The 407: Gateway to Adventure

Major, new attractions now under construction–including an Americana-themed entertainment district and a Cherokee history attraction–will turn Tennessee’s highway Exit 407 into the “Gateway to Adventure” by 2025. 

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians is developing its land at “the 407” to create a new tourist destination in Sevierville, close to the already established attractions of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. What’s planned for this location along highway I-40?

Smoky Gap Entertainment District

Stroll down the main street of this new downtown and you’re stepping back in time. The Smoky Gap district will be an immersive experience, transporting you to the early 1900s in a growing America. Shops, restaurants and attractions all participate in the theme, each bringing its own creative historical touch to your time-travel experience. 

Developers promise a historic streetscape with lighting and projection elements, plus nighttime entertainment and events throughout the year. Smoky Gap is under construction now and is scheduled to open in 2025.

World’s Largest Buc-ees Travel Center

This gigantic travel center, the first 407 feature to open, is already selling its signature snacks, sandwiches, merchandise and gas to day-trippers and long-haulers alike. The Sevierville Buc-ees boasts 74,000 square feet of retail space, 120 fueling stations and a 250-foot-long car wash. Buc-ees is a destination in its own right, not just a travel stop, and is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Cherokee WWI History Feature

Details are still under wraps, but 2025 will bring a new attraction centered on Cherokee history. The reported theme is Cherokee heroism during World War I – an often overlooked period of American Indian contributions. This attraction is likely to immerse visitors in the Cherokees’ war experience, based on other historically themed attractions its designers created for European cities.

Possible Sports Illustrated Resort

The 407 could be home to a new Sports Illustrated Resort in coming years. A feasibility study is under way to gauge whether the Tennessee location is right for what could be the third SI resort. One resort, in the Dominican Republic, is already open. A second SI resort will open in Orlando in the next two years.

Stay tuned for updates. It’s never too early to plan your visit so you’re among the first to dive into these attractions! Browse Pigeon Forge and Sevierville cabin rentals and reserve your dream cabin today.