Gatlinburg is one of the top places families love to come on vacation! From theme parks to mini-golf, there are so many activities in Gatlinburg that are great for kids and great for the whole family. Check out 4 of the best things to do in Gatlinburg for kids:
1. Ripley’s Aquarium
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is voted the best aquarium in the country! The aquarium is full of unique experiences and exhibits that kids love. Travel through an underwater tunnel and get to see sharks, stingrays, snappers and more swimming above you, or head to the Discovery Center for hands-on learning, puzzles and the chance to touch a jellyfish! You can also participate in special experiences like the Penguin Encounter, in which you can pet a penguin and get a souvenir photo with your new friend, or Splash with the Stingrays, in which you can get up-close-and-personal with the stingrays! And don’t forget to stop by the gift shop before you leave to get a souvenir to remind you of what a great time you had.
Click here to get a discount on Ripley’s Aquarium tickets.
2. Dollywood
Dollywood is one of the top theme parks in the country, and one of the top things to do in Gatlinburg for kids! With more than 40 rides, 15 shows and Southern-style dining, families love bringing their kids to Dollywood when they visit Gatlinburg. Try kid-friendly rides like Amazing Flying Elephants, in which kids climb into an elephant and soar around for an amazing adventure. Parents can ride along! Another kid-friendly ride is the Scrambler, in which you’ll shuffle around in different directions and twist and shout. Kids also love playing in the Firehouse Fun Yard, which includes pop-jet water features, a structure where they can slide and play, a block table and a chalkboard coloring wall! There’s a whole day of family fun to be had at Dollywood!
3. Gatlinburg Space Needle
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is one of the top places to go to see incredible views of Gatlinburg. It’s a popular family attraction! You’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains from the 407-foot observation tower. Also on-site is Arcadia, which is a 25,000 square-foot playground that children love! The arcade has all the latest arcade and redemption games, along with the area’s largest redemption center. Spend the afternoon taking in the beautiful sights before taking the kids to the arcade and letting them win amazing prizes!
4. Mini-golf
You can never go wrong with a fun game of mini-golf. Gatlinburg has numerous mini-golf courses for kids and parents to enjoy. One of the most popular mini-golf courses is Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf , which has two different courses for 36 holes of family fun! Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf has animated characters stationed around the courses, such as bears, cows, chipmunks and more. Kids will love seeing all the animals while trying to win some mini-golf! Another popular mini-golf course in Gatlinburg is Treasure Quest Miniature Golf, which is an exciting indoor mini-golf course with an ancient jungle theme that kids will enjoy.
There are so many exciting attractions in Gatlinburg that kids will love! Check out all the amazing things to do in Gatlinburg and start planning your family vacation.
