5 New Things to Do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg You Don’t Want to Miss
There are always new and exciting things to do in the Smoky Mountains! From shops, to restaurants, to attractions, the fun never ends. If you want to try something new the next time you’re in the area, you’re in luck. Exciting things are happening in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg! To help you plan your vacation, we’ve made a list of 5 new things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg that you don’t want to miss:
1. New Additions at Anakeesta
Since the beginning of its expansion in 2019, Anakeesta has continued to grow! The expansion has brought the AnaVista Tower, TreeVenture Course, splash pad and more to the popular Gatlinburg attraction. The new Smokehouse Brewery is the last addition included in the expansion and will bring BBQ, brews and amazing views to Anakeesta. The growing doesn’t stop there, though. Cliff Top has been upgraded into a brand new restaurant with a menu that includes hand-cut steaks, salads, appetizers and more. You can dine inside or outside, and both areas offer sweeping views of Mt. LeConte. For a quick bite to eat, stop at Kephart Cafe, which serves gourmet hot dogs, flatbread pizza and frozen yogurt. The Tap House offers local craft beer that you can drink while sitting at the infinity bar that overlooks the mountains. Food isn’t the only new addition at Anakeesta! The Mercantile is a brand new shop that puts a modern take on a general store. You’ll find bowls, barware, utensils and decor, along with locally made jams, sauces and pickles. Bring a bit of the Smokies back home with you!
2. The Redneck Comedy Bus Tour
One of the best new things to do in Pigeon Forge is an activity that guarantees lots of laughs! The brand new Redneck Comedy Bus Tour lets you laugh your way through the Smoky Mountains. This tour has gained popularity in Nashville, TN, and has now been brought to Pigeon Forge. You’ll embark on a 2-hour, fun-filled ride through the Smoky Mountain area. This comedy-filled tour is complete with mullets and memories. According to the company, the buses are BYOB, redneck attire is encouraged and snacks are never a bad idea! The tours depart from Cooter’s Place in Pigeon Forge and are open for all ages.
3. Gatlinburg SkyTrail
Opening in the fall, the Gatlinburg SkyTrail is the newest addition to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. The SkyTrail is a scenic walkway that will connect both ends of the SkyBridge. This new activity means that visitors don’t have to walk back across the SkyBridge to return to the SkyDeck! The trail follows the contours of Crockett Mountain and offers incredible views of the SkyBridge and the Smoky Mountains. You can choose to walk the SkyTrail in either direction! At a length of just one-third of a mile, it’s easy for everyone in the family to do. The attraction has plans to expand the SkyTrail even more after its opening in the fall to include covered rest areas with interpretive signage!
4. CoasterKart at Rowdy Bear Ridge
Rowdy Bear Ridge is introducing one of the best new things to do in Pigeon Forge. The CoasterKart is coming this fall and will be the first of its kind! The CoasterKart is similar to an alpine coaster in that it puts riders in control of their own speed. However, the experience is different! It’s a powered ride system with electrical bars installed in the track to power the motor on the karts. The 2 passenger vehicles allow for riders to sit side-by-side, and the speed of the kart is controlled by a foot brake instead of a hand brake. Other things to do at Rowdy Bear Ridge include axe throwing, tubing and a laser gun coaster!
5. Cinnaholic
If you have a sweet tooth, then you’re going to love one of the new additions to the Tower Shops in Pigeon Forge! Cinnaholic is opening in early November and will offer gourmet cinnamon rolls, brownies, edible cookie dough and baked cookies. All of their products are 100% vegan, dairy and lactose free, egg free and cholesterol free. Everything is made from scratch daily! There is something for everyone at Cinnaholic, and you can customize your treat to include whatever frosting and toppings you’d like!
More Things to Do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg
Now that you know all the new things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg that you don’t want to miss, we bet you can’t wait to plan your trip! These new things aren’t the only can’t-miss activities in the area, though. From restaurants, to amusement parks, there is so much to experience in the Smokies.
Check out more things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for help planning your next Smoky Mountain vacation!
