What's New at Ober Gatlinburg This Summer
Published May 1, 2026What's New at Ober Gatlinburg This Summer
The iconic Smoky Mountain landmark is back — with a new name, a reimagined tubing hill, fresh food, and more adventures than ever before. And the perfect cabin is waiting for you when the day is done.
High above the streets of downtown Gatlinburg, one of the most beloved attractions in the Smoky Mountains is gearing up for its most exciting summer yet. Ober has been closed since April 20 for its annual maintenance window — but this year, the crew isn't just doing tune-ups. They're building brand-new attractions, overhauling the dining scene, and even bringing back a cherished name. Here's everything you need to know before you head up the mountain.
A Tubing Hill Like Never Before
Summer tubing has been an Ober staple for years, but this summer the experience is being completely reinvented. The new tubing hill features three lanes — one standard and two elevated. The second lane sits higher and faster, with two rollers along the track for extra air time. The third lane climbs even further, extending above the retaining wall with three rollers for those who want maximum speed and maximum thrills.
More speed, more air, more fun. Three lanes of varying height and intensity mean visitors of every thrill level can find their perfect ride — and those who dare can work their way up to the wildest lane.
New Attractions Across the Mountain
The tubing hill isn't the only new addition. This spring's work crews have been busy adding experiences that fill in gaps in the activity lineup — perfect for guests who want something a little different from roller coasters and ziplines.
Disc Golf Course
A brand-new disc golf course winds through the mountain terrain, offering a relaxed but engaging way to enjoy the scenery and fresh air.
Archery Range
Test your aim at the new archery range — a first-of-its-kind attraction at Ober and a great option for families and groups looking for something hands-on.
Mountain Bike Skills Area
A new skills area on Lower Castle Run features jumps of varying sizes and difficulty — ideal for riders who want to practice before hitting the full trail network.
Refreshed Green Space
Nearly all of the outdoor turf has been torn out and replaced with a re-leveled, fresh surface. Chair swings, the inflatable slide, and the obstacle course relocate to this improved area.
A Revamped Dining Experience
Hungry after a run down the bobsled or a zip across the treetops? The Sidewalk Cafe is getting a complete overhaul this season — new name included. Alpine Slice Co. is merging with a reimagined Smoky's Grill to create a single, modernized dining space that ditches the old wood paneling in favor of a fresh, contemporary layout. Two great food options, one convenient spot. Beyond the new space, Slope Side and Fiddle & Pick barbecue remain fan favorites.
Everything Else You Love Is Still There
Gatlinburg Aerial Tram
The iconic 2.1-mile tram ride from downtown — freshly maintained this spring for an even smoother ride up the mountain.
Cloud Catcher Zipline
Launched from the summit of Mount Harrison — the highest-elevation zipline in the entire region.
Tennessee Flyer Coaster
Race through the Smoky Mountain forest on this thrilling mountain coaster with stunning views at every turn.
Sky Village Express Lift
Ride to the summit of Mount Harrison — the highest lift-served peak in the Smokies — for sweeping views from the observation deck.
Smoky Mountain Bobsled
Control your own speed on this winding mountainside ride — a perennial crowd favorite for all ages.
Indoor Ice Skating & Bumper Cars
Beat the summer heat inside the ice rink — open year-round, rain or shine, with bumper cars on ice for extra laughs.
Where to Stay: Heartland Cabin Rentals
A day on the mountain deserves a perfect place to come home to. When you're planning your Ober Gatlinburg summer trip, make it a full Smoky Mountain experience by staying with Heartland Cabin Rentals — one of the most trusted and established cabin rental companies in the Gatlinburg area.
Gatlinburg's Premier Cabin Rental Company
Family-owned and locally operated since 1993, Heartland Cabin Rentals has spent more than 30 years helping visitors make the most of their Smoky Mountain vacations. With cabins available in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Wears Valley, they offer everything from cozy romantic retreats to spacious family lodges that sleep large groups comfortably.
Heartland is an Accredited Business with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau — and their guests keep coming back year after year. Their local team knows the area inside and out, so you're not just booking a cabin, you're getting the guidance of true Smoky Mountain insiders.
Every stay includes Heartland's free Gateway to Fun Pass — a collection of discounts on local attractions that helps stretch your vacation budget even further. After a big day at Ober Gatlinburg, nothing beats soaking in a mountain-view hot tub with the Smokies spread out before you.
Browse Cabins at heartlandrentals.comPlan Your Visit
Ober Gatlinburg reopens on Wednesday, May 14, 2026. Nothing will be open during the maintenance closure (April 20 – May 13), so plan your trip for mid-May onward to catch all the new additions. Pair your mountain day with a cabin booked through Heartland Rentals, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable Smoky Mountain summer.
Ober Gatlinburg is located atop Mount Harrison above downtown Gatlinburg. Ride the Aerial Tram from 1001 Parkway or drive up Ski Mountain Road. Visit obermountain.com for tickets and heartlandrentals.com to find your perfect cabin — or call Heartland at (865) 430-9093.
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