What’s Happening
What's Happening in the Smokies?
Discover what's new and exciting to experience in 2024
Every year brings exciting new options for you and your family to experience while visiting the smokies, and 2024 is pulling out all the stops. In this article, you will find some highlighted new options to explore when visiting the smokies, but there is always more to see and do than we can cover!
First up, The America Eagle Foundation has opened their brand-new facility in Kodak, near exit 407. Embark on a soaring adventure at the premier raptor experience in the world! You can explore the nation’s largest aviaries, spread your wings in their Raptor museum, and frolic like a falcon on the Raptor Roost playscape. With over 40+ resident raptors, you can see eagles, hawks, owls, falcon’s and vultures. Witness an avian training session, watch bald eagles in flight, see a raptor paint on canvas or a raven help to save the planet by recycling. Learn the story of the world-famous bald eagles like Challenger and Osceola as you stroll through the museum, and test your bird knowledge, measue your wingspan against several native species or capture the perfect selfie. Kid’s can enjoy the Raptor Roost playground, take flight on a zipline and run through an obstacle course, then visit the unique gift shop to adopt a stuffed version of your favorite bird. All of the proceeds from your purchase and admission goes directly to the care of the real birds of prey that the foundation was created to help conserve and protect! The American Eagle Foundation is located at 510 Kodak Rd. in Kodak Tennessee, and is the perfect place to make unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
Next up is the brand-new Space Race Adventure in Pigeon Forge! Located at 2891 Parkway, you can explore new worlds with their megaverse VR encounter, ride the hurricane VR simulator, play warzone games, play a round of starscape mini-golf and drive the fastest 8 track go-karts in town! Throw in their cutting edge iCombat laser tag, and you have space, speed and more at Pigeon Forge’s Newest Attraction!
Located at Tanger Outlet Mall in Sevierville is the smokies first, and only all digital oceanic adventure at Xperia: Ocean Journey! This up close and immersive experience brings you face to face with humboldt squid, killer whales, great white sharks, jelly fish, sea lions and so much more. This revolutionary new way to experience the wonders of the ocean via an immersive digital cinematic voyage is unlike anything else that you have ever seen. Xperia is located at the back of Tanger Mall, and is open now to the public!
Of course, you cannot have a list of the exciting new options in the smokies without some food! Roma Table Italian Kitchen has just opened on Collier Drive in Sevierville, directly across from Wal-Mart. This “Smoky Mountain Made” menu is filled with the best Italian options that can be found anywhere in the smokies. Already opening to rave reviews, Roma Table has elevated Italian dining to an entirely new level! They feature handmade pastas, pizzas baked on a stone hearth and classic Italian entrees, creating an environment that is perfect for everything from a romantic dinner to a family outing. Personally, I can tell you that they have a lemoncello butter cake that is the absolute best dessert that I have ever eaten. Make sure to stop in and enjoy what is sure to be the highlight of your smoky mountain dining experience.
Next up, you can embark on the world’s first Epic Golf Adventure, Sky Pirates of Mermaid Bay, located at 2420 Parkway in Pigeon Forge. This immersive experience offers not one, but two exhilarating courses – indoor and rooftop mini golf – set against the backdrop of a fantastical world filled with daring sky pirates and enchanting mermaids. Engage in swashbuckling fun as live pirates and mermaids make appearances, providing interactive entertainment that captivates visitors of all ages. Capture the magic with themed photo ops that bring the adventure to life, while a face painting and dress-up station allow guests to fully embrace their inner pirate or mermaid. Satisfy your sweet tooth with themed candy and retail offerings, and indulge in their signature concession items, including the already famous Pineapple Dole Whip Floats. Sky Pirates of Mermaid Bay is more than a mini golf experience; it’s a thrilling escapade that combines interactive entertainment, imaginative settings, and delicious treats, making it the ultimate family-friendly attraction in Pigeon Forge.
Rounding out some of the other amazing new options, be sure to check out the new “Lost Mine Mountain Coaster and Mini Golf” in Pigeon Forge, which is set to become a must-visit destination for families, friends, and adventure enthusiasts alike. As a next-generation attraction, Lost Mine has created an immersive story line and world-class theming. The mountain coaster and miniature golf offers the perfect blend of entertainment, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re uncovering the secrets of the honey mines, enjoying the excitement of a night ride, or taking in the mountain views, this attraction guarantees lasting memories. Prepare for an action-packed journey through nature and the enchanting world of bees & bears – a journey you won’t want to miss!
