Anakeesta
Gatlinburg
Welcome to Anakeesta, Gatlinburg's newest outdoor family experience, a mountaintop theme park meant to put you right into the heart of the Smoky Mountains!
Anakeesta is located on 70 acres of pristine forested land in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, which is technical atop Anakeesta Mountain. Anakeesta is the Cherokee Indian word for high ground, or more literally, 'the place of the balsams (firs)'. Today the word is more commonly associated with the massive rock layer on the Smoky Mountains.
Once here you will take a ride up to the summit of the mountain aboard a Chondola, the views provided along the route, and of course, at the top, truly unbeatable. Once at the top you will be in the midst of Firefly Village, giving you panoramic views of Mt. LeConte, as well as access to several fun shops and dining experiences within Anakeesta. Kids will enjoy spending time in the Treehouse Village Playground, a great way to let them be active among nature!
Head to the 16 Bridge Tree Canopy Walk next, a series of bridges about 40-60 feet above the ground. Next, check out the Memorial Forest Walk and learn about the local impacts of the November 2016 fire, or perhaps take in local flora and fauna on the Vista Gardens botanical walk. You will also have the choice of buying tickets for the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster, Duelling Zipline Adventure, or Gem Mining Experience.
When you work up an appetite head to the Anakeesta Smokehouse BBQ, Cliff Top Grill and Bar, or Pearl's Pie in the Sky.
