We’ve visited Anakeesta several times over the years, but this visit was unlike any other. We recently attended Anakeesta’s grand reopening celebration to experience the brand-new Crystal Express and see firsthand what is new at one of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions. If you’ve visited Anakeesta before, you’ll immediately notice the biggest change. The journey to the top of the mountain is now an attraction all on its own!
Meet the Crystal Express
The Crystal Express is Anakeesta’s brand-new gondola system and the world’s only all-glass gondola ride. The enclosed cabins feature glass floors and panoramic windows that surround guests with views of the Smoky Mountains in every direction. The ride travels more than 2,000 feet up the mountainside and reaches the summit in about four minutes. That is SO much faster than they used to be. One thing I loved about the new gondolas is how family-friendly they are. Strollers can roll directly into the cabins, loading is easy, and the new system was designed to move guests more efficiently than before. As we rode up the mountain, the views of downtown Gatlinburg and the Smokies were incredible. Even after multiple visits to Anakeesta, the Crystal Express made the experience feel completely new.
More Than a New Gondola
The Crystal Express is part of Anakeesta’s larger “Making More Magic” expansion, a multi-year project that includes new attractions, enhancements and guest experiences throughout the park. In addition to the new gondola system, the Firefly Experience is now open. Step into the twinkling wonder of the Smokies with Anakeesta’s new Firefly Experience, a year-round journey inspired by one of nature’s most magical displays. Woven throughout the reimagined Treetop Skywalk, this immersive experience brings the phenomenon of synchronous fireflies to life through glowing pathways, choreographed lighting, and storytelling that captures the mystery and beauty of the mountains after dusk.While the gondolas may be the headline attraction, there are plenty of reasons to spend an entire day exploring once you reach the top.
Our Favorite Things to Do at Anakeesta
No matter how many times we visit, there are a few attractions we never skip. AnaVista Tower continues to be one of our favorite spots in the park. As the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg, it offers panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and is the perfect place to take in the scenery. The Treetop Skywalk is another must-do. Stretching through the forest canopy, it gives visitors a unique perspective of the mountains while allowing you to slow down and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Our kids also love the mountain coasters, TreeVenture Challenge Course, playgrounds and open spaces to explore. One of the things that makes Anakeesta so special is that it appeals to every age. There are thrills for adventurous visitors, but there are also plenty of opportunities to relax, enjoy the views and simply spend time together.
Dining and Shopping on the Mountain
Another reason we always end up staying longer than planned is the variety of dining and shopping options throughout the park. Whether you’re looking for a full meal, a quick snack or ice cream for the kids, there are plenty of choices. We especially enjoy taking a break, grabbing something to eat and soaking in the mountain views before heading off to the next attraction. Right now Anakeesta has its United Tastes of America going on. Try 22 foods and drinks from 13 different states with either a 5 or 7 star punch card. The servings are big, and the food and drinks I tried were all so good! The shops are also worth exploring and offer everything from souvenirs to unique gifts inspired by the Smokies. All three of the kids went home with souvenirs they loved!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never been to Anakeesta, this is a great year to visit. And if you’ve visited before, the new Crystal Express alone is worth seeing for yourself. The combination of the all-glass gondolas, incredible views, family-friendly attractions, dining, shopping and ongoing expansion projects makes Anakeesta one of the most unique attractions in Gatlinburg. After attending the grand reopening and experiencing the Crystal Express firsthand, I can honestly say that Anakeesta has managed to make one of our favorite Smoky Mountain destinations even better. The ride to the top is now part of the adventure, and we can’t wait to see what they add next! Have you been to Anakeesta this year yet?
