If you’re looking for something new and exciting to do in the Smokies when you visit in 2026, you’re in luck! You probably already know about the well-established fun, but these new experiences can add an extra layer of excitement to your trip. A new year brings brand-new attractions, expansions to existing attractions, and even first-of-its-kind immersive experiences. Whether it’s your first time ever visiting the area or you’re returning for your yearly trip, you won’t want to miss these 5 new things to do in the Smoky Mountains in 2026:
1. Take a Ride on Dollywood’s NightFlight Expedition
An attraction 3 years in the making will make its debut at Dollywood in the spring! The groundbreaking NightFlight Expedition is a first-of-its-kind hybrid attraction that merges roller coaster thrills in a water ride that is full of immersive storytelling. This unforgettable indoor adventure in the Wildwood Grove section of the park uses projection technology, lighting, and special effects to take guests on a night adventure unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before. This ride reaches speeds of 29 miles per hour, lasts longer than 5 minutes, and has a 39-inch height requirement.
2. Check Out New Additions at Anakeesta
Anakeesta, one of the popular existing things to do in the Smoky Mountains, might look a bit different when you visit in 2026! The Gatlinburg adventure park is getting a $100 million facelift that includes several new additions. Coming in the spring, there will be a new next-generation gondola system with glass floors, an updated Firefly Village, and an expanded Treetop Skywalk. A nighttime attraction that captures the magic of the famous synchronous fireflies is expected to open in the fall.
3. Hike the New & Improved Laurel Falls Trail
Were you bummed out you couldn’t hike the Laurel Falls Trail in 2025? The good news is it’s expected to reopen in mid-2026 and be better than ever! It will feature major improvements, including a resurfaced and widened paved trail, a new viewing platform, and a wider bridge at the upper falls. You’ll also find more parking which should help more guests experience one of the most popular trails and waterfalls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
4. Mini Racing at The Checkered Flag Slot Car & R/C Complex
Need a change of plans for a rainy day? Check out The Checkered Flag Slot Car & R/C Complex in Pigeon Forge! It’s a family friendly attraction where guests can compete with one another through slot car racing, drag racing, and R/C crawling. You’ll operate remote control miniature vehicles along a track for fun the whole family can enjoy. You can either rent your own equipment or bring your own.
5. Expanded Blue Ghost & Synchronous Firefly Experiences at A Walk in the Woods
Nature lovers, rejoice! The new year brings expanded Blue Ghost and Synchronous Firefly experiences to A Walk in the Woods, a popular area outfitter that takes guests on guided tours of the outdoors. If you’re looking for new things to do in the Smoky Mountains, let this guide service take you into the heart of nature for a one-of-a-kind adventure that allows guests to see these rare glowing insects.
Bonus: 407: Gateway to Adventure Announcement
A 200-acre tourist development in Sevierville, located off of Exit 407, known as 407: A Gateway to Adventure has been teasing a big announcement! Could the announcement be something exciting you can experience during your trip in 2026? Stay tuned to Visit My Smokies, where we will have all the details!
Are you ready to experience these new things to do in the Smoky Mountains when you visit in 2026? As you plan your next trip, make sure you have all the info you need about all of the incredible attractions in the Smokies here!
