There are plenty of long-standing attractions and annual events in the Great Smoky Mountains – staples that come to mind when you think of Pigeon Forge or neighboring Gatlinburg. You probably think of Dollywood, the upside-down WonderWorks building, go karts and laser tag, miniature golf, creamy fudge, and old-time photos. And while we LOVE the staples in the area, we also love NEW things! Thankfully, the Smokies obliges, adding new things to do all the time! So whether you’ve been here tons of times and want to find new things to do or are coming to the Smokies for the first time, you’ll love these new options!
Anakeesta NEW 360 Tower
One of the area’s newest attractions is still adding new features. Next up is the 360-degree observation tower made of wood and steel and towering 55 feet above the Vista Gardens and 655 feet above downtown Gatlinburg.
Buzzed Bull Creamery
Looking for a unique date day? This boozy ice cream shop is coming soon to Pigeon Forge, bringing liquid nitrogen ice cream and options for the 21-and-over crowd. Watching the ice cream being made is a treat in itself, and there are plenty of options for kids as well! Sip on milkshakes and coffee or cool off with some ice cream on a hot day.
Chicken Guy Restaurant
Guy Fieri is bringing his signature style to the Smokies with his new Chicken Guy restaurant in Gatlinburg! Guests can nosh on chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, a wide range of sauces, and his “Flavortown Frozen Treats” that include hand-spun soft serve topped with sauce and whipped cream.
Dollywood’s Flower + Food Festival
This brand-NEW event at Dollywood is sure to be a stunner! May 8 – 14, Dollywood will showcase almost 500,000 flowers and plants in amazing displays, along with great food and seasonal drinks. As always, we expect an over-the-top display by Dolly Parton, and of course you can enjoy the awesome shows and rides at Dollywood too!
Double Decker Bus Tours
A unique new addition to the Smoky Mountains, Double Decker Bus Tours invites you to hop on and hop off to explore the area! Tour guides will give guests the rundown of the area, pointing out top attractions, restaurants, and more. A day pass is just $14.99 for adults and $9.99 for kids (4 and under FREE), and single ride passes are just $5! They also offer combo passes with alpine coasters, snow tubing, and ziplines! And spring 2020 is bringing special tours: Cades Cove, Moonshine and Wine, and Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.
The Tower Shops at The Mountain Mile
Planned for spring 2020, The Mountain Mile – including the new Tower Shops – is a possible 174-acre complex built up around the Cal Ripken Baseball Experience. One mile will run along Teaster Lane, and the area is set to include tons of shops and restaurants – and it will be just across the Parkway from The Island! The Tower Shops are also planning to open a new REI, a popular outdoor gear shop, Mountain Rifle Coffee Company, and Currahee Vineyards.
More NEW Things in the Smokies
- Pigeon Forge Chairlift
- Knox Dough – Edible Cookie Dough & Rolled Ice Cream
- Pigeon Forge Axe House
- Laser Gun Coaster – at Rowdy Bear Ridge
- Flying Theater Experience – at The Island
- Soaky Mountain Waterpark
- Little Bear Winery
NEW Pigeon Forge, TN Cabins!
We’re also always adding new cabins for you to choose from! Take your pick from 1-2 bedroom cabins for romantic retreats, 3-5 bedroom cabins for fun family getaways, and large group lodges for retreats, reunions, and more!
