Gatlinburg, TN never stands still! It seems that every few weeks there is a new business opening in our Smoky Mountain city. In recent months, Gatlinburg has been blessed with a number of exciting new attractions, restaurants, and shops. To help you prepare for your next vacation, Acorn Cabin Rentals has put together a handy guide to what’s new in Gatlinburg.

1. Anakeesta

The most exciting addition to Gatlinburg is definitely Anakeesta! This brand new attraction is located at the top of Anakeesta mountain, which overlooks The Strip. To reach the mountain’s summit, guests can take a scenic chairlift or gondola ride from downtown Gatlinburg. Once you arrive at Anakeesta, you’ll be able to enjoy a variety of fun activities, including dueling ziplines, a treetop canopy walk, treehouse-style playground, boutique shops, and fantastic restaurants.

2. Rowdy Bear Mountain

Rowdy Bear Mountain is a can’t-miss destination for thrill seekers! Visitors to Rowdy Bear will have the chance to ride Gatlinburg’s newest mountain coaster. Built right into the foothills of the Smokies, the Gravity Coaster features plenty of exhilarating twists and turns along with beautiful views of the area. In the fall, Rowdy Bear Mountain is expected to open a second attraction: a Mountain Glider that will allow guests to fly through the air like Superman.

3. Mama’s Chicken Kitchen

Restaurants are another big part of what’s new in Gatlinburg! In the spring, Mama’s Chicken Kitchen opened on the East Parkway. This wonderful eatery is the perfect place to pick up a bucket of fried chicken before heading into the national park for a picnic. Guests at this restaurant will find the same mouthwatering chicken that is available at Mama’s Farmhouse in Pigeon Forge.

4. J.O.E. and Pop’s Sub Shoppe

J.O.E. and Pop’s Sub Shoppe is another new restaurant in Gatlinburg. Located right next door to Mama’s Chicken Kitchen, this sandwich place is quickly becoming one of the area’s hottest lunch spots. Guests can order a variety of delicious subs and sandwiches, including tuna salad, Reubens, Philly Cheesesteaks, and hamburgers. Be sure to save room for dessert because their banana pudding is out of this world!

5. LandShark Bar & Grill

A visit to LandShark Bar & Grill is a must for Jimmy Buffet fans! Named after Buffet’s famous tune, this new restaurant is modeled after the laid-back beach bars on the Atlantic Coast. Guests can enjoy lots of tasty seafood dishes, spectacular burgers, and decadent desserts. LandShark also features a full bar with a great selection of beer, margaritas, wine, and tropical cocktails.

6. Savannah Bee Company

Savannah Bee Company is the sweetest shop in Gatlinburg! Located at the boarding site for the chairlift and gondola rides to Anakeesta, this charming store is dedicated to everything honey. Shoppers will find gourmet honey from around the world, honey-wines, and honey-based health and beauty products. Savannah Bee Company offers regular honey tastings and a mead bar, so you will definitely want to stop by and enjoy a spoonful of honey or a glass of wine.

Now that you know what’s new in Gatlinburg, it’s time to start planning your trip! When you stay with Acorn Cabin Rentals, you will be near all of these new attractions, restaurants, and shops. With everything from 1 bedroom cabins to 8 bedroom cabins, we are guaranteed to have the perfect accommodations for your vacation. Browse our selection of cabins in Gatlinburg to find your ideal home away from home in the Smokies!