New Attractions in the Pigeon Forge Area
There are so many new things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg that it’s hard to keep up. Heck, it’s hard to keep up with all the things to do here period! Haha.
This list covers new things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg that are already open (well, except for one). There are many new things coming this year, but I didn’t want to talk about those. I wanted to talk about the ones that you can visit now!
As a local to the area, I offer great insight for your trip. I have written two guides for visiting this area: My View of the Smokies and Listicles. The first one is much longer than the second one. If you don’t want to do all the planning on your own, become one of my clients and I’ll create a custom itinerary for you!
Driving the Parkway in Gatlinburg
Sevierville
Don’t overlook Sevierville. It may be known as the gateway to the Smokies, but it has really been built up the past few years. There are a lot of fun already there to do but let’s talk about the newcomers:
Dig’N Zone Theme Park
It’s the world’s largest construction-based theme park. And, yes, you will be operating and driving real construction equipment! It’s fun for all ages and there are many pieces of equipment to “play” with. Such as forklifts, excavators, skid-steers, and more.
Red’s Soda Fountain and Ice Cream
It’s a 1940’s soda shop that offers hand-mixed sodas, milkshakes, floats, and more. Of course the place has a vintage atmosphere as well. It really is like stepping back in time!
Xperia Ocean Journey
It’s an underwater immersive exhibit. No, there is not really an ocean or animals here. It is completely digital. However, you will feel as though you are in the depths of the ocean. You will get to explore underwater landscapes, see sea creatures, and learn a lot along the way. It’s located in Tanger Outlet so it’s a great option if you plan to shop too.
The Safari Hayride at SkyLand Ranch
Ready to get up close with some real animals? Board the covered wagon and head out to the ranch! These animals are real, not digitized. On the hayride you get a personal look at life for the animals on the ranch. Some of the animals you will see are deer, alpacas, longhorns, cows, and more. You also have the opportunity to pet and feed some of them.
Pigeon Forge
The heart of all the attractions…. Pigeon Forge. There is SO much stuff to do in Pigeon Forge that it’s hard to narrow it all down. And, now that they’re adding more attractions it makes it even harder…. haha. Without further ado, let’s talk about our newbys:
Space Race Adventures
Are you searching for galactic fun? You found it! There are multiple space themed attractions within this place. They have mini golf, go-kart racing, laser tag, and even virtual reality experiences. All of them are themed as if you’re in outer space.
Mountain Wildlife Museum
This is a very unique museum. It aims to teach about protection efforts for animals in the Southeastern US.. It’s also a way for people to safely experience the wildlife up close. All the animals have been taxidermied and you will see animals that are native to East TN and animals that are not. Some of animals here include bobcats, black bears, monkeys, crocodiles, and more.
Sky Pirates of Mermaid Bay
It’s an impressive mini golf adventure that will take you to the depths of the sea and into the clouds. Kids will absolutely love this place! It is completely immersive and you really do feel as if you’re a pirate or a mermaid.
Lost Mine Mountain Coaster and Mini Golf
It’s the longest alpine coaster here and a lot of people who have visited it say it’s now the best mountain coaster in the area. You get to go through tunnels and over downtown. As for the mini golf it’s an 18 hole course.
The Wayback
It’s a fun, new retro hotel located across from The Island. They have a restaurant and a pool; and there are even cabanas next to the pool. The whole place just looks so fun and quirky!
HeartSong Lodge and Resort at Dollywood
The second resort at Dollywood is now open! They have pools, six dining locations, and many of the rooms have balconies. The whole place is gorgeous! Of course, they have complimentary trolley service to the parks as well. When you book with a Dollywood resort you also get exclusive privileges, such as the Dollywood Time Saver Pass, early park entry on Saturdays, and more.
The Dolly Parton Experience
This will be inside of Dollywood. It’s not open yet, but it will be in May. Basically, you get to go with Dolly throughout her life. There will be exhibits that span her career, exhibits that showcase her style, and much more. Basically, you will get to learn even more about Dolly once this new section to the park opens.
Gatlinburg
The most touristy of them all, and the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Gatlinburg. Walking along the strip you will find all kinds of restaurants and shops. Tucked in behind those you will find the attractions. There are two new things to do at already popular attractions, so let’s talk about them:
BirdVenture at Anakeesta
It’s a new adventure zone in Anakeesta where you get to imagine what life as a bird would be like. There are three giant birdhouses, slides, and interactive activities. It’s included in general admission to the park.
Zip Lines at Ober Mountain
You get to soar through the trees and over the Big Pigeon River. There are two different tours to choose from, a 90 minute or three hour tour. Ober Mountain has two different locations so it’s important to point out that the ziplining is actually at the Hartford location and not the Gatlinburg location.
