Nashville Unites with Memphis, Gatlinburg, Chattanooga, Knoxville, Pigeon Forge and More in Tennessee to Lead US Tourism with Major New Attractions, Hotels, and Experiences Openings in 2026

Published on December 4, 2025

By: Rana Pratap

In 2026, Tennessee’s top cities—Nashville, Memphis, Gatlinburg, Chattanooga, Knoxville, Pigeon Forge and more —are coming together to transform the US tourism scene with a wave of exciting new attractions, hotels, and experiences. Nashville will celebrate Dolly Parton’s legacy with the Songteller Hotel, while Memphis introduces the Memphis Art Museum to its cultural landscape. Gatlinburg’s Anakeesta expansion, featuring a new scenic lift and the immersive Firefly Experience, will bring visitors closer to the Smoky Mountains than ever before. Pigeon Forge will thrill guests with the NightFlight Expedition at Dollywood, and Knoxville will enhance its dining scene with Mōkumōku, a modern Japanese restaurant. Chattanooga will also make waves with the opening of Erlanger Park. These new developments not only elevate Tennessee’s tourism but also cement the state’s place as a leader in US travel, offering a diverse blend of adventure, culture, and world-class hospitality in 2026.

New Attractions, Exhibits, and Experiences

Smoky Mountains – A Walk in the Woods, a local outfitter, will expand its Blue Ghost and Synchronous Firefly experiences. These guided tours, focused on conservation, will offer an opportunity to witness the firefly magic in the Smoky Mountains through evening programs and wilderness immersions in May and June.

Pigeon Forge – Dollywood is gearing up for the opening of NightFlight Expedition in spring 2026 at Wildwood Grove. This thrilling ride will offer visitors an aerial view of the Smokies, allowing them to navigate raging rapids, climb mountain peaks, and glide over shimmering lakes—an exciting adventure for the whole family.

Gatlinburg – The Anakeesta expansion, aptly named Making More Magic, is set to take visitors on a journey through the Smoky Mountains with the launch of a new scenic lift, a reimagined Firefly Village, an expanded Treetop Skywalk, and the Firefly Experience. This immersive, nighttime adventure will allow visitors to fully appreciate the beauty of the Smokies, making it a must-see for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike.

Cornersville & Beyond – Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop will bring a modernized version of Southern hospitality to travelers. Opening in Cornersville in early summer 2026, this rebranded travel stop will provide a new, elevated experience for road trippers, while supporting local communities and creating jobs.

Knoxville – The KnoxWalls Murals & Music Festival will take place in May 2026, offering visitors the chance to watch live mural painting competitions and enjoy performances by local musicians. It’s a celebration of Knoxville’s vibrant creative community, blending art and music in a unique and interactive way.

Chattanooga – Known as America’s only National Park City, Chattanooga is set to become even more exciting in 2026 with the opening of Erlanger Park. This new baseball stadium will be a hub of activity, bringing green spaces, family-friendly energy, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere to the city’s Riverfront District.

Delano – Outdoor adventurers will want to check out Ocoee River State Park, which is set to open in 2026. Known for its whitewater rafting and immersive outdoor experiences, the park will showcase East Tennessee’s natural beauty and provide visitors with plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Jonesborough – The iconic Clydesdale Draft Horse Team will make an appearance at Jonesborough’s St. Paddy’s Festival in 2026, celebrating Celtic culture with Irish music, Highland games, and a vibrant marketplace. It’s sure to be a fun-filled event for families and visitors of all ages.

Granville – Independence Hall in Granville will open with TN America 250 exhibits, offering a journey through Tennessee’s rich history and its impact on the country. The hall will serve as a living museum, preserving the stories and artifacts that define the state and the nation.

Clarksville – The Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum, opening on March 29, will be the second-largest museum in the nation’s Army-museum enterprise. This new attraction will honor the legacy of service members with exhibits and artifacts that chronicle their remarkable contributions.

Memphis – The Memphis Art Museum, opening in December 2026, will feature galleries, classrooms, a café, and an “art park in the sky” with sculptures and native Tennessee plants. Visitors will also enjoy panoramic views of downtown Memphis and the Mississippi River, making this an art lover’s dream destination.

New Hotels and Places to Stay

Nashville – The Songteller Hotel, opening in June 2026, will be a tribute to Dolly Parton’s life and legacy. The hotel will feature Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum, a rooftop bar, live entertainment, and immersive storytelling elements inspired by Dolly’s iconic songs. It’s an experience that will captivate both Dolly’s fans and travelers seeking a unique stay in Music City.

Chattanooga – The Waymark Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga, will revitalize a historic 1927 bank building, offering contemporary accommodations while retaining its classic grandeur. Guests will also enjoy The Vault, a subterranean speakeasy, providing a chic, intimate space for relaxation and entertainment.

Jefferson County – For those looking to reconnect with nature, Wyldstay Smoky Mountains will offer a one-of-a-kind luxury retreat overlooking Douglas Lake and the Smokies. This secluded retreat will provide a tranquil escape with unparalleled views of the mountains.

Gatlinburg – The Scoundrel Hotel will open in 2026 across from the Gatlinburg Convention Center. With spacious rooms, an open-air courtyard, and Appalachian-inspired design, this boutique hotel will offer a new type of experience for visitors to Gatlinburg.

New Restaurants, Music Venues, and More

Memphis – Briza, opening inside Crosstown Concourse, will combine bold global flavors with Memphis hospitality, offering everything from inventive sushi rolls to wood-fired seafood and prime steaks. It’s set to become a cornerstone of Memphis’ culinary scene.

Nashville – The team behind Noko and Kase x Noko will debut their third restaurant, Kuya, in West End Nashville in 2026. Known for their creative, Asian-inspired dishes, this new venue will continue their tradition of culinary excellence.

Nashville – The Mix Room, opening in fall 2026, will be a state-of-the-art venue enabling artists to live-stream immersive shows to fans worldwide. The Truth, a venue by Live Nation, will feature three fan levels, a whiskey bar, and a listening lounge for a dynamic, elevated music experience.

Knoxville – Mōkumōku, a modern Japanese restaurant with an interactive sushi bar, will open in late summer or early fall 2026. With an extensive menu of hot dishes and a sake program, it’s sure to become a go-to dining destination in Knoxville.

Jonesborough – Jackson’s Prime, a fine-dining restaurant in Tennessee’s oldest town, will offer USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and a curated wine and bourbon selection. Visitors can also check out Merely Modest Boutique, a curated fashion boutique founded by 17-year-old entrepreneur Lakely Asher.

New Breweries, Distilleries, and More

Nashville – Chaipolitan, opening in summer 2026, will be a cozy teahouse in Music Row, offering a design-forward space for tea enthusiasts and weekend vibe seekers. Its modern atmosphere will make it a perfect retreat for tea lovers.

Clarksville – Leatherwood Distillery will expand to a new, larger location in downtown Clarksville in January 2026. Visitors will enjoy distillery tours, tastings, and live music in a state-of-the-art venue.

Fayetteville – Revolutionary Tavern, opening in the historic Fayetteville Square, will offer Southern favorites with a twist, craft cocktails, and a vibrant, patriotic atmosphere. It’s sure to be a hit for those craving delicious food in a unique setting.

Tullahoma – Ole Shed Brewing Company, a popular local brewery, will move to a new facility in Tullahoma, offering craft brews, live music, and local food trucks.

Chattanooga – The Reading Room, Chattanooga’s first bookish bar, will open in 2026, offering a literary experience with exceptional drinks, delicious food, and an inviting atmosphere for book lovers.

Gatlinburg – Alibi, a speakeasy hidden behind a coffee shop, will be the first of its kind in Gatlinburg. Visitors will step into a world of Prohibition-era glamour, handcrafted cocktails, and immersive décor, creating a unique nightlife experience.

Renovated and Reimagined Venues

Memphis – The National Civil Rights Museum’s Legacy Building, opening in spring 2026, will take visitors through the pivotal moments of the civil rights movement. Additionally, the Metal Museum will move to its new location in Overton Park, showcasing fine metalwork in a beautiful new setting.

Nashville – Nashville Arcade will continue its revitalization with the addition of new restaurants and bars like Bar Roze and Sushi by Scratch, further enhancing its status as a vibrant downtown destination.

Chattanooga – The Tivoli Theatre, a cultural landmark known as the “Jewel of the South,” will reopen in mid-2026 with a new 190-seat cinema, expanded lobby, and additional event spaces.

Iconic Anniversaries

Memphis – Overton Park Shell will celebrate its 90th anniversary, while Overton Park celebrates 125 years of providing recreation, culture, and nature in Memphis.

Nashville – Loveless Cafe will mark 75 years of serving Southern comfort food and legendary biscuits, while The Catbird Seat celebrates 15 years as one of the nation’s most celebrated fine dining destinations.

Walland – Blackberry Farm will celebrate its 50th anniversary, offering wellness, culinary experiences, and outdoor adventures in the breathtaking Smoky Mountains.

Gatlinburg – Best Italian, a beloved local staple, will reopen in 2026 on its 50th anniversary with a top-to-bottom remodel, blending its rich heritage with a refreshed space.

Conclusion: Tennessee’s Tourism Surge in 2026

From Nashville’s Songteller Hotel and Memphis’ groundbreaking new art museum to the expansive Anakeesta and Dollywood experiences, Tennessee is primed for an incredible tourism boom in 2026. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, history, or relaxation, the state promises something for everyone. With new attractions, world-class hotels, vibrant dining scenes, and iconic anniversaries, Tennessee is set to lead the charge in US tourism this year. Plan your visit and experience all the state has to offer—2026 is the year to explore the Volunteer State.