Nothing is better than a walk through a museum– whether you’re avoiding the rain or snow, or simply need a break in the air conditioning! Gatlinburg is home to a wonderful collection of museums dedicated to everything from salt and pepper shakers to famous cars. Unlike the stodgy old museums you may have been dragged to as a kid, these attractions are filled with hands-on exhibits and lots of fun features. To help you make the most of your next getaway, we have put together a guide to the best museums in Gatlinburg.
1. Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a quirky museum filled with bizarre artifacts from around the globe. True to the Ripley’s attractions in Gatlinburg brand, the Odditorium features wonderfully strange items, like shrunken heads, vampire killing kits, and medieval torture devices. Guests will also enjoy a number of memorable interactive exhibits, including a shadow dancing room, a giant game of operation, a two-way mirror, and a tunnel that feels like it is spinning!
2. Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is definitely worth a visit during your next vacation in Gatlinburg. For only $3, you can see over 20,000 sets of whimsically designed salt and pepper shakers, and children 12 and under are free! The museum’s shakers are from all around the world and every decade. The remarkable collection includes shakers shaped like Egyptian pharaohs, U.S. Presidents, owls, carrots, eggs, cartoon characters, palm trees, and just about anything else you can think of. Best of all, your admission fee can be applied to any set of salt and pepper shakers for sale in the gift shop!
3. Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts
Another unique place to visit in downtown Gatlinburg is a bit of a hidden gem! The Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts is an incredible museum and art gallery featuring local artisans, as well as events and workshops. Their permanent collection includes artwork, sculptures, and many other forms of mixed media. You’ll also find rotating exhibits and temporary displays, allowing you to enjoy a few quiet moments of reflection during your busy vacation schedule.
4. Hollywood Star Cars Museum
The Hollywood Star Cars Museum is a can’t-miss stop for TV and movie buffs. Visitors will have the chance to see some of the most famous vehicles to ever grace the screen, including the DeLorean from Back to the Future, the Jalopy from The Beverly Hillbillies, two different Batmobiles (the original 1966 Batman and the 1992 Batman Returns), and cars from The Fast and the Furious franchise. It’s easy to see why Hollywood Star Cars is one of the most popular museums in Gatlinburg!
5. Speedwerkz
Another car-themed museum you won’t want to miss is Speedwerkz Exotic Car Experience. It’s not your typical museum with displays behind plexiglass– you can actually get up close and personal with the incredible displays. You’ll be awestruck by their collection, from Lamborghini and McLaren to Bugatti, Porsche, and Ferrari! Plus, you can even sit in one of the cars and experience the thrills of driving one through their state-of-the-art racing simulators!
Visiting any of these amazing museums in Gatlinburg will be sure to add fun and entertainment to your Smoky Mountain vacation. Take a look at our Gatlinburg coupons to save money on tickets to Hollywood Star Cars, Ripley’s attractions, and so many more fun things to do in the Smokies!
