Anakeesta's $100M Expansion: Everything You Need to Know About "Making More Magic"
by Mountain MamaListen, I've been creating Smoky Mountain content for years now – like, I've hiked every trail, toured hundreds of cabins, and shared basically my entire life in these mountains with y'all. And when Anakeesta reached out to show me what they're planning next? I literally got chills. This isn't just another attraction announcement. This is a $100 million love letter to the Smokies, and it's about to change everything we know about mountaintop adventures in Gatlinburg.
I'm talking glass-bottom gondolas, reimagined forests, fireflies that glow year-round, and so much more magic coming over the next five years. So grab your coffee (or your pumpkin spice whatever), because we need to talk about "Making More Magic" – and why you're going to want to plan multiple trips to see it all unfold.
What Is "Making More Magic"?
Here's the thing – Anakeesta has been Gatlinburg's number one attraction for years, and they could have just kept doing what they're doing. But instead, they're investing $100 million over the next five years to create something even more special.
As Anakeesta President Bryce Bentz put it: "Making More Magic is not just about growth, it's about purpose. As we've grown, so has our responsibility to innovate while honoring the spirit of the Smokies. 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."
That's exactly what the Smokies are all about – creating those memories that stick with families forever.
What's Opening in 2026? (Phase 1)
2026 is going to be HUGE. Here's what's coming in the first phase:
The Next-Generation Scenic Lift (Spring 2026)
This is the star of the show. Remember the original Chondola that's been carrying guests up the mountain since 2017? It's getting completely replaced with something next-level.
The new lift system will feature 56 glass-bottom cabins with panoramic 360-degree views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Like, imagine gliding up the mountain for four minutes with the forest, wildlife, and downtown Gatlinburg unfolding beneath your feet. Each cabin fits up to 6 people, so your whole crew can experience it together.
And honestly? The journey up is going to become just as magical as the park itself. It's faster, higher-capacity, and designed to make every moment feel special from the second you leave the Parkway.
Important timing note: To build this incredible new lift, Anakeesta will temporarily close on January 5, 2026. They'll reopen in early March with access via the Ridge Rambler, and then the brand-new lift debuts later in the spring (expected around May 2026).
Reimagined Firefly Village (Spring 2026)
Firefly Village is getting a complete transformation into what they're calling a "whimsical storybook escape." Picture winding pathways, flowing water features, and thoughtfully designed gathering spaces that feel alive with wonder day and night.
Plus, there's going to be a brand-new overlook with breathtaking views of Gatlinburg. Perfect for those sunset photos that are about to blow up your Instagram feed.
Enhanced Treetop Skywalk (Spring 2026)
If you've walked the Treetop Skywalk (already the longest in North America!), you know how incredible it is. Now they're taking it to new heights – literally. New towers, expanded bridges, and winding canopy pathways will immerse you even deeper into the forest experience.
Fresh perspectives, thrilling new vantage points, and that feeling of being suspended among the trees? Sign me up.
The Firefly Experience (Fall 2026)
Okay, this one has me so excited. If you've ever seen synchronous fireflies in the Smokies (which only happens once a year and is absolutely magical), you know how special it is. Now, Anakeesta is recreating that mesmerizing dance of light year-round using state-of-the-art immersive lighting design.
Guests will be surrounded by the glow of fireflies in every season, blending art, technology, and storytelling into a breathtaking spectacle. It's giving enchanted forest vibes, and I'm here for it.
What's Coming After 2026? (Phase 2 & Beyond)
Phase 2 kicks off in 2027, and while they're keeping some details under wraps for now, here's what we know:
- New thrilling rides (heart-pounding adventures are coming!)
- Bold new dining experiences (elevated flavors on the mountain)
- New family spaces designed for creating core magical memories
- And plenty more surprises throughout the five-year expansion
They're releasing updates and sneak peeks as construction unfolds, so you can follow along at Anakeesta.com or @anakeesta on social.
My Anakeesta Experience (Watch the Full Tour!)
Before all these incredible new changes come, I wanted to show you what makes Anakeesta so special right now. Earlier this year, I took y'all on a full tour of the park – from the Chondola ride up to the mountain coasters, treetop walks, and those views that literally take your breath away.
Watch my complete Anakeesta tour here! You'll see exactly why this place has captured so many hearts and why this expansion is going to take it to a whole new level.
Will Anakeesta Be Open During Construction?
Great question! The park will be open throughout most of the expansion, with just a few planned closures:
Phase 1 Timeline:
- January 5, 2026: Temporary closure begins for lift construction
- Early March 2026: Partial reopening with Ridge Rambler access
- Spring 2026 (around May): Full reopening with the brand-new scenic lift
So if you're planning a trip, you can still visit Anakeesta during most of the construction period. They're designing the phases to minimize disruption while keeping the magic alive.
What About Annual Passholders?
Anakeesta is taking care of their loyal guests during the temporary closure. Here's how it works:
- Passes expiring between 1/5/2026 and 5/31/2026: Automatically extended by 3 months
- Passes purchased between 6/1/2025 and 11/4/2025: Automatically extended by 3 months
- New passes purchased between 11/5/2025 and 6/1/2026: Includes 15 months of unlimited visits
If you have questions about your specific pass, check your account on Anakeesta's pass portal or email guestrelations@anakeesta.com.
Why This Expansion Matters for Gatlinburg
Listen, Anakeesta isn't just building for themselves – they're investing in Gatlinburg's future. This $100 million expansion means:
✨ More jobs for the local community
✨ More visitors to support Gatlinburg businesses
✨ Strengthening the local economy for years to come
✨ Preserving the spirit of the Smokies while creating something innovative
As someone who's been visiting these mountains since childhood, it's so cool to see a company that truly understands what makes this place special and is committed to honoring it while moving forward.
The Three Guiding Principles Behind "Making More Magic"
What I love about this expansion is that it's not just about building new stuff – it's about building with purpose. Anakeesta's three guiding principles are:
1. Exploration: Every space should spark curiosity and invite discovery
2. Harmony: Growth must feel true to its place, honoring the Smoky Mountains
3. Legacy: What they build today becomes the memories of tomorrow
And honestly? That's exactly what the Smokies have always been about – creating experiences that families carry with them forever.
How to Follow Along
Want to stay updated on all the behind-the-scenes magic as construction unfolds? Here's how:
📱 Follow @anakeesta on social media for sneak peeks and updates
🌐 Visit Anakeesta.com for official announcements and renderings
📧 Press inquiries: media@anakeesta.com
💌 Guest questions: guestrelations@anakeesta.com
Planning Your Visit During the Expansion
If you're planning a Smoky Mountains trip in the next few years, here's my advice:
For 2025-Early 2026: Visit before the January closure if you want to experience the original Chondola one last time. The park is operating normally through January 4, 2026.
For Spring 2026: Wait until May-ish for the full experience with the brand-new scenic lift, reimagined Firefly Village, and enhanced Treetop Skywalk. This is going to be THE time to visit.
For Fall 2026: Come back for the debut of the Firefly Experience during peak fall foliage season. Imagine those glowing lights mixed with the orange and gold of the mountains? Absolutely magical.
For 2027 and Beyond: Keep coming back! Each year will bring new thrills, flavors, and adventures as Phase 2+ unfolds.
Where to Stay During Your Anakeesta Adventure
Pro tip from yours truly: if you're coming to Gatlinburg for Anakeesta's new attractions, you want to stay somewhere with mountain views and easy access to downtown. Check out some of my favorite cabins that are perfectly positioned for your Anakeesta adventure:
For Couples:
Lost in Love Cabin – hot tub, firepit, arcade loft
Theo's Treehouse – cozy treehouse vibes near downtown
The Flame Azalea – luxury Scandinavian treehouse with Mount Le Conte views
For Families:
Gray Fox Den – theater room, arcade, hot tub, minutes to Gatlinburg
Presley's Retreat – indoor pool, arcade, mountain views
Overlook Swim Lodge – heated indoor pool with Smokies views, theater room
Browse all cabins here and filter by what matters to you – views, hot tubs, group size, distance to Anakeesta, whatever!
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love Anakeesta, and it is one of my top places I recommend first timers to visit. This is one of the most ambitious expansions I've seen in the Smokies, and it's being done by people who genuinely get what makes this place special. Anakeesta isn't just throwing money at new attractions; they're crafting experiences that honor the mountains, support the community, and create memories that last forever.
Whether you're a longtime Anakeesta fan or you've never been, the next five years are going to bring something truly special to Gatlinburg. Glass-bottom gondolas gliding over the forest, reimagined villages glowing with magic, fireflies dancing year-round, and thrilling new adventures around every corner.
Mark your calendars for spring 2026 – that's when the magic really starts. And if you have ANY questions about planning your trip or finding the perfect cabin with views of the mountains where all this is happening, just reach out!
Can't wait to see what Anakeesta creates next. Let's go experience some mountain magic together! 🏔️✨
– Mountain Mama
P.S. – Want to see real-time updates as construction progresses? Follow me on TikTok and Instagram – I'll be sharing behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks, and all the latest news as "Making More Magic" unfolds. Trust me, you're not going to want to miss this!
Questions about visiting Anakeesta or booking your Smoky Mountain cabin?
📧 Email: brittany@mamacabins.com
📱 Text: (865) 412-4122
🌐 Website: mamacabins.com
