New, Unique & Unusual Places
In Gatlinburg
Wondering what is new and fun in Gatlinburg?
Are you searching for unique, unusual or off the beaten path ideas for your vacation, trip, or quick weekend getaway? Here's a great list with pictures and descriptions to get you started!
What Is New Unique & Unusual in Pigeon Forge
Pet Friendly Cabins in Gatlinburg
My Cabin Suggestions
My Hotel Suggestions
Attractions
Car Shows
Food & Restaurants
1.) Laurel Falls Trail Rehabilitation
576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
This popular trail leads to a waterfall, and is getting repaved, signs are being upgraded, better viewing platforms and is scheduled to reopen mid-summer, 2026. Also included are new parking spaces and rest spots.
Wildflowers & Waterfalls: Easy Trails in the Great Smoky Mountains
2.) New at Anakeesta: The $100 Million Expansion
576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
The Crystal Express is the new larger, faster, glass bottom, enclosed lift system that replaces the little red Chandolas and open chairlifts from before. The Crystal Express takes us to the top of Anakeesta! These new lifts have huge windows for the scenic Smoky Mountain views on the 4-minute ride to the top and can hold more guests per ride.
Also, The Treetop Skywalk is being expanded, Firefly Village is getting some updates and there is a new "Firefly Experience"- a new evening firefly light show.
The Beloved Heart Twigloo is getting a revamp, AnaVista Tower is being refreshed and with wait in line time is being greatly reduced.
See Cabins Near Downtown and Anakeesta
3.) Alibi Speakeasy & The Coffee Syndicate
968 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
An Italian espresso and dessert bar with a hidden gem in the back...That's all I can say...You will have to ask the Barista ; )
New Cabins in Gatlinburg & Surrounding Areas - Be the First to Stay
4.) Goo Goo Cluster
716 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
Design your own custom candy bar at the kiosk or enjoy the varieties that Goo Goo has been making for you! This Nashville company has the bragging rights of being the first combination candy bar around in 1912.
5.) Smoky Mountain Creperie
812 Parkway, Suite 111, Gatlinburg
Hidden Gem, sweet or savory homemade crepes!
Whether you're in the mood for bananas, chocolate, whipped cream and Nutella, or maybe chicken, BBQ, avocado, cream cheese, bacon and feta, and more, you will not be disappointed here.
They also have flan and frescas con crema.
6.) A Walk in the Woods
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, TN 865-436-8283
Ask about the new Flight of the Firefly Tour! A Specialty Tour now being offered in the evenings of late May to June.
Want to go exploring in The Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Or do you want to go hiking, but not sure where to start? You can reserve a spot on this award winning, guided hiking tour, ahead of time.
They offer guided nature walks, day hikes, overnight trips, camping and backpacking trips, shuttle service, driving tours and a wealth of information from experienced guides. They even offer classes on things like edible plants, medicinal, primitive skills, navigation and scout badges.
A Walk in The Woods Private Tours
Stroll Back in Time History Streams & Forest Hike
7.) Rocky Top Adventure Rentals
544 E. Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 865-412-1125
Whether you want a 2, 4, or 6 seater to ride in, you can take your pick of fun and exotic vehicles here. Rent a Slingshot, a Jeep or a UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle) and take a ride out to Roaring Forks, Cades Cove, or maybe even The Dragon.
Rent by the hour or by the day. Most are equipped with high end stereo systems and GPS, and this company makes the list for its high marks in for customer satisfaction.
Also Check out Gon Ridin ATV Tours!
Guide to Recreational Vehicle Rentals
8.) Over Easy Al's Breakfast & Lunch
1019 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
Breakfast spot downtown that serves unique and classic breakfasts and lunches as well as signature cocktails and Bloody Marys. There are alot of things on this menu, but here are a few samples:
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Berry Easy Bramble
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Cinnamon Swirl with cream cheese
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Fried Deviled Eggs,
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Funky Monkey Waffle
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Warm Bread Pudding
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Redneck Benedict
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Corned Beef Hash
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Fried Egg Burger.....Just to name a few!
9.) The Escape Game Gatlinburg
105 Reagan Drive, Gatlinburg, TN
Race against the clock to solve the puzzles and gain your freedom! Unlimited hints, multiple rooms, and fun for all skill levels. Great fun for groups and various scenarios to choose from like:
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Prison Break
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The Depths
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Train Through Time
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The Heist
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Special Ops
10.) Gatlin's Fun Center
716 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 865-436-2326
Lazer Maze, Atomic Rush, Gatlin's Bumper Cars, Escape Rooms, Mini Golf, Ropes Course, and Blacklight Golf are all here in one spot, right on the Parkway. The kids will never be bored, and it's just as much fun for the adults!
The "Fun Pass" gives you all the options and the flexibility to do what you like best. Great variety of activities for everyone.
11.) Ripley's Believe It or Not! $5 Million Renovation
800 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 865-436-5096
The iconic landmark downtown has been completely renovated over a 9-month span, and as you will see, the exterior has been totally redone in a new Smokies theme. The inside has been expanded with all new exhibits, along with 3,000 more square feet of exhibit space.
With the new layout, you will ride an elevator to the top and make your way down through the many interactive experiences of the odditorium. Fun for all ages, and things you won't see anywhere but Ripley's!
Get Ripley's Combo Attraction Discount Tickets
12.) Cookie Dough Bliss
651 Parkway, Suite 104, Gatlinburg, TN 865-253-1604
Remember when Mom said not to eat the cookie dough because you might get sick? Well, our dreams have now come true...It's FINALLY safe to eat the cookie dough!
This unique sweet shop has flavors like chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, cake batter, snickerdoodle, Nutella, red velvet cream cheese swirl, peanut butter paradise, and more. You can also try sweet treats like the Signature Bliss Ice Cream Bar, Bliss Sundaes, Cookie Dough Shakes, and more!
13.) Treehouse Grove at Norton Creek
475 Norton Creek Rd, Gatlinburg, TN
Designed by Pete Nelson from Animal Planet's "Treehouse Masters", this resort features a collection of unique treehouses will be located in a secluded backwoods area of Gatlinburg, but also convenient to Pigeon Forge. The location is perfect for those who want to get away from it all but also those who want to hop back and forth between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
All treehouses will have unique floor plans, including lofts, decks, and screened porches, and a nearby creek. If you would like to rent one of these beauties, you can see availability here:
See All Treehouses
14.) Smoky Mountain School of Cooking
1004 Parkway, Suite 301, Gatlinburg, TN
Try something new, fun and different on vacation!
Smoky Mountain School of Appalachian Cooking can help. Great for bachelorette parties, girl's or boy's nights, family or kid's fun, team building, and more. Doesn't matter if your new to cooking or a seasoned (pun intended) chef, you can always learn something different from different folks.
Also check out their Appalachian gift store for gifts and treasures to take home. Now located downtown Gatlinburg.
