The Smoky Mountain area has been known for its tried-and-true things to do over the years, from riding roller coasters at Dollywood to finding the perfect souvenir at Three Bears General Store to enjoying breakfast at The Old Mill Restaurant. Are you hoping to discover new activities and spots that can become a part of your traditions in the Smoky Mountains? We’re here to help. We’ve created a guide to the top new things to do in Pigeon and Gatlinburg that have recently opened or are opening soon.
New Family-Friendly Attractions
Bringing the whole family to the Smoky Mountains? These Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg attractions are great for all ages.
Sweets and Play
Sweets and Play took over the Beyond the Lens building on the Pigeon Forge Parkway, opening to the public at the end of April 2026. If you’re looking for the perfect combination of sweets and fun, this is the place for you. In addition to a massive candy shop, this attraction features one of the area’s largest claw machine collections, double-ticket arcade payouts, and blacklight mini golf that has neon fairways, glowing obstacles, and 18 holes of excitement. Plus, don’t miss your chance to hop on the world-famous Flyride, a fully immersive flight experience with motion seats.
Sweet Spot
Still haven’t satisfied your sweet tooth? Sweet Spot is another can’t-miss attraction opening in Pigeon Forge. At this family-friendly attraction, you’ll find experiences you won’t get anywhere else in the area. It offers PGA Golf & HitTrax baseball simulations, Chimney Cake ice cream cones, mini golf, and more. It’s expected to open sometime in late spring or summer of 2026. Sweet Spot is located in the previous Memories Theater building on the Pigeon Forge Parkway.
Slick City Action Park
For a one-of-a-kind adventure in the Smoky Mountains, you don’t want to skip a visit to Slick City Action Park! Slated to open in July 2026, this indoor attraction brings the first indoor slide and air court park to Pigeon Forge. There are more than 20 thrilling slides, air courts, arcade games, a candy shop, and more. Slick City is located in the old TopJump building on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge.
Ripley’s Venture Realm
Get ready to test your Jurassic survival skills at Ripley’s Venture Realm in Gatlinburg! This new experience opened at the beginning of June 2026 and provides big, ferocious fun. Using Enterverse™ Mixed Reality, guests can walk freely through Ripley’s Aquarium plaza as these prehistoric creatures walk alongside them. The life-sized dinosaurs see you, react to you, and share your world in real time.
Mini Golf & More
What’s one activity families love the most? Mini golf! When it comes to new things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, mini golf takes the cake. In addition to the mini golf activities at Sweet Spot and Sweets and Play mentioned above, Parrot Mountain Mini-Golf is coming soon to Gatlinburg, right next to their interactive shop downtown. Scooby Doo Mystery Putt also recently opened their second putt-putt course, now offering 36 holes of family fun. Also coming soon to the area is Dragon X Indoor Golf. Rather than mini golf, Dragon X is expected to provide a unique indoor golf experience. It’s located on the Pigeon Forge Parkway next to Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que.
New Things to Do for Adults
While the area is home to so many exciting activities for all ages, there are also new things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg that are geared towards adults.
Riley Green’s Duck Blind Bar
Calling all country music fans! Riley Green’s Duck Blind Bar is coming to Gatlinburg. Joining the ranks of Blake Shelton’s Ole Red and Jason Aldean’s Kitchen & Rooftop Bar, this new space will offer a blend of country music, curated spirits, and a high-energy environment. It will be located above Tennessee Shine Co. in downtown Gatlinburg. No official opening date has been set.
The Hatfield & McCoy Heritage Center
Have you been to the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud? Then it’s time to learn more about the real families who inspired this show in the Smokies. The Hatfield & McCoy Heritage Center allows you to do just that. The experience was previously opened in April, but temporarily closed shortly after to move to a bigger and better location. It will bring history to life with immersive exhibits, authentic artifacts, and interactive storytelling. An exact reopening date has not yet been set, but the new location is 107 Old Mill Ave. in Pigeon Forge.
Jersey Hustle Comedy Club
In the mood for laughter? You’ll love the new addition of Jersey Hustle Comedy Club! This new comedy club is located in the same shopping center as Dave & Buster’s in Sevierville and has plans to open in late spring 2026. It will become the spot for live comedy and nonstop entertainment, with plans to welcome national headliners, rising stars, and local favorites.
New Shops
Hoping to do some shopping while you’re in the area? These new shops have you covered.
The Funky Random Antique Exchange
Where are all our antique lovers at? There’s a new antique and collectible vendor mall open now in Sevierville, TN! It features more than 40 curated vendors that offer collectibles and so much more. Browse incredible booths for vintage and antique finds you’ll treasure forever. You can find The Funky Random Antique Exchange at 725 Parkway in Sevierville.
Lucille’s General Store
Looking for more traditional souvenirs? Head to Lucille’s General Store! Located in the former Uncle Lem’s building, Lucille’s is about to be your favorite stop in Pigeon Forge. It blends classic Smoky Mountain charm with a family-friendly experience, offering both a retail shop and a food shop. Its mix of merchandise and an inviting ice cream concept frames it as a place to browse, gather, and spend time with loved ones. There’s even an outdoor patio with comfortable seating where you can enjoy your food or open your souvenirs!
Tennessee Handcrafted
To browse the work of local East Tennessee artists and craftsmen, visit Tennessee Handcrafted! You’ll find one-of-a-kind paintings, sculptures, woodworking, pottery, jewelry, and more. Plus, you’ll find specialty foods as well! Tennessee Handcrafted is located at 2430 Teaster Lane in Pigeon Forge.
New Places to Eat
Of course, you’re bound to work up an appetite while you’re in the Smokies! Whether you’re in the mood for BBQ, breakfast, or dessert, you’ll find it all. It’s no secret that trying new restaurants is one of the best things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg!
Bobby Jacks BBQ
If you’re in the mood for real Tennessee BBQ, you won’t want to miss the chance to stop by Bobby Jack’s BBQ. This Sevierville restaurant offers signature meats that are smoked low and slow for a deep, rich flavor and fall-apart tenderness. Choose from dine-in, take-out, or bulk to-go options. Fall-off-the-bone ribs, prime brisket, and classic BBQ sandwiches are just some of the things you’ll discover on the menu. Bobby Jack’s BBQ is located in the old Fort Worth Texas Kitchen in Sevierville.
La Créme Cheesecakes
Have a sweet tooth? Don’t skip a visit to La Creme Cheesecakes in Gatlinburg! This new shop offers homemade cheesecakes crafted with love, luxury, and the richest ingredients. Order by the slice, or get a whole cake for a special occasion! Strawberry Crunch, Banana Pudding, and Cookie Butter Cheesecake are just a few of the options you may find when you visit. If you need a caffeine fix, you’ll love their 32 oz. coffee buckets with a variety of flavor options! This specialty cheesecake shop is located at 170 Glades Rd. in Gatlinburg.
Mountain Breakfast
Start the day off right at this new breakfast restaurant in Gatlinburg! Dig into crave-worthy creations in a modern setting that offers creekside views. Whether you choose to dine downstairs or in a cozy upstairs space, you’re in for a treat. The menu features everything from savory comfort plates to sweet breakfast places, plus brunch and lunch options! It’s located at 544 E Parkway in Gatlinburg.
Pigeon Toad Tavern
Coming soon to the Mountain Mile in Pigeon Forge is Pigeon Toad Tavern, a new family-friendly sports watch bar. It’s located in the old Listening Room location and is said to be the first sports bar in the country with wall-to-wall microLED TVs. Get ready for a 4-sided jumbotron, a 162” screen over the bar, and a menu that will have everyone coming back for more. An opening date has not yet been announced.
More Things to Do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg
While we can’t wait for you to experience all of these new things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, you can never go wrong with the well-loved favorites! Check out all the great things to do in the Smoky Mountains for more help planning your trip.
