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4 Things to Do at Anakeesta Before Dining at Our Restaurant

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treetop skywalk
July 16, 2025

The Park Grill has been proudly serving meals to both locals and visitors alike here in Gatlinburg for over 30 years, so it is little wonder that families often choose to come eat with us after a day of adventures here in the Smokies. If you are planning to come and eat with us soon, but are still deciding what to do beforehand, then you may want to head up the road to check out Anakeesta! This exciting Gatlinburg attraction is located just minutes from The Park Grill, and has lots of fun things to do that will allow you to work up an appetite before joining us for a meal. Here are a handful of the top things to do when you visit Anakeesta:

1. Ride the Scenic Chairlift

chair lift anakeesta

If you have ever passed the entrance to Anakeesta while strolling along the Gatlinburg strip, you already know that the scenic chairlift is actually how you access the park itself! This is an amazing opportunity to soak in the views of the Smoky Mountains as you ascend to Anakeesta. Plus, you can choose between an open-air 4-person chair or an enclosed gondola cabin with room for 6. You can also elect to ride up to Anakeesta in one of their Ridge Rambler vehicles if you prefer not to ride the chairlift.

2. Check Out the Treetop Skywalk

Among the most unique things that you can do when you visit Anakeesta is to check out the Treetop Skywalk, which consists of a series of hanging bridges that connect from tree to tree in the canopy! This is the longest tree-based skywalk in North American, and is a one-of-a-kind way to immerse yourself in the environment of the Smokies.

3. Soar on Their Dueling Zipline Adventure

anakeesta zipline

Another way to experience the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains in a unique way is to take a ride on the dueling zipline adventure at Anakeesta! You will fly through the treetops, while zipping alongside friends or family, combining for an experience you will never forget.

4. Ride a Mountain Coaster

When you visit Anakeesta, you will also be able to ride not one, but two different mountain coasters! The Rail Runner coaster offers scenic views across 1,600 feet of twists and turns, and can reach speeds of up to 25mph. For those seeking maximum thrills, there is also the Hellbender Mountain Coaster, which can exceed 25mph, and features plenty of fast turns, big drops, and, of course, lots of views of the Smoky Mountains.

When you check out some of these fun things to do at Anakeesta before dining with us here at The Park Grill, you are sure to have a great time, while also working up a big appetite for your meal! Plus, if you want to skip the wait after a long day of adventures, you can reserve a table at our Gatlinburg restaurant right here, ensuring that we will have a spot ready for you. We look forward to seeing you soon here at The Park Grill!