Each year, tons of exciting things happen here in the Smoky Mountains, and 2025 has been no exception! From thrilling new attractions to expansions of existing favorites, and more, we wanted to go ahead and recap some of the things that you may have forgotten about that have happened in 2025. Let’s get started:
1. The Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster Opened
First up among the top things that happened in the Smoky Mountains during 2025 was the opening of the Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster, which is the very first racing mountain coaster in the entire United States! This one-of-a-kind attraction allows you to fly down the side-by-side tracks alongside friends or family, all while experiencing the beauty of the surrounding Smokies. You can also choose to enjoy a slower ride to focus on the sights, so what type of experience you have is up to you!
2. Dollywood Celebrated Its 40th Anniversary
Another of the top things that happened during 2025 in the Smoky Mountains was the celebration of Dollywood’s 40th anniversary! The celebration itself contained lots of live music, delicious food, and special decorations, and the event was a great time for families and visitors from all over. Dolly Parton herself even made an appearance at the celebration, emerging from a large cake!
3. SkyLand Ranch Debuted the WagonWheeler Swing Tower
Over in Sevierville, SkyLand Ranch debuted its brand-new WagonWheeler Swing Tower in 2025, giving visitors a new way to experience thrills while admiring the mountain views of the Smokies. This 300-foot tower is a blast to ride, and up to 2 rides per day are included as part of general admission to SkyLand Ranch. So, if you are looking for an exciting attraction while visiting the Smokies, the WagonWheeler Swing Tower should absolutely make your list of things to do!
4. Anakeesta Announced a $100M Expansion
The top attractions in the Smoky Mountains are always continuing to add new activities, and in 2025, Anakeesta announced an expansion coming to their mountaintop adventure park. This $100 million project will include a state-of-the-art lift system with glass-bottom cabins, an extension to the Treetop Skywalk, new experiences for guests, improved infrastructure, and more. Several portions of the expansion will open in 2026, with a second phase planned for 2027.
5. Scooby-Doo! Mystery Putt Opened in Pigeon Forge
Finally, the last of the top things from 2025 in the Smoky Mountains that you may have forgotten about is the opening of Scooby-Doo! Mystery Putt. This immersive mini-golf course contains interactive features, themed environments, and iconic throwbacks to the classic cartoon. With two different courses to navigate, there is lots of fun to be had at this new Pigeon Forge attraction.
As you can see, there have been plenty of exciting developments in the Smoky Mountains throughout 2025! And, of course, there are lots more things to look forward to in 2026, as fun new things are always popping up here in the Smokies. Start planning your perfect vacation today when you check out some of the top reasons to book a stay in Gatlinburg cabin rentals in the New Year! We look forward to seeing you soon.
