4 Exciting Changes Coming to Anakeesta with Their Major Expansion in 2026
4 Exciting Changes Coming to Anakeesta with Their Major Expansion in 2026
A new chapter of magic is rising at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg with a $100 million expansion project! From soaring high above the valley on a new glass-bottom lift to exploring an expanded treetop adventure and getting lost in the twinkling glow of a year-round firefly experience, every addition invites you to see the mountain like never before! This is all just the beginning of a 5-year plan that will include thrilling new adventures, reimagined spaces, and magical moments among the stunning backdrop of the Smokies! Here are 4 exciting new changes coming to Anakeesta with their major expansion in 2026:
1. New Scenic Lift with Glass-Bottom Cabins
At the heart of Anakeesta’s multi-year expansion plan is a state-of-the-art lift system that will completely redefine the journey to the mountaintop! The original Chondola opened in 2017 and has carried millions of guests, serving as the gateway to Anakeesta’s mountaintop adventures. Now, an all-new lift is being constructed from the ground up that is faster, higher-capacity, smoother, and more reliable to ensure that the magic begins the moment you leave the Parkway! The stunning new lift will feature 56 spacious, glass-bottom cabins with 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains and is scheduled to launch in the spring of 2026!
2. Reimagined Firefly Village
Another one of the exciting new changes coming to Anakeesta with their major expansion in 2026 is a reimagined Firefly Village! While this area of the park is already known for its whimsical charms, it will become even more of a storybook escape with winding pathways, flowing water features, and carefully crafted spaces that feel alive with wonder! The village will glow with magic throughout the day and evening, and it will feature a brand-new overlook where guests can take in sweeping views of Gatlinburg!
3. Elevated Treetop Skywalk
The Elevated Treetop Skywalk is one of the most popular attractions at Anakeesta and the longest of its kind in North America, complete with 880 feet of spectacular hanging bridges that are suspended 50 to 60 feet in the air! As if that doesn’t sound impressive enough, the attraction is getting even better in 2026 with some exciting new upgrades! Additional towers, bridges, and pathways will lead you deeper into the forest canopy, opening up another brand-new overlook of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains beyond!
4. Nighttime Firefly Experience
You’ll definitely want to hang around into the evening hours at Anakeesta this spring with the Nighttime Firefly Experience! There is nothing more enchanting than the sight of fireflies lighting up the forest at night, and now you’ll be able to experience this magic all year long! Using state-of-the-art lighting and design, Anakeesta is recreating the timeless beauty of synchronous fireflies so every guest can experience their glow regardless of the season!
Where to Stay in Gatlinburg Near Anakeesta
Do you want to be one of the first people experience the exciting new changes at Anakeesta this spring? Then you need to find a place to stay! Check out our Gatlinburg condo rentals located in the heart of town with 1 to 3 bedrooms, an outdoor pool, and more!
