Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge & Sevierville: Fresh Attractions, Dining, and More
No better chance to visit the Great Smoky Mountains in winter could be found than this year. Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville see new exciting things and local food options open up during January 2025. A day hiking in the mountains or even along the streets downtown gives you fresh reasons to come back to the Smokies.

New Food & Drink Spots Worth Trying
Mountain Cut Distillery (Sevierville)
The recent addition to Sevierville’s distillery scene is getting lots of local attention. Small-batch spirits made to honor Appalachian distilling are at the heart of what Mountain Cut Distillery produces. Try a tasting tour guided by a local expert, find out about whiskey distilling and choose a whisky to take with you on your trip.
Stone Cabin Coffee & Cheesecake Company
When you’re tired from sightseeing, feel free to stop here. You can enjoy fresh espresso beverages and a new cheesecake choice whenever you visit us. It gives adventurers a space to relax between their activities.
Jersey Hustle Pizzeria & Tiger Mom Boba Tea
Wanting something tasty? Their pizza is made like pies in New Jersey, with lots of options for toppings and a tasty crisped crust. Tiger Mom Boba Tea is the place to go for a sweet bubble tea drink that you can’t get anywhere else in the Smokies.
Attractions Lighting Up Pigeon Forge in 2025
Crayola & NERF Xperience (Coming Soon)
Later this year, the Crayola Experience and NERF Action Xperience are being opened for visitors to take part in interactive fun for all ages. Imagine a blend of pretty designs, lively activities and a protected indoor area and you get the perfect family activity for winter!
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville
This new Compass hotel gives off a tropical feeling high in the mountains. Experience ease, poolside relaxation and tasty food at the 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill. You’ll be nearby other Pigeon Forge attractions, since it’s centrally located.
Gorilla Taco & Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster
At Gorilla Taco, flavors and fun come together in this fun place. After you’ve eaten, head out to the all-new Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster, a dual track roller coaster meant for everyone to enjoy a friendly duel.
What’s New in Downtown Gatlinburg
SkyPark Trails, Restaurant & Scenic Views
Gatlinburg SkyPark is adding a number of new walking paths that allow visitors to reach scenic vantage points, one of which is the “Trail to the Bottom.” SkyPark Restaurant which just opened, offers both amazing views of the mountains and dishes inspired by the region. It is the ideal treat once you’re through your winter walk.
Bodies Human Exhibit
Gatlinburg’s Bodies Human is one of the standout new tourist attractions. Anyone interested in science or the human body will not want to miss our real human specimen exhibit.
Other Downtown Highlights
Enjoy a quiet day strolling along downtown Gatlinburg to see the shops, ToyChest Company collectibles and the great cinnamon pastries at The Village. Check out The Tin Roof for great Smoky Mountain style food, live entertainment and a fun atmosphere.
Events & Seasonal Highlights
Wilderness Week
To mark Wilderness Week in January, Gatlinburg offers guided hikes, workshops and educational activities all through the park. You can feel close to nature, pick up some new skills and spend pleasant days in the outdoors in cold weather.
Dinner Shows & January Restaurant Deals
Don’t forget to take advantage of the rotating restaurant offers in January in the Smokies. Several local restaurants sectionalize decisions about their website and mobile development, allowing them to create custom websites and mobile apps for different locations. Scout’s Shack works well with Hatfield & McCoy or Pirates Voyage, two famous dinner shows in Myrtle Beach.
Watch the Full Video Tour
You can experience all these updates, including SkyLand Ranch’s WagonWheeler Swing Tower, backstage kitchen moments and winter walks in downtown Gatlinburg, by viewing the full video in the link above.
You can find the activity on YouTube here.
Final Thoughts
2025 in the Smokies has fresh reasons to visit in January. Whether it’s tastes of spirit at Mountain Cut Distillery, coasters racing in Pigeon Forge or new hiking trails at SkyPark’s Greenspace in Gatlinburg, there’s always something thrilling to do. Pack your jacket, neck wrap or hoodie, grab a friend or partner and come explore all there is to see and do in the Sevierville, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area this winter.