Hey, y'all! My best friend Katie and I recently took a little road trip down to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee to stay at the Margaritaville Island Hotel. While I knew we were in for a treat, I had no idea just how fabulous it would be. I'm excited to tell you all about my experience today!
This post is in partnership with the Margaritaville Island Hotel. Thank you all for supporting those that make JCP Eats possible. All opinions expressed are my own. Post originally published March 2020, updated July 2020.
Margaritaville Island Hotel: Staying In Pigeon Forge, TN
If you have followed me throughout the years, you probably know one thing about me: I'm a Parrothead. I live, breathe, and worship all things Jimmy Buffett -- though, regretfully, this was my first time staying at a Margaritaville property.
After pulling into the Island, I was immediately impressed. It is truly a self-contained area: there's family fun, restaurants, bars, shopping, lodging... what more could you need? It's the perfect atmosphere to take a vacation, as it is conducive to relaxation.
Located near the back of the Island, Katie and I pulled into the valet of the hotel - and from there, it was go time!
Enjoy learning about the Margaritaville Island Hotel (Pigeon Forge, TN)? Check out my other blog posts here!
Upon Checking In
The lobby proved to be a Parrothead's oasis -- lodged in Tennessee! Jimmy Buffett was playing, margaritas were flowing in the Changes In Latitudes Lobby Bar, and the desk staff were both friendly and kind.
Oh, and speaking of margaritas - did I mention that I traveled to the resort for National Margarita Day?! How fabulous is that!
The Room
The room we had was, to understate, amazing. It had a fountain view (highly recommend), was ginormous, and had all of the extras: a fireplace, an in-room margarita machine (yes, I know!), a rainfall shower, and so much more.
On-Property Dining + Drinks
On the premises of the property, guests can choose from drinking/having light bites at the Changes in Latitudes Lobby Bar, relaxing at the Chill Bar and Rooftop Pool, getting a caffeine fix at the Margaritaville Coffee Shop, while also being steps away from the Maragaritaville Restaurant.
Enjoy learning about the Margaritaville Island Hotel (Pigeon Forge, TN)? Check out my other blog posts here!
St. Somewhere Spa
Speaking of being steps away: you must also try the St. Somewhere Spa. This was my first time ever having a facial and it was... life-changing.
Oh, and it was only made better by having a pedicure + being served a Landshark (how Parrothead is that?!).
The Island, Pigeon Forge
While on the Island, Katie and I also had to try some of the other food options.
We first ventured to Paula Deen's Family Kitchen, which is a southerner's dream. All meals are served family style, giving guests their respective choice of meats and vegetables. While not a part of the unlimited meal, I do recommend that you start with appetizers -- Paula Deen's fried okra is the best I've ever had & her seafood dip is what dreams are made of.
Enjoy learning about the Margaritaville Island Hotel (Pigeon Forge, TN)? Check out my other blog posts here!
Enjoy learning about the Margaritaville Island Hotel (Pigeon Forge, TN)? Check out my other blog posts here!
We chose to have fried chicken, fried catfish, and chicken and dumplings -- and, of course, we had to have macaroni and cheese, salad, and broccoli casserole on the side. My favorite part of the meal = the cheddar biscuits (seriously sinful); oh, and dessert is also included!
Another fantastic dining option is the Timberwood Grill, which is located near the Ferris wheel. This lodge-themed restaurant serves some seriously delicious bites: however, above all else, I recommend ordering the fried shrimp. They're butterflied, huge, and downright delicious with cocktail sauce. I'm craving them at the mere memory!
Staying at the Margaritaville Island Hotel
The best part of the trip was getting to spend time with Katie. I think that's what I love most about vacations in the Great Smoky Mountains -- it's a perfect location to create life-long memories. That is certainly achievable at the Margaritaville Island Hotel -- especially when sitting on the patio of the room, enjoying the fountain show, and sipping on a marg (or two).
Learn More
For more information on the Margaritaville Island Hotel, click here.
For more information on the Island at Pigeon Forge, click here.
Y’all come back now, ya hear?
My best,
JC
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Enjoy learning about the Margaritaville Island Hotel (Pigeon Forge, TN)? Check out my other blog posts here!
Susan T. Wells
You make places very visual; your description of eats are very tempting. I enjoy your blog!