You have so many options for fun things to do in Gatlinburg when you visit with your family. There are activities for animal lovers, thrill seekers, and many other interests. Check out these top 4 fun things to do in Gatlinburg with your family:
1. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
If you enjoy learning about animals, you have to visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. This Gatlinburg attraction has been voted the number 1 thing to do in Gatlinburg for many years. You’ll see hundreds of fish, sharks, crabs, and many other animals while you’re here. In addition to being able to tour the aquarium yourself, you can sign up for any of the extra activities they offer. Ride on a glass boat in Shark Lagoon to get up close to these great predators. Splash with the Stingrays allows you to get in the tank with an educator and get up close to the stingrays. There are many other camps and events you can sign up for with your kids you’ll all enjoy!
2. Gatlinburg Space Needle
When you’re looking for fun things to do in Gatlinburg, you can’t skip the Gatlinburg Space Needle. Standing at 400 feet tall, the Space Needle provides you with a panoramic view of the Great Smoky Mountains and downtown Gatlinburg. In the fall, you’ll have an incredible image of all the leaves different colors. Everyone enjoys seeing the Smokies this way. Plus, if you go up during the day and again at night, you’ll have completely different experiences!
3. Ober Gatlinburg
A great place to find fun things to do in Gatlinburg is Ober Gatlinburg! If you’re in downtown Gatlinburg, hop aboard the Aerial Tramway and take a scenic ride to the top of the mountain. Throughout each season, there are unique activities you can do at Ober. During the colder months, man-made snow is put onto the side of a mountain so tourists can ski, snow tube, and snowboard. During the summer, there’s an entire outdoor complex with summer tubing, a rock wall, and carnival rides kids will love. At any time of the year, you can ice skate, race on ice bumper cars, and ride the mountain coaster. You have so many fun things you can do at Ober Gatlinburg!
4. Anakeesta
If you’re looking for a great place to take your family for all-day fun, you have to go to Anakeesta. To get up the mountain, you can ride a chondola or a jeep. Once you’re at the top, you’ll make your way into Firefly Village, where you’ll find all kinds of retail shops you can explore. There are also quite a few snack eateries and restaurants where you can get a pick me up or a whole meal. Play with each other by checking out the Treetop Skywalk, the playground, riding the mountain coaster, or going ziplining. If you’d rather relax in this beautiful area in the mountains, you can take a walk through the Vista Gardens or Memorial Forest Walk. There are plenty of spots where you can stop and take in the mountain views. Everyone will love Anakeesta.
You have so many fun things to do in Gatlinburg! Wondering what else you should do while you’re staying with us? Check out these other fun Gatlinburg attractions!
