Because the Smoky Mountains are such a popular tourist destination, there are always new activities in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re traveling with a group of friends, or a family with kids, there’s something new for you to try! Here are the top 5 must-see new attractions in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg:
Opened in 2020
We’re excited to look forward to 2021, but there are some can’t-miss attractions that opened last year in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg that you have to visit! Here are some spots that opened in 2020 that you’ll want to check out:
1. Pigeon Forge Axe House
Have a unique family-friendly experience at the Pigeon Forge Axe House! This is one of the new attractions in Pigeon Forge that offers delicious pizza, wings, and ice cold beer while giving you an opportunity to try one of the world’s fastest growing sports. Axe throwing at Pigeon Forge Axe House is a safe, family-friendly experience because the axe coaches will be with you the entire time. This is a great place to stop in with the family, especially since kids under 9 can axe throw for 50% off!
2. Wears Valley Social
Wears Valley Social is an outdoor food truck park that opened in July of 2020. Popular food trucks from the area like A Penne For Your Thoughts, Grillbillies BBQ, and Doug’s Boiled Peanuts are frequently seen selling their delicious food to guests! In addition, to food trucks, Wears Valley Social also has local arts and crafts vendors, as well as live music. The food trucks and the vendors rotate regularly, so you’ll have a unique experience each time!
Opening in 2021
Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg already have tons of fun things to do, but there’s even more coming this year! The following attractions are scheduled to open in 2021:
1. Gatlinburg SkyTrail
Located at the popular Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, the Gatlinburg SkyTrail is a scenic walkway that connects the two ends of the SkyBridge. It’ll only be one-third of a mile in length, so it’s perfect for visitors of all ages! The SkyTrail will be made up of three parts. First, The Boardwalk is an elevated wooden walkway that has signs along the way detailing the history of the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg. Second, The Lookout is a steel tower that you can only access by rope bridges. The last portion of the SkyTrail is The Pathway, a smooth walking path that’s cut directly into the hillside. The SkyTrail is an attraction you don’t want to miss!
2. Pigeon Forge Chairlift
The first chairlift in Pigeon Forge is set to open this year! Located next to Pigeon Forge Snow, the Pigeon Forge Chairlift will carry passengers from the loading point to an 85 foot tall observation tower overlooking Pigeon Forge and the beautiful Smoky Mountains. To get to the top of the observation tower, you’ll walk up a long spiral ramp, allowing you to see Pigeon Forge from all angles.
3. Flying Theater Ride at The Island in Pigeon Forge
The Island at Pigeon Forge is introducing a new Flying Theater Ride in 2021! The ride will combine a state-of-the-art ride system with custom film footage for a one of a kind experience! The Flying Theater Ride allows you to virtually soar over some of the world’s most famous landmarks and natural features. This $20 million investment will be located next to the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to “see” the world while staying right here in Pigeon Forge!
Whether this is your first time visiting the area or you come every year, there are plenty of new attractions in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for you to check out! Find more Smoky Mountain attractions and plan your vacation today!
