Anakeesta is Gatlinburg’s mountaintop theme park, where the theme is nature and there are adventures for all ages. Don’t miss these 10 memorable activities.
1. Ride the Crystal Express
Glide up the mountainside on a new, high-speed gondola, featuring luxurious cabins with panoramic views through glass floors and walls.
2. Walk Among the Stars at Astra Lumina
The stars come down to Earth and illuminate a magical nighttime experience. Astra Lumina uses lights, sound, and projections to create an unforgettable celestial stroll.
3. Explore the Treetop Skywalk
Try the longest tree-based skywalk on the continent. Hanging bridges, 60 feet in the air, lead you from tree to tree. Watch for bears below and woodpeckers flitting past you.
4. Zoom Downhill on a Mountain Coaster
Anakeesta has two adrenaline-pumping “gravity coasters” that let you control how fast you go. Feel the breeze in your hair while you satisfy your need for speed!
5. Challenge Yourself on the Treeventure Course
Swing, climb, and slide on this all-ages challenge course. Three treehouses, linked by netted bridges, offer plenty of action. Reach the top, then slide to the bottom and start again.
6. Mine for Real Gems
Step back in time and pretend you’re a miner, using a waterfall and sluice to find real gemstones and fossils.
7. Climb AnaVista Tower
This is the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg, with stunning 360-degree views. Climb the 86 steps to the observation deck to see as far away as Kentucky!
8. Discover the Wild Life at BirdVenture
Three huge, colorful birdhouses give you a bird’s-eye view of life in the Smokies. This unique play space includes the country’s first serpentine slide paths–seven giant slides winding more than 50 feet down the mountain.
9. Meet Willow, the Anakeesta Giant
No visit here is complete until you’ve said hello to smiling Willow. He’s 20 feet high and 100 percent charming! With a tree branch body and a leaf hat, Willow is the official guardian of the forest.
10. Dine and Shop
Whether you crave BBQ, pizza, or classic American cuisine, you’ll find plenty to tempt your tastebuds. Treat your family to desserts at the creamery or the bakery, then shop for Appalachian souvenirs.
After a busy day at Anakeesta, head back to a private, comfortable Gatlinburg cabin rental. Find your dream cabin in our listings and book it today.
