Anakeesta is the perfect place for adventure and relaxation. You can play, shop, eat, and relax in the beauty of the Smoky Mountains at Anakeesta. The beginning of your Anakeesta journey begins in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg. You will then decide how to get to the top of Anakeesta mountain. There are several choices including an open-air chairlift ride or the enclosed gondola cabin. Maybe heights aren’t your thing. The other option is the Ridge Rambler, which is a passenger truck that will drive you to the top of the mountain. If you’re lucky, you might see a bear on the way up!
Things to do at Anakeesta
The Treetop Skywalk is one of my favorite features at Anakeesta. Treetop Skywalk is a set of hanging bridges suspended throughout the trees. As you make your way through the bridges, you can take in the natural beauty of the tree canopy for the perfect photo opportunity. Anavista Tower is the observation tower. The Anavista tower is a platform that one climbs to the top for a 360 degree view of the Smokies. Birdventure, an aviary-inspired playground, is perfect for the kids. The Treehouse Adventure Play Area and the Treeventure Challenge Course are two more treehouse-style playgrounds that are so much fun for the kids to explore. All of these activities are included in your admission cost.
There are several add-on options that are not included in your general admission cost. For the thrill-seekers there are ziplines and two mountain coasters, the Hellbender and the Rail Runner. I have not been brave enough just yet for the ziplines, but we love both of the mountain coasters. Gem Mining is another family fun activity offered. Astra Lumina is a unique experience at Anakeesta. Through the use of lighting, music, and projections, Astra Lumina is designed to allow visitors to connect with the stars and the world around them. Astra Lumina opens 30-minutes after sundown until closing of the park.
If relaxing or taking it easy is more of your style, Anakeesta is for you too! Multiple areas have rocking chairs to relax and take in the sights of the Smokies. There are many food and drink options also on the mountain top. The Smokehouse Restaurant and Clifftop Restaurant, along with several bar-style options are available with the most magical views. Don’t forget the ice cream shop!
Seasonal fun
Anakeesta is a great place to experience the different seasons and changing scenery of the mountains. The current seasonal festival is the United Tastes of America. The United Tastes of America is a food and drink festival that allows the option to soar through the country selecting food and drink choices specific to certain states. For example, the featured item for the state of Georgia is Sweet Georgia peach ice cream. Yum! America-inspired entertainment and decor also makes this the perfect Summer festival. This festival ends August 11. The Bear-Varian Fall Festival begins September 13, and the Christmas Experience is scheduled to begin November 15.
Final Answer
Yes, of course Anakeesta is worth it! If you purchase your general admission tickets online in advance, adults are $36.99 and children (ages 4-11) are $24.99. There is also a season pass option, which is worth the cost if you plan to go to Anakeesta twice or more within a year. Admission includes all day access to the park and the major features. To get the best bang for your buck, I recommend going early in the day to get the day-time views, and to go back to Anakeesta at night to catch the sunset followed by the lights of downtown Gatlinburg. You will not regret this adventure!
For more information on Anakeesta, you can visit their website at https://anakeesta.com/.
Are you looking for more Summer fun? Check out this link for more Summer activities to enjoy with your family: https://takemetothesmokymountains.com/5-best-activities-with-kids-when-visiting-the-smoky-mountains/.