for storing leftovers from The Island’s many delicious restaurants or heating up snacks. Plus, if you’re visiting in the cooler months, you’ll adore the beautiful fireplace in the room, available from October through April, adding such a cozy ambiance to your stay.
Just a small tip: we didn’t find a hairdryer in our room, so you might want to pack your own if you need one. And yes, room service is available for those nights you just want to relax and dine in!



Here is a quick list of what was provided in the room:
- A seasonal fireplace (available October through April)
- A Keurig with a variety of pods
- A microwave and mini fridge
- Comfortable beds
- An amazing spa-style shower
- Room service available
- Two complimentary bottles of water
- Coffee provided
- No hairdryer in the room—so bring one if you need it!
The room was clean, tropical, and had just the right mix of luxury and laid-back island vibes.
The Ultimate Savings: Your Passport to Fun!
One of the pleasant surprises we encountered, and a big value-add to our stay, was the “Passport of Savings” we received from the concierge desk. This incredible perk transformed our visit into an adventure! It included one complimentary ticket to each of these popular attractions:
- The Wheel at The Island (a must-do for incredible views!)
- Sky Fly (Disney Fans: It is very similar to Soarin at Epcot)
- Lost Mine Mountain Coaster (a thrill ride in the Smokies!)
- Lost Mine Mini Golf
- And even the Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show!


Seriously, this “Passport” alone provides tremendous value and an instant itinerary of fun, putting many of Pigeon Forge’s best activities right at your fingertips. As if that wasn’t enough, we also received a handy book of coupons offering discounts at various shops and restaurants throughout The Island, helping us save even more on dining and souvenirs while exploring The Island!
A Touch of Disney Magic (Yes, Really!)
As a huge Disney Resorts fan, I’m always on the lookout for those little touches that make a stay truly special. I was immediately struck by something nostalgic: the signature scent in the hallways. It smelled so much like Disney’s Beach Club Resort. From that moment on, I knew we were in for something special. This sensory detail instantly transported us to a state of vacation bliss, setting the perfect mood for our getaway to this Pigeon Forge, TN hotel!

The Highlights

- Caramel Cheesecake from Fins Bar & Chill: Best. Ever.
- Room with a View
- Starbucks in the lobby for that early-morning fuel
- Clean, well-maintained, and stylish interior
- Easy access to rides, dining, and shops without ever needing to drive
- Soft beds, plenty of pillows, and a room that truly felt like a retreat
Final Thoughts on Our Island Escape
The Margaritaville Island Hotel in Pigeon Forge genuinely delivers a unique and unforgettable experience for any visitor. Its unparalleled location right within The Island, combined with luxurious amenities, a vibrant atmosphere, and those delightful touches of island magic (plus those subtle, Disney-esque scents!), make it a truly memorable destination.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Dollywood, exploring the beauty of Gatlinburg, or diving into the endless entertainment of Pigeon Forge, this hotel serves as a fantastic base. It truly embodies the spirit of “changing latitudes, changing attitudes” and offers a refreshing escape. We can’t wait to return to this little piece of paradise in the Smokies!


Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Margaritaville Island Hotel located?
It’s located inside The Island in Pigeon Forge, giving you direct access to shops, restaurants, rides, and attractions—just steps from your room.
What’s the difference between Margaritaville Island Hotel and Margaritaville Island Inn?
The Island Hotel is located right within The Island complex, while the Island Inn is a short walk away. The Hotel offers more upscale amenities, direct access to The Island, and a rooftop pool and bar.
Is there a resort fee?
Yes, there is a $20/night Island Destination Fee, which includes WiFi, rooftop pool access, two complimentary margaritas, bottled water, fitness center access, entertainment, and exclusive discounts around The Island.
What is the “Passport of Savings”?
Guests receive this at check-in from the concierge. It includes one complimentary ticket per guest to top Island attractions like The Wheel, Sky Fly, and more—plus coupons for local dining and shopping.
Is the rooftop pool open year-round?
The rooftop pool is seasonal, but the Chill Bar and rooftop seating area may still be available depending on weather and staffing. Check with the hotel directly for current hours during your stay.
Are there food and drink options on-site?
Yes! The hotel features Fins Bar & Chill, which serves food and drinks (don’t miss the caramel cheesecake!), and there’s also a Starbucks conveniently located in the lobby.
Is the hotel family-friendly?
Absolutely! The location, rooftop pool, and included attraction tickets make it a great choice for families visiting Dollywood or the Smokies.
Are pets allowed?
No, the Margaritaville Island Hotel is not pet-friendly. Service animals are, of course, welcome.