<A brand new retail and entertainment center is set to open in Pigeon Forge later this month.The Island in Pigeon Forge includes restaurants, shopping, attractions, and a 200-foot-high observationwheel offering spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains. It will open to the public on June 21."The Island in Pigeon Forge is one of the most unique and family-friendly destinations in the country. It appeals to all ages," said Bob McManus, a partner in The Island development. "Visitors will make lifelong memories here while experiencing the special hospitality of the Smokies."The development is located on property that was originally slated to be called Belle Island. It was supposed to be a large shopping and entertainment district, but its original developers filed for bankruptcy. Developers Darby Campbell and Bob McManus, partners in LeConte Village LLC., <a href="http://www.wbir.com/news/article/192238/2/The-Island-at-Pigeon-Forge-set-to-open-in-Spring-2013?odyssey=tab" target="_blank">purchased the former Belle Island property</a> from Regions Bank for $10 million dollars in November 2011.Visitors to Pigeon Forge have seen the construction of the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, which is the largest observation wheel inTennessee. Riders board gondolas which seat 6 to 8 people for a 20 minute ride.Phase I of the 22-acre development will open first, and features businesses like Auntie Anne's, Cinnabon, Island Yogurt, The Fudgery, Poynor's Pommes Frites, Timberwood Grill, Mellow Mushroom, Dude's Daiquiris, Arcade City, The Flying Horse Carousel, The Euro-Bungy Dome, The Island Trading Post and The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel Gift Shop. Phase 2 will begin construction in the fall and is expected to open in spring 2014 opening with a $2.7 million show fountain covering 11,000 square feet, and a 132 room four star hotel.<"The development of the Island has taken the vision, commitment and hard work of many people and we are thrilled that opening day is upon us." McManus said. "We are extremely proud to welcome guests to one of the most exciting developments in the Southeast."<For more information, please visit <a href="http://islandinpigeonforge.com/" target="_blank">www.islandinpigeonforge.com</a> and or see the development's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TheIslandinPigeonForge.<
The Island in Pigeon Forge set to open June 21
The Island in Pigeon Forge includes restaurants, shopping, attractions, and a 200-foot-high observationwheel offering spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains. It will open to the public on June 21.
