6 New Attractions in the Smoky Mountains Coming in 2021
A new year means new opportunities for fun in the Smoky Mountains! In 2020, we saw the opening of new restaurants, new attractions and new shops, and you can expect even more great things in 2021! We’ve got all the details on 6 new attractions in the Smoky Mountains coming in 2021.
1. Pigeon Forge Chairlift
If you’ve been to Gatlinburg before, we know you’ve seen the chairlifts that allow visitors to take in gorgeous views of the city and the mountains. However, there hasn’t been one of these rides in Pigeon Forge — until now! In 2021, Pigeon Forge is getting its first chairlift. The Pigeon Forge Chairlift will be located next to Pigeon Forge Snow. It will offer views of Pigeon Forge with the Smoky Mountains in the background. In addition to the chairlift, the attraction is planning to build an 85-foot observation tower as well! You can stay up to date with construction of the Pigeon Forge Chairlift on the company’s Facebook page.
2. Gatlinburg SkyTrail
The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park has introduced many new opportunities for fun recently! What started as just the SkyLift has transformed into a mountaintop attraction with shops, views, and the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in America. In 2021, the SkyLift Park will open the Gatlinburg SkyTrail. The SkyTrail is a scenic walkway that will connect each end of the Gatlinburg SkyBridge and provide guests the opportunity to stroll through the mountains. The first phase of the SkyTrail will feature an elevated boardwalk with interactive signage that talks about the history of Gatlinburg and the SkyLift. Phase 2 will open later in the year and include elevated viewing platforms, rope bridges and a smooth walking path cut into the hillside.
3. Roll On In
Of course, there are new restaurants coming to the Smoky Mountains in 2021 too! Roll On In will bring Asian dishes with a Tex-Mex twist to Sevierville. Visitors can try sushi burritos, sushi tacos, sushi bowls and more! The restaurant prides itself on serving food that’s fresh, fast and affordable. You’ll be able to build your own sushi burrito or bowl, or order one of their signature combinations! Roll On In is expected to open in spring of 2021. The restaurant will be located at 750 Winfield Dunn Parkway in Sevierville, near Publix.
4. Damn Yankees
Another Smoky Mountain restaurant expected to open in 2021 is Damn Yankees. This restaurant has the same owners as Delauder’s Smoky Mountain BBQ, a well known restaurant in Gatlinburg. Damn Yankees plans on having a variety of casual meals, from chicken wings to specialty burgers. There will also be over 16 types of beer on tap! Not only will Damn Yankees serve great food, they are expecting to also offer live music, karaoke and trivia. An official opening date for this new restaurant in Gatlinburg has yet to be announced.
5. Flying Theater Ride at The Island
One of the most anticipated new attractions in the Smoky Mountains is the flying theater ride at The Island! This state-of-the-art ride is expected to officially open in 2021. The world-class flying theater experience will feature a state-of-the-art ride system and a custom film that highlights natural wonders and iconic landmarks in the nation. Along the ride, people will experience the movements, sounds, scents and mists of an aerial adventure across the country! The new ride will be located adjacent to The Island’s Great Smoky Mountain Wheel and The Island Show Fountain.
6. CoasterKart at Rowdy Bear Ridge
What started as a year-round tubing destination has turned into an exciting adventure park! Rowdy Bear Ridge in Pigeon Forge is offering a new experience for visitors to enjoy in 2021: the CoasterKart. This brand new attraction is an interactive slide that is fun for the whole family. Along the ride, you’ll be in control of your own speed. But, it’s different from a traditional alpine coaster. The CoasterKart is a powered ride system with electrical bars installed in the track to power the karts. The 2 passenger vehicles allow friends and family members to ride side-by-side, and the speed is controlled by a foot brake instead of a hand brake. An official opening date for the CoasterKart at Rowdy Bear Ridge has yet to be announced.
More Attractions in the Smoky Mountains
We’re so excited about these new attractions in the Smoky Mountains coming in 2021! While you wait for them to open, there is still plenty of fun to be had in the Smokies. From delicious restaurants to thrilling attractions, the opportunities are endless. For help planning your next trip, take a look at the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains.
