20 New & Unique Attractions in
The Smokies
Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge & Sevierville
Updated for 2026
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Unique, Hidden Gems
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Off the Beaten Path Places to Visit
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Unusual & Fun Places to Go
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New Places and Attractions You Might not Know About
1.) New at Anakeesta - The $100 Million Expansion for 2026
576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
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Anakeesta continues to grow! They have recently added The Trailhead Store and in addition, they will be replacing the Chondolas with much larger ones, giving a faster ride to the top of the mountain, as well as expanding Treetop Skywalk and adding The Nighttime Firefly Experience, among other additions for 2026, and into 2027.
Enjoy the new Hot Chocolate Trail (Peanut Butter Surrender and Butter Pecan Sippin' Cream...OH my) during Enchanted Winter, and in Spring, 2026 they will expand with the "Next Generation Lift", that includes 56 larger, glass bottom chondolas with 360 degree views as you ride to the top.
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Also new, a "reimagined" Firefly Village overhaul and a Treetop Skywalk Expansion.​​
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Cabins Near Anakeesta & the Downtown Gatlinburg Strip
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Tickets for Anakeesta​​​
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2.) Clayton's Landing, & Extended SkyTrail
756 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
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The Skybridge, Skylift, Skytrails and SkyDecks combine to make SkyPark. The Skylift is a longstanding icon of Gatlinburg, known for it's scenic views and as a very popular attraction since 1954, when it was the 1st chairlift.
History
Gatlinburg Skylift was one of the original attractions that helped the area become so well known as a great family vacation spot. It was a simple, scenic chairlift before the historic, devastating wildfires in 2016, and was partially burned. After that, an entirely new chairlift system was installed. It has since been reborn and has grown into the gorgeous park it is today.
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What's New in 2026
As it continues to grow, SkyLift Park has added an extra thrills at the top. In addition to SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian sky bridge in North America, and Tulip Observation Tower, there are now added SkyTrails, and Clayton's Landing.
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SkyTrail includes a boardwalk, and now an added 1.5 miles of scenic walking trails. Signage and photos along the way, tell the story of the area.
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Clayton's Landing includes a new viewing deck area, a large restaurant including Smoky Mountain Smash gourmet smashburgers, and SIPS, a place to get a cocktail, craft beer or non-alcoholic drink while you enjoy the views.
Seasonal lighting, decorations and breathtaking views will be just a few of the things you will experience at the top of Crockett Mountain. ​​
3.) Little Forge Tree Lodges
2618 Laurel Crest Lane - Pigeon Forge, TN
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These cute and adorable hideaways are in the heart of it all, near all the attractions in Pigeon Forge.
They have a lot of community amenities like games, firepits, no drive walkways, (it's a short walk up to the cabins, parking is at the bottom), bike rental, 2 bedrooms, gas fireplaces and hot tubs.
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Amenities onsite also include guest grilling and picnic areas, laundry, general store and a fun roof deck.
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More Info About TreeLodges and Availability Here
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4.) Alibi Speakeasy
968 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
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Secret location, inside "The Coffee Syndicate Espresso & Dessert Bar"
(Ask the Barista- Password May be Needed)
It's a 1920's vibe, a Prohibition style lounge that's a little mysterious, a lot of classy, but also a "come as you are" atmosphere- no one is judging you here, everyone is there for a good time! Dress to the nines if you feel so inclined, but hiking boots and tourists can also join the fun.
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Exclusive and unique, awe inspiring, craft cocktails, smoky, misty and carefully curated drinks, large bourbon and whiskey collection, old world wines, and space is available for Private Events.
Smoky Mountain Wedding Venues Guide
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My List of Best Steakhouses Around The Smokies
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5.) The Motorcycle Inn
155 W. Dumplin Valley Road, Kodak
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A completely unique motorcycle themed hotel filled with rare and limited edition bikes, of all makes and models. 23 rooms just off the famous 407 Exit across from Buccee's and the Smokies Flea Market. This is super exciting and a one of a kind hotel! Stunning rooms, each with different bikes, custom furniture, and a work still in progress...​​​
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*I am told that guests will receive a blanket and tshirt that matches their bike/room.
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6.) Carriage Ride in Cades Cove
10018 Campground Dr, Townsend, TN
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(March - November) Cades Cove Riding Stables offers more than horseback riding. They offer hayrides and horse drawn carriage rides.
During a carriage ride, the guide will tell you all about the historical and beautiful Cades Cove, which you will most likely find fascinating. Wildlife is abundant in the cove, so you may just see some wild deer, wild turkey or a few black bears along the way.
Cades Cove is about 30 miles west of Gatlinburg inside the National Park.
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7.) Stay in a Crazy Cool Cabin
Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg, TN
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Don't miss these unique cabins with unusual amenities if you want something new and different and fun!
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Features like onsite mini golf course, rock climbing walls, a castle theme, a creek to swim and fish in, a cabin on the river, a neon glowing outdoor kitchen to grill on, and much more! Find details and see unique cabins here.
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8.) Dollywood's New Night Flight Expedition Ride
Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, TN
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Dollywood has spent over $50 million on the first indoor family hybrid coaster and whitewater river raft ride for 2026.
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This state of the art, amphibious vehicle will take you on a journey like no other - through caves, down rivers, lakes, over scenic mountaintops and has already won the Amusement Today Golden Ticket Award for ride innovation.
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9.) The Bodies Human Science Museum
205 Airport Rd., Gatlinburg, TN
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This is a permanent exhibit, just under the Space Needle, for those who are (like myself) fascinated with the inner workings of the human body. Yes, they are real bodies, that have been donated to science. There is much to learn and see!
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10.) Stargazer Glamping Village, Wears Valley
3209 Line Spring Rd, Sevierville, TN
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Luxury camping in the heart of Wears Valley, and right near the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Private decks and all the comforts of home while tent camping.
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This pet friendly glamping location is in a beautiful location, but close to it all as well. Have complimentary popcorn and smores around the community firepit and walk to Heavenly Roast Coffee Shop or Mountain Brothers General Store and Brewery.
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Check Out The Copernicus Tent & Availibility
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11.) A Long Story Short Co.
3336 Old Mill Street, Pigeon Forge, TN
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Vintage and preowned books, crystals, steampunk art, and other home decor and unique gifts with a magical vibe. This cute shop is a hidden gem and a great place to find a treasure and it's right in the Old Mill District of Pigeon Forge.
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See More Vintage and Antique Spots
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12.) Micro Wrestling at the Microtorium
185 East Wears Valley Rd., Pigeon Forge, TN
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The Micro Wrestling Federation puts on 4 shows per week, March - December in Pigeon Forge's own Micro Wrestling Arena. They even had a reality show on the Discovery Channel in 2024. (Big Little Brawlers) and have been featured in Sports Illustrated, WWE and other national media.
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Talented and powerful little people, and great fun for all ages.
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13.) New Shops & Attractions at The Mountain Mile
2655 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN
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There's always something new coming to The Mountain Mile, a popular strip with attractions, stores, shopping, restaurants, rides, pop ups and other activities. They even have fireworks on New Year's Eve.
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For 2026, you will find Scooby Doo Mystery Putt, Bigfoot in the Smokies Store, Pandora Jewelry, The Carhartt Store, and Jewelry TV Store, just to name a few!
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14.) The Foothills Parkway Missing Link
Wears Valley, TN
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“The Missing Link” is 1.6-mile portion of a stretch of mountain bridges corridor that has been in the works for over 50 years. Many things held up construction over the years, and still hold up some parts from being finished. But this 1.6-mile connection of scenic mountain bridges opened to the public in late 2018, which allows for a beautiful 33-mile portion to be travelled from start to finish by the public from Wears Valley to Chillhowee.
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See Wears Valley Cabins with Indoor Pools
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Cabins on Lakes Creeks & Rivers
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15.) Springtime Exotic Petting Farm
253 Happy Hollow Lane, Sevierville, TN
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​Hold, pet and interact with exotic animals like bunnies, ducks, turkeys and chickens. Also see ostriches, alpacas, kangaroos, llamas, emu, watusi, exotic birds, kittens, baby chicks, mini donkeys and more.
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You might also get a chance to bottle feed baby animals.
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Also, the have fun activities for kids like a 200 foot Mega slide, a Bubble Station, an Excavator, a 70 foot Jump Pad, Inflatable corn maze, kid's pedal karts, games and more.
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16.) Wild Bear Tubing
1980 Pittman Center Drive, Sevierville, TN
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Scenic tubing down the Little Pigeon River. And they are pet friendly so you can bring your bestie! Get the best price when you make reservations.
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17.) Dig'n Zone Theme Park
1707 Veteran's Blvd., Sevierville, TN
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This is the world's largest construction-based theme park.
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Over 25 attractions, games, food, live performances and you can operate REAL construction equipment in a safe environment. You can also have birthday parties there!
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Rides include:
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The Decimator
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The Crusher
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The Cut and Run
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Diggy Bear Express
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Dig'n Pit
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Farm Hands
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Gator Grand Prix
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Later Gator
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Pipeliner
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Rock'n Roll'n
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Skid'n
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Tumble Town
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Plunkey Monkey
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Boogie Buggies...and More!​
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Cabins with EV Chargers
Discount & Online Tickets for Attractions
New Unique & Unusual Places in Gatlinburg
18.) Ghost & Haunt Tours
404 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN
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Ghost and Haunt Tours are walking or van tours given by knowledgeable and entertaining guides. They use real ghosting equipment (what’s that?) and you will be amazed at the history of the town as you enjoy the many stories Gatlinburg has hidden in its history!
Another company, "Tennessee Mountain Tours" in Gatlinburg, offers a variety of guided tours from lifelong locals, with tours like Moonshine and Wine, Trees of Many Colors (fall tour) and Roundabout Gatlinburg, just to name a few. There is a tour for everyone. Both companies have rave reviews.
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Check Availability of:
Gatlinburg Haunts Thrilling Dark History Walking Tour
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Ghost & Haunt Tours of Gatlinburg
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19.) Llamas at Trillium Gap Trail
Grotto Falls, Roaring Fork Motor Trail (closed in Winter), Gatlinburg, TN
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Roaring Fork Motor Trail, on its own, is an excellent choice for a relaxing drive, and a historical adventure. It’s a 1-way loop, just over 5 miles drive where you will see the very birthplace of Gatlinburg. The historic cabins and wildflowers alone are worth going on a drive there. At traffic light #8 on the Gatlinburg Parkway, turn onto Historic Nature Trail. Go about a half mile to the Cherokee Orchard entrance to the national park. About 2 miles, you will hit Roaring Fork Nature Trail.
Once you are on Roaring Fork Nature Trail, about 2-3 miles in, you will come upon the trailhead for Trillium Gap. Parking is on the left, trail head is found on the right.
This will take you to Grotto Falls for a great, easy and beautiful hike. It’s a little less than 1.5 miles to these beautiful waterfalls.
OK, here’s where the llamas come in. IF you want to see a “Llama Train”, get there very early, say, not later than 7 am on Monday, Wednesday or Friday. This is approximately when the Park Services uses several llamas to pack supplies on the trail up to Mt. LeConte, the highest point, which is approximately 7-miles past the Falls.
There is no guarantee you will see them, but it’s a regular thing the park has done for years, so there’s a good chance! Probably a once in a lifetime thing to see for most people. So worth it! Check out 8 Easy Wildflowers & Waterfall Trails Near Gatlinburg, TN
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Cabins with Indoor Private Swimming Pools Inside
Secluded Cabins​​​​​​