While Anakeesta in Gatlinburg is a spectacular destination during the daylight hours, the mountaintop theme park is even more magical in the evening! Whether you’re looking for the perfect date night idea or a fun family activity to enjoy after dinner, head on up the mountain via the Chondola or Ridge Rambler for several hours of fun nighttime entertainment! Here are the top 4 reasons why you’ll love visiting Anakeesta at night:
1. Astra Lumina
Astra Lumina is a special evening event where the Smoky Mountains are transformed into a celestial pathway through the magic of projections, lighting, and music! As you explore this enchanting nightwalk among the stars, you’ll discover an Astra Archway, Celestial Trail, Cosmic Choir, and other interstellar wonders! This is the 15th experience in the Lumina Enchanted Night Walk series and the very first in the United States, so you won’t want to miss this amazing special event! Note that you can add the Astra Lumina event to your full-day Anakeesta admission with a special discount combo ticket!
2. Stunning Views of Downtown Gatlinburg
Another one of the top reasons why you’ll love Anakeesta at night is to experience the stunning views of downtown Gatlinburg! Enjoy one of the many scenic overlooks to see the lights of Gatlinburg twinkle in the valley below. If you arrive early enough, you’ll also have the chance to experience an incredible sunset like no other! One of the best overlooks at Anakeesta is at the Smokehouse Restaurant, where you’ll find panoramic views from the outdoor deck! While there, enjoy a variety of tempting menu items or an ice-cold refreshment from The Bar At The Top Of The World!
3. Cozy Places to Unwind Around the Fire Pit
Gather around the fire pit while you enjoy a sweet treat from Mimi’s Creamery or a local Gatlinburg craft beer from Anakeesta’s Tap House! The warmth of the fire feels delightful on a cool evening, and it creates the perfect ambiance for gathering with your family and friends! The fire pit is located in the Black Bear Village section of the park, a hub of activity where you can listen to music and relax for a bit after an action-packed day in the Smokies!
Keep the warm glow of the fire going when you get back to your Smoky Mountain cabin rental! Browse Gatlinburg cabins with fire pits!
4. Adventures Around Every Corner
You’ll find a variety of things to do at Anakeesta and adventures around every corner! Lighted challenge courses throughout the Anakeesta at night offer fun and safe entertainment for both kids and kids-at-heart alike. If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, go for a ride on the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster and the Hellbender Smoky Mountain Coaster! The nighttime rides on these mountain coasters add an extra level of thrill as there is nothing like racing down the mountain in darkness! The fun continues with various shopping adventures in Firefly Village, where you can pick up all kinds of whimsical gifts and souvenirs!
Where to Stay in Gatlinburg
Our cabins in Gatlinburg TN provide easy access to all of the activities along the downtown strip while offering seclusion and peaceful quiet in the mountains! Whether you’re looking for a pet-friendly cabin or a rental with a private indoor pool, we have plenty of beautiful cabins to choose from. Be sure to take advantage of our last-minute cabin deals and specials to save money!
Check out all of our affordable Gatlinburg cabin rentals today to plan your vacation and stay just minutes away from Anakeesta!
