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The 407: Gateway to Adventure
A Major Economic and Cultural Development by Kituwah LLC
The 407, also known as Gateway to Adventure, is a large-scale destination development led by Kituwah LLC, the economic development arm of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Located at Exit 407 off Interstate 40 in Sevierville, Tennessee, the project sits at one of the most heavily traveled entrances to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States.
Designed as a long-term investment in economic diversification, The 407 combines retail, entertainment, lodging, dining, and immersive cultural experiences across more than 200 acres. The development is intended to serve both travelers passing through the region and visitors seeking a destination experience, while generating sustainable revenue and opportunity for the tribe and its shareholders.
A Strategic Location with National Reach
Exit 407 is a critical gateway for millions of visitors traveling to and from the Smoky Mountains each year. By developing land at this key crossroads, Kituwah LLC has positioned The 407 to capture year-round tourism traffic while creating a welcoming first impression for visitors entering the region.
The site’s visibility and scale make it uniquely suited for destination-level attractions, national brand partnerships, and experiential offerings that encourage longer visitor stays and repeat visits. This strategic placement supports both immediate economic activity and long-term growth potential.
Key Developments at The 407
One of the earliest and most visible components of the project is the world’s largest Buc-ee’s Family Travel Center. This flagship location has already established Exit 407 as a must-stop destination for travelers and provides a strong commercial anchor for the broader development.
Another major feature is Smoky Gap, a 20-acre entertainment district currently under development. Smoky Gap is designed as a walkable, early-1900s-inspired streetscape with restaurants, retail shops, attractions, and gathering spaces. The district is intended to encourage guests to slow down, explore, and spend more time at The 407 rather than simply passing through.
Plans also include a Courtyard by Marriott hotel and additional dining and retail concepts, expanding The 407 into a multi-day destination rather than a single stop along the highway.
Cultural Storytelling and Immersive Experiences
A defining element of The 407 is its commitment to cultural storytelling. Through partnerships with internationally recognized entertainment designers, including Puy du Fou, the project will feature immersive experiences that bring Cherokee history and contributions to life.
These attractions are being developed to educate visitors through live performance, theatrical storytelling, and experiential design, offering a powerful way to share Cherokee history with a national and global audience. This approach allows The 407 to function not only as a commercial destination, but also as a platform for cultural education and representation.
Economic Impact and Shareholder Value
The 407 is structured to create long-term, sustainable economic benefits for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Revenues generated through land development, leases, partnerships, and visitor spending flow through Kituwah LLC and support broader tribal initiatives and investments.
By expanding into large-scale destination development, the tribe continues to diversify beyond traditional revenue streams and strengthen its economic resilience. The project also creates jobs, attracts regional and national partners, and opens doors for future tribal business opportunities tied to tourism, hospitality, and entertainment.
Looking Ahead
The 407 is a phased development, with additional attractions, entertainment venues, and lodging planned as the project evolves. Each phase is designed to build on existing momentum while remaining adaptable to market demand and visitor trends.
As construction progresses and new elements come to the forefront, The 407 stands as a forward-looking example of tribal economic development that balances growth, cultural integrity, and long-term community benefit.
For tribal members, community partners, and shareholders, The 407 represents more than a development project. It is a strategic investment in visibility, opportunity, and a future shaped by Cherokee leadership and vision.
Frequently Asked Questions About The 407 Project
1. What is The 407 project?
The 407, also known as Gateway to Adventure, is a large-scale destination development led by Kituwah LLC. Located at Exit 407 off Interstate 40 in Sevierville, Tennessee, the project brings together retail, entertainment, lodging, dining, and immersive cultural experiences. Learn more on the main overview page: The 407 Overview.
2. Why did the tribe choose Exit 407 for this development?
Exit 407 is one of the region’s busiest travel corridors and a major gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains. By building at this location, The 407 can serve travelers year-round while strengthening long-term economic opportunity. See the vision and site plan here: Project Vision.
3. How does The 407 benefit the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians?
The 407 is structured to support long-term economic growth through land development, leases, and visitor-driven revenue, helping strengthen long-term investment and community impact. For related updates, visit: News & Updates.
4. What types of businesses and attractions are planned at The 407?
The development includes major travel amenities, entertainment, dining, lodging, and a walkable district designed to encourage guests to stay longer. Explore features like Smoky Gap here: Smoky Gap, and see what’s planned next: What’s Coming.
5. How does The 407 incorporate Cherokee culture and history?
Cultural storytelling is an important part of the project, with immersive experiences designed to educate visitors while honoring Cherokee identity and history. See how the project approach is designed here: Culture & Experience.
6. Is The 407 a short-term project or a long-term investment?
The 407 is a phased, long-term development designed to grow responsibly over time. Track milestones and progress here: Project Timeline.
For the latest milestones and announcements, visit News & Updates or reach out through Contact.