Anakeesta Announces $100 Million “Making More Magic” Expansion

A New Era of Adventure in the Smokies

Big things are happening on the mountain! Anakeesta has unveiled Making More Magic, a bold five-year, $100 million expansion that will transform the beloved mountaintop adventure park like never before. The plan includes new attractions, immersive village experiences, upgraded park features, and unforgettable ways for families to explore the Great Smoky Mountains.

This is the largest expansion in Anakeesta’s history and one designed with purpose, imagination, and community at its heart.

“We’re not just imagining the park of tomorrow; we’re building it for generations of families who will feel wonder, delight, and connection at every turn,” shared Bryce Bentz, President of Anakeesta.

What Is “Making More Magic”?

Making More Magic is a multi-phase vision that will double Anakeesta’s footprint, enhance the guest experience, and introduce brand-new adventures across the park over the next five years. From reimagined attractions to elevated dining and new immersive environments, Anakeesta is preparing to deliver even more unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages.

Phase 1 Arrives in 2026: A Fresh Start

Phase 1 introduces a brand-new way to begin your adventure at Anakeesta, and it brings exciting enhancements to some of the park’s most beloved spaces.

🚡 Next-Generation Scenic Lift | Spring 2026

Since opening in 2017, the iconic Chondola has carried millions of guests to the summit. In 2026, a completely new lift experience will take its place and take the journey to new heights.

Coming with the new lift system:

• 56 state-of-the-art glass-bottom cabins
• 360° panoramic Smoky Mountain views
• Room for up to 6 guests per cabin
• A stunning, four-minute scenic ascent

From the sweeping valleys below to the skyline of downtown Gatlinburg, guests will enjoy a breathtaking aerial experience from the moment they leave the Parkway.

To make room for construction, Anakeesta will temporarily close on January 5, 2026, reopening in early March with Ridge Rambler access until the new lift debuts later that spring.

🧚‍♂️ Firefly Village Reimagined | Spring 2026

Firefly Village is getting a magical makeover! The redesigned village will feel like stepping inside a storybook, complete with:

• Whimsical pathways and water features
• Inviting gathering spaces
• A brand-new scenic overlook with sparkling day-to-night views

It’s the perfect blend of charm, imagination, and Smoky Mountain beauty.

🌲 An Elevated Treetop Skywalk Experience | Spring 2026

The nation’s longest Treetop Skywalk is about to become even more spectacular. The refreshed experience will include:

• New observation towers
• Expanded bridge pathways
• Fresh forest-canopy viewpoints

Guests will wander deeper into the treetops with new sights and sounds to discover high above the forest floor.

🔥✨ The Firefly Experience | Fall 2026

Inspired by the Smokies’ world-famous synchronous fireflies, this new nighttime attraction will create year-round magic. Through immersive lighting, storytelling, and nature-based artistry, guests will step into a twinkling environment that captures the wonder of one of the region’s rarest natural phenomena.

Phase 2 & Beyond: Even More Magic Coming 2027+

Beginning in 2027, the next chapter of the expansion introduces new thrills, new dining, new attractions, and new family-focused gathering spaces.

Anakeesta has confirmed that Phase 2 will continue delivering imagination, adventure, and “core memory” moments, and will ensure every visit feels completely new.

Throughout the expansion, guests can expect behind-the-scenes looks, progress updates, and sneak peeks that bring the community along for the journey.

Built for the Smoky Mountain Community and the Future

Making More Magic is more than an expansion, it’s a commitment to honoring the spirit of the Smokies while inspiring joy for generations to come. Whether you visit for the views, the thrills, the food, or the family experiences, Anakeesta is preparing to deliver even more reasons to return again and again.

Follow Anakeesta’s expansion journey and learn more at Anakeesta.com.