The Smoky Mountains are gearing up for one of their most exciting years yet. From cutting‑edge rides to immersive mountaintop expansions, 2026 is bringing fresh energy to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Here’s a look at the biggest new attractions arriving in the coming year.

🎢 NightFlight Expedition – Dollywood (Opening 2026)

Dollywood is raising the bar once again with NightFlight Expedition, a groundbreaking attraction set to debut in 2026. This ride blends roller‑coaster thrills, dark‑ride storytelling, and whitewater adventure elements into one seamless experience. Guests will board a high‑tech expedition craft and embark on a journey through dramatic landscapes, atmospheric lighting, and immersive scenes that bring the Smokies to life in a whole new way. NightFlight Expedition is poised to become one of Dollywood’s most talked‑about attractions — a must‑ride for thrill‑seekers and families alike.

🏁 Checkered Flag Slot Car & R/C Complex – Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is adding a brand‑new indoor attraction for racing fans of all ages. The Checkered Flag Slot Car & R/C Complex brings together:

• Competitive slot car racing
• High‑speed drag racing lanes
• A detailed R/C crawling course

This hands‑on attraction is designed for both beginners and seasoned hobbyists, offering a fun, interactive experience that’s perfect for families, groups, and rainy‑day adventures. With multiple track styles and skill levels, it’s shaping up to be one of the most unique new entertainment options in the Smokies.

🌄 Anakeesta’s Major Expansion – Gatlinburg

Anakeesta is in the midst of a multi‑phase expansion that will transform the mountaintop village into an even more immersive outdoor destination. Highlights of the expansion include:

🚡 Upgraded Chondola System

A new fleet of larger, faster chondolas will make the ride to the summit smoother and more efficient, reducing wait times and improving the overall guest experience.

🌉 Expanded Treetop Skywalk

The beloved canopy walk is growing with additional bridges, new vantage points, and enhanced lighting for magical nighttime strolls among the treetops.

✨ Firefly Forest Night Experience

A brand‑new after‑dark attraction will recreate the magic of the Smokies’ synchronous fireflies using artistic lighting and immersive forest pathways — perfect for evening visits.

🌿 New Scenic & Family Areas

More outdoor play zones, nature‑integrated installations, and scenic overlooks are being added, giving guests even more ways to explore the mountain.

Anakeesta’s expansion is one of the largest in its history and will bring fresh energy, new views, and more reasons to visit throughout 2026.