One of the most popular attractions in the Smokies is growing again! Anakeesta has already expanded their attractions tremendously since opening in 2017, but this is the largest development we’ve seen so far. We know you can’t wait to find out what they’re adding, so keep reading to learn more about the expansion coming to Anakeesta in Gatlinburg TN.
What to Expect
This addition is estimated to be a $34 million investment, nearly doubling the size of the Anakeesta! New experiences will be added over the course of the next 3 years, so we have a lot to look forward to. Let’s learn more about what’s coming to Anakeesta in Gatlinburg TN:
Astra Lumina Nights
One of the additions is going to be open as soon as this year! Anakeesta is partnering with Moment Factory, a multimedia entertainment studio that’s won several awards, to create Astra Lumina Nights. This is the first experience of its kind in the United States, but the 15th that Moment Factory has opened. Guests will journey through the Great Smoky Mountains during the night and encounter lights, projections, and sounds to experience the mystery of the stars. At the end of the night walk, guests can capture memories with a photo booth. As of now, Astra Lumina will open October 21, 2022. This will be an add-on experience to the regular admission of the theme park.
Hellbender Mountain Coaster
If you don’t already know, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known as the salamander capital of the world! So what does that have to do with Anakeesta? Well, the newest thrilling attraction is named after one of the salamander species you can find in the park: hellbender. This double-rail mountain coaster will get your heart racing with experiential tunnels as you fly through the trees down hill! As of now, there’s no word on when to expect the opening of Hellbender.
Birdventure
The next exciting thing you can expect from Anakeesta in Gatlinburg is Birdventure! This play zone will be made up of 3 birdhouse-inspired structures where kids and adults alike can imagine what life is like as a bird in the Smokies. There will also be several adventure zones and 7 giant serpentine slides that wind 50 feet down the mountainside! This section is expected to open in spring 2023.
A New European-themed Village
So where will all of these new adventures be awaiting guests? In a new European-themed village, of course! This area will feature several retail shops, new restaurants and breweries, and a state-of-the-art entertainment stage with indoor and outdoor seating.
One of the restaurants will be a French-inspired snack shop called Mimi’s Bakery. It will serve sweet and savory treats for every appetite.
For even more ways to take in the beauty of the Smokies, Anakeesta in Gatlinburg TN is adding to their iconic gardens. There will be an interactive waterfall and cave system surrounded by walking trails and incredible landscaping. People will be able to walk behind the falls and explore in the caves.
With this being Anakeesta’s largest expansion to date, there’s so much to look forward to! Until the additions are complete, you can still enjoy the beauty that Anakeesta in Gatlinburg TN currently has to offer, from breathtaking mountain views to thrilling duel ziplines. Check out our Anakeesta coupons to save some money, then head out and have fun at this exciting attraction!
