A scenic view of lush green forested hills near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, with a few houses scattered, set against a distant range of blue mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Anakeesta in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

March 30, 2026

Blog,Gatlinburg,Gatlinburg Attractions,Winter in Gatlinburg

Anakeesta is a must-visit destination for families, couples, and groups. It is the perfect blend of excitement and calmness, allowing visitors to enjoy both high energy activities and peaceful activities within a single visit.

Things to Know Before Your Visit

Visitors cannot drive personal vehicles up to Anakeesta’s mountaintop park. Access is only available via the Chondola or Ridge Rambler from the base station in downtown Gatlinburg.
There is no on-site parking at Anakeesta’s entrance. Guests must use nearby parking lots and garages in downtown Gatlinburg and then take the Chondola lift or Ridge Rambler up to the park.
While private vehicles are not permitted, guests can use the Gatlinburg Trolley to reach the base of Anakeesta.

Ticketing Information

Anakeesta offers a variety of ticket options to cater to different visitors:

General Admission: Provides all-day access to the park, including unlimited rides on the Chondola and Ridge Rambler, as well as entry to attractions like the AnaVista Observation Tower, Treetop Skywalk, Vista Gardens, TreeVenture Challenge Course, Treehouse Adventure Play Area, and BirdVenture.
- Adults (Ages 12-59): $34.99
- Children (Ages 4-11): $22.99
- Seniors (Ages 60+): $27.99
- Children 3 and under: Free

For more information visit Anakeesta’s FAQs.

For those seeking year-round adventures, the VIP Annual Pass is an excellent choice:

VIP Annual Pass:
- Adults (Ages 12-59): $69.99
- Children (Ages 4-11): $57.99
- Seniors (Ages 60+): $62.99
Benefits:
- Unlimited visits for a full year
- Special VIP access to the Express Lane
- 20% discount on retail, food and beverages (excluding alcohol), adventure activities (Dueling Zipline Adventure, Coaster Passes, Astra Lumina, and Gem Mine), and photo packages
- One free Buddy Pass to bring a friend (valid after the first visit)

For Tennessee residents, Anakeesta offers a special Tennessee Resident Pass:

Tennessee Resident Pass:
- Price: $37.99
- Validity: January 3, 2025 – December 31, 2025
- Includes:
  - Free admission for the entire calendar year
  - A one-time Coaster Pass valid for two rides on either The Hellbender or Rail Runner Mountain Coaster (valid on the day of pass redemption or until March 16, 2025)
  - 20% discount on future Coaster Pass purchases, Zipline, Astra Lumina, all food and beverages (excluding alcohol), and retail items
  - A one-time Buddy Pass for a friend, available upon your second visit
- Redemption Period: Passes must be purchased online and redeemed in person at the ticket booth located at 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN, between January 3, 2025, and March 16, 2025. A valid Tennessee ID is required upon redemption.

Information last updated: February 28, 2025; Prices are subject to change. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit Anakeesta’s official ticketing page.

Anakeesta Discounts and Special Offers

Anakeesta provides several discounts to make your visit more enjoyable:

Military Discount: Active and retired military personnel can receive a 10% discount on single-day admission tickets when purchased on-site at 576 Parkway in Gatlinburg.
AAA Discount: Members can enjoy a 10% discount on single-day admission tickets when purchased on-site.
Sevier County Locals Discount: Residents receive a 20% discount on single-day admission tickets when purchased on-site.
Combo Packages: Anakeesta has partnered with local attractions to offer combo tickets, allowing visitors to experience more while saving money. For example, packages may include admission to Anakeesta and other popular destinations like the Titanic Museum Attraction or CLIMB WORKS.
Online Purchase Savings: Buying general admission tickets online can save you $2 per ticket and reduce wait times at the entrance.

Please note that discounts and offers are subject to change. It’s recommended to check Anakeesta’s official website or contact their customer service for the most current information before planning your visit.

Information last updated: February 28, 2025. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit Anakeesta’s official FAQs page.

Getting to Anakeesta: How to Travel Up the Mountain

Anakeesta is located at 576 Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg, but the adventure starts before you even reach the mountaintop. Visitors can choose from several unique transportation options to ascend 600 feet to the park’s entrance, each offering its own perspective on the Smokies’ natural beauty.

Chondola – A Hybrid Lift for Every Comfort Level

The Anakeesta Chondola is the first of its kind in the U.S., offering both open-air chairlifts and enclosed gondolas. Guests looking for fresh mountain air can opt for a four-person chairlift, while families with small children, seniors, or those preferring extra comfort can take the enclosed gondola cabins for a smooth ride. Each ride provides stunning views of downtown Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains, making the ascent part of the experience. The Chondola ride itself can be a highlight for many visitors, offering a chance to soak in panoramic views before even stepping foot in the park. Additionally, the gondola cabins are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers, with dimensions of 32 inches wide and 49 inches deep, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.

Ridge Rambler – A Scenic Jeep-Style Adventure

For a more immersive journey, the Ridge Rambler offers a guided expedition up the mountain in a military-style vehicle. This open-air experience allows guests to learn about the natural beauty of the Smokies as they travel up winding forest roads. The Ridge Rambler provides a unique, educational perspective, giving visitors insights into the diverse plant life and wildlife of the region. Perfect for those who want to explore at a slower pace, this adventure allows for up close encounters with the lush Smoky Mountain terrain.

Dining at Anakeesta: More Than Just a Meal

Anakeesta offers a diverse selection of dining options, ranging from casual bites to fine dining experiences (with the best views of the Smoky Mountains). Whether you’re looking for a quick snack between adventures or a romantic meal with a stunning sunset backdrop, Anakeesta has you covered.

Cliff Top Restaurant

Located in Black Bear Village, Cliff Top Restaurant is a must-visit for those seeking delicious American cuisine with an unbeatable mountaintop view. The menu features handcrafted burgers, steaks, and fresh salads, making it a great stop for a great hearty meal. For those who love classic comfort food with a gourmet twist, the Cliff Top’s signature dishes, like truffle fries and flame-grilled ribeye, are highly recommended. Enjoy your meal on the expansive outdoor patio, where you can watch the sunset brighten the Great Smoky Mountains.

Smokehouse Bar & Grill

For a true Smoky Mountain BBQ experience, the Smokehouse Bar & Grill serves up pulled pork, smoked brisket, and mouthwatering ribs with signature house-made sauces. Pair your meal with a craft beer or cocktail while enjoying views of the mountains. The open-air seating allows visitors to soak in the crisp mountain air while enjoying authentic Tennessee barbecue.

Kephart Café

For a quick bite, Kephart Café serves up delicious flatbreads, BBQ, and grab-and-go snacks perfect for refueling between adventures. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try the hand-scooped ice cream, freshly baked pastries, or the Anakeesta specialty dessert, a rich chocolate lava cake topped with homemade whipped cream.

Beer and Wine Garden

For those looking to relax and unwind, the Beer and Wine Garden offers a selection of local craft brews and wines, served in an open-air setting with breathtaking views. This is a perfect stop for visitors looking to enjoy an evening drink while taking in the stunning mountain views.

Explore More

To explore the full menus of these restaurants, visit: Anakeesta Dining Options

Family-Friendly Activities at Anakeesta

Anakeesta is a fantastic destination for families, offering a variety of activities designed to entertain visitors of all ages. From interactive experiences to adventure zones, children and parents alike will find plenty to enjoy.

TreeVenture Challenge Course

A multi-level playground, TreeVenture features bridges, climbing nets, and treehouses that encourage kids to explore and interact with nature in a fun and exciting way. Parents can relax while kids burn off energy in this safe and engaging environment.

Gem Mining

Little adventurers can pan for gemstones at Anakeesta’s interactive gem mining station. This hands-on activity allows children to discover stones while learning about geology. The excitement of searching through sand to reveal buried gems makes this both a fun and informative activity.

Treetop Skywalk

A great experience for families, this 450-foot-long skywalk is made up of hanging bridges suspended 50-60 feet above the ground, allowing visitors to walk among the trees while taking in stunning forest views.Suspended high above, this walkway allows visitors to take in stunning views of the Smoky Mountain canopy from a whole new vantage point.

Interactive Wildlife Exhibits

Learn about the wildlife of the Great Smoky Mountains through interactive exhibits placed throughout the park. Guests can spot birds, small mammals, and other creatures in their natural habitats. Rangers and staff also provide educational talks to help visitors better understand the local ecosystem and conservation efforts.

Mountain Coasters

For thrill-seekers, Anakeesta offers two exciting mountain coasters:

Rail Runner Mountain Coaster: This single-rail coaster provides a unique downhill ride with twists and turns, offering an exhilarating experience for riders.
Hellbender Mountain Coaster: As the newest addition, this double-rail coaster features heart-pounding twists, gravity-defying drops, and breathtaking views during its 3,350-foot journey down the mountain.

Dueling Zipline Adventure

Soar through the treetops on Anakeesta’s Dueling Zipline Adventure. This activity allows families to race side-by-side on ziplines, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience combined with stunning views of the Smokies.

AnaVista Observation Tower

Climb to the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg atop the AnaVista Observation Tower. This tower offers 360-degree panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains, making it a must-visit for families wanting to capture memorable photos.

BirdVenture

An immersive play area, BirdVenture features three larger-than-life birdhouses and multiple adventure zones. Children can explore, climb, and slide through this aviary-inspired attraction, making it an exciting addition to Anakeesta’s family-friendly activities.

With such a diverse range of attractions, Anakeesta ensures that every family member, from the youngest to the oldest, finds something enjoyable to make their visit unforgettable.

Romantic and Date Night Ideas

Heart Twigloo – A Must-Visit for Couples

For couples looking to capture a magical moment, the Heart Twigloo is a must-see attraction at Anakeesta. This beautifully handcrafted heart-shaped arch, made from intertwined twigs and branches, serves as a romantic backdrop for unforgettable photos. Located within Anakeesta’s scenic landscape, the Heart Twigloo offers stunning views of the Smoky Mountains, making it a perfect spot for proposals, anniversaries, or simply a heartfelt memory together.

For couples looking to enjoy a romantic getaway, Anakeesta offers several experiences perfect for creating unforgettable memories:

Sunset at AnaVista Tower – Witness breathtaking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains as the sun sets, making for an intimate and picturesque experience.
Dinner at Cliff Top – Enjoy a gourmet meal with incredible mountaintop views, perfect for a special night out.
Astra Lumina Experience – Walk through a glowing forest where twinkling lights, celestial projections, and immersive sounds create a magical nighttime journey unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Seasonal Events at Anakeesta (Updated: February 28, 2025)

Anakeesta hosts seasonal celebrations that enhance the guest experience year-round. Each event is designed to highlight the charm of the Smoky Mountains throughout the changing seasons. The calendar is packed with festivals, themed nights, and interactive activities that immerse visitors in the beauty of each season.

Spring & Summer:

United Tastes of America (May 23 – August 10) – A culinary festival featuring flavors from different U.S. regions, live entertainment, and unique food pairings. This event provides an opportunity to sample diverse cuisines while enjoying stunning mountaintop views.

Fall:

Bear-varian Beer Festival (August 29 – October 31) – A fusion of Appalachian traditions and Oktoberfest, featuring craft brews, Bavarian cuisine, and stunning fall foliage views. This event combines the cozy feel of autumn with the excitement of seasonal festivities.

Winter:

Enchanted Christmas (November 14 – January 4, 2026) – The park transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with millions of twinkling lights, holiday treats, and a magical ambiance. Enjoy warm seasonal beverages, festive music, and a cozy atmosphere.

For more updates on current events, visit: Anakeesta Seasonal Events

Parking Near Anakeesta

While Anakeesta does not have on-site parking, visitors can find several convenient parking options nearby. Given the popularity of the park, it’s advisable to plan ahead, especially during peak travel seasons.

Parkway Parking Lot – Located adjacent to Anakeesta’s entrance, this lot is a short walk from the Chondola and Ridge Rambler station.
McMahan Parking Garage (520 Parkway, Traffic Light #3) – A city-owned parking structure with 366 spaces, costing $10 per day.*
Aquarium Parking Garage (161 Ripley’s Aquarium Way) – Another $10 per day garage located next to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies *
Park and Ride Lots – The Spur Welcome Center and City Hall Complex offer free parking with shuttle services into downtown Gatlinburg, making it a budget-friendly option for those willing to take a short ride into the city.

*Prices are subject to change, last updated: 2/28/2025

For those visiting during peak seasons, arriving early is recommended to secure a convenient parking spot. Many visitors choose to explore downtown Gatlinburg before or after their visit to Anakeesta, making the proximity of parking to the city’s attractions an added convenience.

Cabins Near Anakeesta

For those looking to stay near Anakeesta, our Mountain Top cabins are available just a 5-minute drive from the park. Enjoy a relaxing mountain retreat with hot tubs, game rooms, fireplaces, and stunning views..

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Mountain Majesty

12 Guests5 Bedrooms9 Bath

Swimming pool
Hot tub
Game room

Sweet Escape

14 Guests6 Bedrooms9 Bath

Swimming pool
Hot tub
Game room

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Hidden Gem Masterpiece