A Culinary Journey Is Expected This Summer at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg

Anakeesta is no stranger to fantastic events, but this one will tickle the taste buds like no other. The United Tastes of America will begin on May 24th and last until August 11th. It will feature food favorites from different regions throughout the country. They will be found at locations scattered around the Anakeesta adventure park—the most popular outdoor attraction in Gatlinburg.

The price tag for this months-long tasting journey is $49, but don’t be turned off by the price. What I’m about to show you are some of the foods which will be offered that likely will make you easily consider this add-on to your experience. We all know how much money you can rack up on food during vacation, so this is a viable option if you’re craving a little variety, in addition to all the great Tennessee cuisine you’ll find here in the Smoky Mountains.

Getting your pass is simple. Just purchase it online at Anakeesta.com, or visit the ticket booth, and then you can redeem it at any redemption kiosk in the park—if purchased online. You will also receive a souvenir lanyard you can proudly display as you're crossing the country-wide cuisine choices.

I am going to list all the culinary delights on the menu for United Tastes of America at Anakeesta this summer; however, the Kentucky and Carolina-inspired items are not included on the tasting pass. Those will need to be purchased separately, but it’s hard to imagine you won’t find at least 7 of the remaining choices worth trying. Here they are!

The Carolinas

MAMA’S BISCUITS & GRAVY

Mouth-watering trio of classic, chorizo and smokey red pepper sawmill gravies served alongside fluffy buttermilk biscuits, perfect for dipping and savoring every Carolinas-inspired bites.

THE CAROLINA’S CHEER MAKER COCKTAIL

A refreshing fusion of Cheerwine cherry soda and shot of smooth whiskey. A true taste of Southern hospitality in every sip.

Carolinas items are not included in the Tasting Card

Georgia

SWEET GEORGIA PEACH ICE CREAM

Treat your taste buds to a smooth, fruity arrangement of peaches and cream, a sweet treat infused with Southern charm.

Texas

EVERYTHING'S BIGGER CHICKEN FRIED STEAK

Experience the ultimate Southern favorite with our chicken fried steak – tenderized steak coated in seasoned flour and fried to crispy perfection, then topped with a classic peppered sawmill gravy, bringing the taste of Texas straight to your plate.

LONE-STAR PALOMA COCKTAIL

Savor tangy tequila combined with grapefruit soda and fresh lime in our Paloma cocktail, a refreshing Texan twist on this classic cocktail.

SPECIALTY CRAFT BEER

A changing selection of local Texas craft beer.

Washington

HAND-PICKED APPLE FRITTER

Indulge in the irresistible crunch of our apple fritter. Luscious apple filled dough deep-fried to golden perfection and topped with whipped cream and apple glaze, a taste of Washington’s finest flavors.

Maine

MORNING CATCH LOBSTER ROLL

Dive into the Maine coastline with wild-caught Maine lobster lightly tossed in mayonnaise and piled into a classic griddled New England-style roll, a coastal delicacy that captures Maine’s culinary heritage.

SPECIALTY CRAFT BEER

A changing selection of local Maine craft beer.

Kentucky

RUN FOR THE ROSES BOURBON SALMON

Antarctic salmon seared to perfection and topped with a tantalizing bourbon glaze, served with chef’s vegetables and herb-smashed potatoes for a Kentucky-inspired culinary experience.

BLUEGRASS BOURBON BREAD PUDDING

A rich and flavorful Kentucky treat topped with bourbon caramel, whipped cream, and fresh berries, a true taste of Southern traditions.

WINNER’S CIRCLE BOURBON FLIGHT

A four-step journey of rich Kentucky bourbon samples featuring four half-ounce pours. Pairs perfectly with any Clifftop dinner sure to elevate your dining experience.

*Kentucky items are not included in the Tasting Card*

Illinois

CLASSIC CHICAGO DOG

Experience the Windy City’s legendary Chicago dog, topped with sliced tomato, dill pickle, pickle relish, sport peppers, and celery salt on a poppy seed bun with a taste of Chicago in every bite.

HOT ITALIAN BEEF SANDWICH

Taste flavorful savory perfection with our Hot Italian beef sandwich – shaved sirloin in au jus topped with mozzarella, fire-roasted red peppers, red onion, and sport peppers in a toasted hoagie bun, a hearty taste of Chicago.

Colorado

SPECIALTY CRAFT BEER

A changing selection of local Colorado craft beer.

Hawaii

BIG ISLAND DOLE WHIP®

Transport your taste buds to Hawaiian paradise with our Dole Whip® – a blend of fresh fruit and sunshine churned into a creamy soft-serve delight, capturing the tropical flavor in every spoonful.

California

NAPA VINEYARDS FROSÉ

Chill out in true Califorian style with our Frosé – a frozen Rosé wine slushy, perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day.

New Mexico

CANYON CLIMB CHORIZO TACO

Spice up your day with our chorizo taco – classic smokey pork topped with cheese, fresh pico de gallo, lettuce and avocado served in a warm flour tortilla, creating a fusion of authentic New Mexican tastes.

SANTA FE CHURRO BITES

Perfectly fried golden churro bites, filled with dulce de leche, rolled in cinnamon sugar, and topped with whipped cream and caramel sauce. A classic sample of America’s Southwest flavors.

FOUR CORNERS MARGARITA

Sip on a cool sweet and salty blend of tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice, served with a salted rim.

Louisiana

THE BAYOU’S MEANEST GUMBO

A parade of your favorite Cajun comfort food. A hearty stew made from shrimp, chicken, and andouille sausage, served with honey cornbread inspired by Louisiana’s French Quarter.

NEW ORLEANS SIGNATURE HURRICANE COCKTAIL

A tropical concoction of rum, passion fruit juice, orange juice, and grenadine, bringing your taste buds on a wave of flavor.

Now I know your mouth is watering after reading these food creations, but you must wait until May 24th to satisfy those cravings for some adventurous fare to go along with your visit to Anakeesta!

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