A GUIDE TO PIGEON FORGE’S BEST NEW ATTRACTIONS, AND SHOWS.
If you have been a regular visitor to Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and the Great Smoky Mountains over the last several years you may have noticed that, while some things stay the same, there are always new and exciting attractions and shows being added to the area. Here is my list of what I feel like are the best new things that have been added in 2026 to an already exciting one-of-a-kind destination.
- SLICK CITY ACTION PARK:
- Coming soon to the former Top Jump location, Slick City Action Park is the first of its kind indoor attraction featuring more than 20 heart-pounding slides where you tackle steep drops, spirals, and eye-watering speed. You will also enjoy their dodgeball and basketball air courts, arcade games and much more. Though no exact opening date has been announced, regional tourism sources are anticipating a summer opening hopefully sometime in July.
- DOLLYWOOD’S NIGHTFLIGHT EXPEDITION:
- Shaping up to be one of the most ambitious rides the park has ever built, NightFlight Expedition is a world-first indoor family hybrid attraction, themed to a nighttime journey through the Smoky Mountains. It blends roller coaster elements with whitewater raft-style action, boat ride scenes, immersive dark ride storytelling, and special effects and projections. Officially projected to open Spring of ’26, however, many fans suspect late spring or summer depending on final testing.
- RIPLEY’S ILLUSION LAB:
- Ripley’s Illusion Lab is an interactive attraction located in Pigeon Forge that explores perception, perspective, and optical trickery through immersive exhibits. It is part of the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! family of attractions, and offers hands-on experiences combining art, science, and entertainment. Located on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, this attraction is currently open and in full operational mode.
- SWEETS AND PLAY:
- A brand new attraction in Pigeon Forge, featuring an indoor candy-themed mini-golf course, an arcade where you can play skill-based redemption games and win prizes, interactive “play zones,” and a candy shop/sweets market. It’s designed as a “sweet-themed indoor family fun center” where you can enjoy delicious treats and play exciting games in the same building. Sweets and Play is located on the Parkway in the former Beyond the Lens building and right next to the Array Theater. For rainy day entertainment or for birthday parties, come visit this colorful immersive “candy world” and satisfy your craving for fun!
- BUFORD’S BOOGERTOWN BUS TOUR:
- Buford is well known in the Smokies as a comedian, ventriloquist, and tour guide. He’s been entertaining audiences here in the Great Smoky Mountains for over 30 years. His vast historical knowledge of Pigeon Forge, Sevier County, and everyone who had a hand in making this community what it is, combined with his hilarious personality and flair for storytelling make this a tour not to miss while vacationing in the area. As a bonus, “Buford’s Boogertown Bus Tour” will also take you to eat lunch at Boss Hogg’s BBQ……one of the best BBQ restaurants in town. Visit boogertownbus.com to enjoy this unique experience.
- THE SWEET SPOT:
- The Sweet Spot is a new family-friendly entertainment venue and attraction coming to the Parkway in Pigeon Forge. Next to The Array Theater, The Sweet Spot is expected to open in Spring 2026. This exciting new attraction will feature indoor PGA-level golf simulators, HitTrax baseball hitting bays, interactive mini-golf, and chimney cake ice cream cones, making it a key spot for gaming, snacks, and entertainment. For family fun, rainy day activities, and group events/birthdays, be sure and visit The Sweet Spot where the entire family can fill up on fun!
- “MOUNTAIN MELODIES” SHOW AT THE ARRAY THEATER:
- Array Theater, now in its 4th season is debuting a brand-new show for the 2026 season called Mountain Melodies….Songs for the Soul. Mountain Melodies is a heartwarming and entertaining show that features inspiring harmonies, soulful gospel music, and lighthearted, family-friendly comedy. From the first note to the final encore, this uplifting performance captures the joy, hope, and togetherness that music brings. Audiences of all ages will be drawn in by the rich vocals, heartfelt storytelling, and genuine warmth shared on stage. Visit arraytheater.com or call 865-245-4386 for showtimes.
With so many new fun and exciting things happening in and around Pigeon Forge it’s easy to leave something out. Please know that is not my intention, but I did want to make you aware of what I feel are some of the best new activities to experience while visiting our wonderful city of Pigeon Forge in the heart of these Great Smoky Mountains.