From a zipline adventure to dinner with a view, Anakeesta in Gatlinburg has it all. This magical outdoor experience has been entertaining visitors for more than a year, and is now being recognized as a top attraction. The Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association named it the “State Attraction of the Year.” We’ve got all the details on Anakeesta’s recognition and what you can expect when you visit.
Anakeesta Named State Attraction of the Year
The Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association recognized Anakeesta as the State Attraction of the Year. This award was a part of the State of the Industry Awards, which are presented to individuals, companies, and industry partners whose commitment to hospitality and tourism has improved the overall industry statewide. In addition to winning statewide recognition for being the best attraction, Dakota Hicks, the zipline manager at Anakeesta, won the award for Tourism Employee of the Year for a small organization. Bob Bentz, managing partner of Anakeesta, said that the team at Anakeesta has worked hard to create a quality attraction where families could enjoy discovering the great outdoors together.
The Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association is the leading voice of the lodging, dining, and tourism industry in the state of Tennessee.
More About Anakeesta in Gatlinburg
It’s no surprise that Anakeesta was recognized as a top attraction. There is something for everyone at this magical theme park. Whether you want to get your adrenaline pumping or just kick back and enjoy a spectacular view of the mountains, you can do it all when you visit Anakeesta. Your adventure begins with a scenic Chondola right to the summit of Anakeesta Mountain. Along the ride, you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of Gatlinburg below. Once you reach the top, you will enter Firefly Village, where the real adventure begins. You can choose to shop, dine, or play at Anakeesta. Find out more about fun things to do at Anakeesta!
Shop
Anakeesta offers a unique shopping experience. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Great Outdoors Trading Company, which has Smoky Mountain books and everything you need for a day of hiking in the mountains. The shop also has a variety of Appalachian arts, pottery, crafts, jewelry, home goods, and more. If you visit with your children, be sure to take them to Catching Fireflies, which has toys designed to ignite their imagination, as well as a unique line of children’s clothing and costumes.
Dine
Throughout your fun-filled day, you’re sure to work up quite the appetite. Luckily, there are plenty of places to dine at Anakeesta. Enjoy some classic Southern barbeque at Anakeesta Smokehouse, have a burger while admiring a gorgeous view at Cliff Top Grill & Bar, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a frozen treat at Pearl’s Pie in the Sky.
Play
There is something for people of all ages to enjoy at Anakeesta! Soar through the air beside the person of your choice on the Dueling Zipline Adventure, or let the kids run around and challenge themselves at the Treehouse Village Playground! If you really want spectacular views of the mountains, try the Tree Canopy Walk. The Tree Canopy Walk has 16 connected sky bridges, each with their own observation platform to take in the scenery. You’ll be 40 to 60 feet above the forest floor! These are just some of the many things to do at Anakeesta.
Where to Stay
When you visit Anakeesta in Gatlinburg, stay in one of our Gatlinburg cabins! We have cabins that are perfect for every occasion, from romantic getaways to large group vacations. You will have all the comforts of home in your cabin, along with all the benefits of staying in the Smoky Mountains. Choose from a variety of amenities like hot tubs, pool tables, theater rooms, and more to find the ideal place for your dream vacation.
Come visit this award-winning attraction to see for yourself what makes it so special. Browse all of our Gatlinburg cabins and start planning your trip to Anakeesta.
