Visiting Anakeesta Park in Gatlinburg, TN

Anakeesta, 576 Parkway, is a theme park set in downtown Gatlinburg as well as above it. Visitors enter downtown and can take a Chondola ride to the larger portion of the park. Anakeesta is the Cherokee word for "the place of high ground" and it's no secret why the park carries that name as much of it sits 600 feet above Gatlinburg. The park offers a host of great family-friendly activities such as a mountain coaster, a skywalk, restaurants and many others.

While Anakeesta doesn't offer guest parking, there is a paid parking lot on-site for visitors. Nearby parking also includes two parking garages: one at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and the other near Traffic Light 3 called the McMahan Parking Garage. The Country Town N' Suites sits less than a mile from Anakeesta, which is within walking distance.

Another great way to enjoy the beauty of the Smoky Mountains is to take a trip down the Dueling Ziplines Adventure at Anakeesta. Prices are not included in ticket purchases, running about $55 for adults and about $51 for children. There are three different zip excursions and multiple rappels for those interested in soaring through the trees. If you choose this activity, be sure to arrive at the Chondola base station 1.5 hours ahead of your reservation and at the Adventure Outpost about 45 minutes ahead of time.  

There is so much to do at Anakeesta, making it a great place to visit for the entire day. There are many great shops that are fun to visit. If you're looking to fully take in the Smoky Mountains, scale the Anavista Observation Tower. Another great family-friendly activity is the Treetop Skywalk near the park's entrance. This ropes course takes you 50-60 feet into the air. Another great activity is the Treeventure Challenge Course, which is an interactive treehouse for children. There's so much to do that's included with your general admission ticket so be sure to visit them all.