Travel Gatlinburg – Theme Parks and Attractions
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Are you looking for an escape? Something special to do with your family that will create lasting memories and bring everyone together? Look no further than Gatlinburg, Tennessee – the perfect place for a weekend full of fun activities! From outdoor adventure parks to museums and more, there’s something here that everyone in the family can enjoy. So pack up the car and let’s explore some amazing family activities Gatlinburg has to offer!
Gatlinburg is known for its wide array of attractions, but what really stands out are its unique family-friendly experiences. There are plenty of ways to keep busy without ever leaving town; from ziplining through the Smoky Mountains to holding hands on a stroll down Riverwalk – it’s all here waiting for you! And if you’re feeling brave, why not try one of their thrilling amusement park rides or head into downtown and check out Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum?
No matter how adventurous your family might be, Gatlinburg has something for everyone. Take a break from reality and come explore this beautiful city! With so much variety available at your fingertips, it won’t take long before every member of your crew finds something they love about this mountain town. Get ready to make unforgettable memories as we dive deeper into discovering awesome family activities in Gatlinburg!
The Kia Sedona has a ton of cool features that make road trips a lot easier for the driver too. The navigation system is super easy to use and has a big, easy to read screen. Maybe one of the coolest features is the cruise control. It’s not your normal cruise control. It can sense how far you are from the car in front of you and if you get too close (you can change how close it gets) it automatically slows down for you. Then when the car in front of you is gone, it goes back to your set speed! No more having to reset your cruise control if you get into a little traffic! It also has blind spot warning so if a car is your blind spot and you turn on your blinker, it gives you a warning. Between the heated and cooled seats, XM radio and all the other bell and whistles, the Kia Sedona was a joy to drive.
Attractions For The Whole Family
Are you looking to make some lasting family memories on your next vacation? Then Gatlinburg, Tennessee is the perfect place for a family getaway. From outdoor activities and attractions that everyone can enjoy together, there’s something here to appeal to every member of the family. With so many options available, it’s easy to find a variety of fun and exciting things to do in Gatlinburg – no matter what kind of family vacation you’re planning!
When it comes to finding family-friendly activities in Gatlinburg, look no further than the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here, families can explore miles of trails with stunning mountain views or take a scenic drive along one of its beautiful byways. Along the way, don’t forget to stop at popular spots like Cades Cove or Clingmans Dome – two must-see destinations where kids will love discovering all kinds of wildlife and learning more about nature.
If your family is looking for adventure beyond just hiking and sightseeing, try visiting some of Gatlinburg’s most well known attractions such as Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies or Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park. Both offer unique experiences that are sure to create lifelong memories for your whole clan! Whether you choose an adrenaline rush from white water rafting down the rapids or a peaceful day spent fishing at one of our local streams – whatever activity you choose is sure to be filled with plenty of laughs and quality time spent together as a family.
Outdoor Activities
Leaving the hustle and bustle of Gatlinburg amusement parks behind, it’s time to explore some outdoor activities! For those looking for a bit of adventure in the beautiful Smoky Mountains, Cades Cove is an excellent option. Whether you want to go on a scenic drive loop or take a peaceful hike through nature, this area has something for everyone. Plus there are plenty of wildlife sightings along with historic buildings from days gone by.
The Wild Bear Falls Water Park offers fun for the whole family from its wild slides to its relaxing lazy river. Perfect for cooling off after exploring the trails around town! Families can also enjoy fishing at one of many spots nearby such as Pigeon River, Little River and The Great Smoky Mountain National Park where you’ll find trout and bass galore.
For hikers, Gatlinburg Trail provides miles of options ranging from easy strolls through wooded areas up to strenuous climbs that lead up to mountaintop views. And if you’re feeling brave enough, why not try zip-lining? There are several companies offering canopy tours which provide thrilling experiences while giving visitors a bird’s eye view of the incredible scenery below them.
So whether you prefer taking part in adrenaline-filled adventures or simply spending time in nature’s beauty, make sure you check out these great outdoor activities:
1. Take a scenic drive around Cades Cove
2. Spend some time splashing about at Wild Bear Falls Water Park
3. Go on an invigorating hike on Gatlinburg Trail
With so much available outdoors – from biking trails to rock climbing walls – there truly is something for every member of your family when visiting Gatlinburg!
One of our most favorite things that we did is white water rafting with the NOC. We had originally signed up for the Pigeon River Rafting: Lower Pigeon Gorge. Which is essentially a float trip. No rapids, nothing strenuous. When we got there our guide pulled us aside and explained exactly what each trip entailed and answered all our questions. Afterwards we decided to go on the Upper Pigeon Gorge. It has very mild rapids and even with the health limitations of my husband it was easy for him to do. We had 2 teenage girls, my teenage son, a husband with health issues and me. We were able to do the rapids easily. I’m so glad our guide took the time to explain everything to us. The scenery on the river is amazing. It was raining for some of our trip and the rain really doesn’t affect your trip. So don’t worry about the weather and just enjoy the beautiful river. Our guide was awesome and after watching all of the other rafts from other groups in front of us I knew we had made the right decision to go with NOC. Our guide really knew the river and we got to do some pretty cool tricks that the other rafters quickly tried to copy.
Amusement Parks And Arcades
Gatlinburg offers plenty of amusement parks and arcades for family activities. Anakeesta is a one-stop spot with over 25 attractions, including zip lines, a treetop canopy walk, an outdoor interactive play structure, mini golf, and more. The ultimate experience comes in the form of their dueling ziplines that soar you through the trees at speeds up to 30 mph! There’s also Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park which features traditional rides like a carousel and ferris wheel as well as ski lifts and alpine slides – all with beautiful views of Mt. LeConte. Strike Zone Entertainment Center provides fun for everyone with laser tag, arcade games, bumper cars, bowling lanes, ropes course, pool tables and much more. With so many options for exciting entertainment in Gatlinburg your family can enjoy hours of pure fun! So grab your kids and head out for some quality time in this Smoky Mountain playground – there’s something here sure to delight every member of the family!
If you love theme parks then you definitely want to check out Dollywood. Dollywood isn’t just a theme park but an experience. It’s owned by Dolly Parton and really showcases what the Smokey Mountains are all about. There are rides for all ages and plenty of thrills for the adventurous person. I love the fact that they have misters all around the park to keep you cool on those hot days.
Oh my cow the food is amazing. Just thinking about it is making me hungry. You can stop many of the indoor establishments like the bakery which smells amazing but I urge you to really check out the outside vendors. You will see many of them cooking on large skillets or big cast iron pans, which kinda makes me think of camping. We got a chance to try the Bacon, Ranch & Cheese Tator Swirls which are to die for.
Make sure you check out all the scenery like pottery making, lot’s of shows and more. I fell in love with this beautiful church at the park.
They also have an amazing Eagle Sanctuary where you can see the majestic Bald Eagles as well as many other large bird species. They also have a water park where we hoped to have visited but the Smokey Mountain Rain just didn’t give us the chance so we hope to check that out next time. Check their website for double park savings.
Local Shows And Entertainment
Escape the everyday grind and experience Gatlinburg TN like you never have before. From live music, to ice skating in the park, there’s something for everyone in this mountain town.
For a truly unique evening out, check out one of the local shows or musicals that are held at various theaters throughout the area. Live performances will keep you enthralled as stories unfold before your eyes with singing and comedy that rivals professional productions. For some lighthearted fun, take part in an interactive show where audience members can become actors themselves!
Another popular activity is ice-skating! With several rinks open year round, it’s easy to get a thrill from zipping around on the ice – whether you’re a novice or experienced skater. There’s also plenty of outdoor activities such as snow tubing and skiing available during winter months for those looking for an adrenaline rush.
No matter what type of entertainment experience you seek, rest assured that Gatlinburg TN has something special waiting just for you. From world-class theatrical presentations to leisurely strolls through nature trails; be sure to explore all that this beautiful city has to offer – both day and night!
Nature Centers And Parks
For those seeking a more natural experience, Gatlinburg offers plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Nature centers and parks in the area provide excellent havens for outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing, with many offering guided tours or educational programs.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular nature spots near Gatlinburg. The park spans across five states and covers over 800 square miles, making it the largest protected land area east of the Mississippi River. Visitors can take part in activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, rafting, camping, horseback riding and bird watching while enjoying breathtaking views of tall mountains and lush valleys. For an even closer look at local wildlife, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies allows visitors to watch Black Bears roam freely through their habitat from an enclosed observation deck.
Gatlinburg provides countless ways to get back to nature both near and far away from town. Whether you choose to stay close by exploring nearby trails or venture into the national park for a deeper adventure, you’re sure to find something that will capture your imagination!
If you’re the curious type, you should check out the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Gatlinburg, Tennessee. They have 8 different attractions and they have a U-Pick ‘em combo that will help you save money. Our favorite was the Ripley’s Aquarium. When we drove up I think we were all amazed at how big it was. You enter in the aquarium on the 2nd floor. They have exhibits that wind their way down to a more hands on experience. They have an area where you can touch horseshoe crabs! They have an attendant there that explains the right way to touch them so don’t worry. They also had an area where you could touch sting rays, but we weren’t able to touch any as they didn’t come close enough for us to touch them. Another “hands on” exhibit is where you can stick your hand in a tank with feeder fish in it. The fish will come up and actually “clean” your hand for you. Don’t worry, it just feels like someone is tickling your hand! There is one HUGE tank in the middle of the building with all kinds of fish swimming around. The cool part is they have a moving sidewalk that goes UNDER the aquarium so you a unique view with sharks swimming around you! This place is pretty big so make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to go through.
My husband loves the Odditorium. It’s the only place in Gatlinburg where you’ll find shrunken heads, a 12ft tall Transformer sculpture made of scrap car parts, an authentic vampire killing kit, one-of-a-kind artwork, tons of hands-on interactives, and a wicked spinning vortex tunnel! I found it very interesting to see different cultures from around the world as well.
It’s been a long time since I went putt-putting. Ripley’s has 2 mini golf courses that are a ton of fun. I went in expecting to be in last place but ended up in getting first place at the Davy Crockett course and my daughter actually won a free game! These were the only ones we go to visit this trip except for the mirror maze which we were a little disappointed in. We did the Ripley’s maze in TX which was so much fun and this was nothing like it and we probably would not do it again.
Our next adventure took us to somewhere I never thought I would find myself. Flyaway Indoor Skydiving in Pigeon Forge. Flyaway Indoor Skydiving can give you the experience of flying without the fear of jumping from a plane or falling out of the sky. Let’s just say I was so scared to do this but I decided to face my fears. When you get there, you sit through a safety video to address important information on what you will be experiencing. You then suit up with all the necessary gear as you’re led into the room. Our instructor was amazing. Indoor sky diving is A LOT harder than you think but our instructor was so patient and really worked with us to make sure we had a great experience. It takes some practice to position your arms and legs just right and learn how to make yourself go forwards and backwards if you want. I recommend going more than once to really get to experience it so that you can practice more. The more you practice the better you get. I wouldn’t recommend anyone with back issues to try this.
Shopping And Dining Experiences
Gatlinburg is bursting with shopping and dining experiences that will excite anyone looking to explore the area. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or just want a snack, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Here are four great places to start your Gatlinburg adventure:
1. The Gift Shop: This charming shop has all kinds of mementos from your trip – from t-shirts and hats to framed prints and even stuffed animals!
2. Sweet Treats: Stop by one of the many candy shops throughout town if you’re craving some sugary goodness. You can find everything from homemade fudge to gummy bears here!
3. Hot Dogs: If you’re feeling peckish, grab an iconic hot dog at one of the local restaurants. It’s sure to hit the spot!
4. Dining Experiences: There are countless eateries around town offering delicious meals, ranging from casual cafés to high-end eateries serving up exquisite fare.
No matter what activity you choose, Gatlinburg is full of endless possibilities when it comes to indulging in its unique culture and flavors. From exploring gift shops and sampling sweet treats to enjoying a classic hot dog or savoring fine cuisine, don’t miss out on all that this wonderful city has to offer!
Waterparks And Pools
Gatlinburg is known for its abundance of family-friendly activities, and waterparks and pools are no exception. Whether you’re looking to cool off after a day of adventure or just relax in the sun, there’s something here for everyone.
A popular spot among families is Wild Bear Falls Waterpark at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa. This impressive indoor/outdoor pool complex features an interactive play area, waterslides and even an underwater tunnel! It’s perfect for younger kids who may not be interested in braving some of Gatlinburg’s wilder attractions like Rowdy Bear Mountain Coaster.
For those wanting more traditional swimming experiences, there’re plenty of outdoor pools throughout town with stunning views of the mountainside – including one located right on Great Smoky Mountains National Park land! Enjoying a dip in these gorgeous mountain lakes and streams can make any summer afternoon feel luxurious.
No matter what kind of aquatic experience your family desires, Gatlinburg has it all – from splashy fun at Wild Bear Falls Waterpark to tranquil relaxation in nature’s own backyard.
Guided Tours
Moving on from the thrills and excitement of waterparks and pools, guided tours offer a more serene way to explore Gatlinburg. From wildlife encounters to aerial tramways, there is much that can be experienced with the help of an expert guide.
First up is the incredible Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tour. With breathtaking views out over the rolling hills, this tour begins in Gatlinburg before delving into one of America’s most beloved parks. Expert guides will take you through woodlands full of wildflowers, streams filled with fish, and mountain meadows teeming with wildlife. There are also plenty of opportunities to stop at points of interest like Clingman’s Dome along the way too!
Another great option for guided exploration is Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway. Offering unparalleled views across Tennessee’s mountains, this cable car ride takes passengers soaring 2 miles above sea level – offering stunning vistas as far as the eye can see. Once arriving at the top station visitors can enjoy fun activities such as skiing or snowboarding during winter months, alpine slides all summer long, and even try their hand at mini golf if they wish.
Guided tours provide a unique opportunity to experience some incredible places around Gatlinburg – from national parks to mountaintop attractions – these excursions have something for everyone looking for an adventure in East Tennessee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Cost Of Admission For Family Activities In Gatlinburg?
Planning a family vacation can be daunting, but there are plenty of activities that offer something for everyone in Gatlinburg. Take the aquarium, for example; families have the chance to explore an underwater world with sea turtles and stingrays from just $39 per person. It’s not only educational, but also fun and affordable too!
But what about other family activities? Many attractions in Gatlinburg offer admission discounts when you buy tickets as a group. For instance, Ober Ski Mountain has special rates available for larger parties so make sure to check out their website before booking your trip. Additionally, some of the area’s most popular zipline companies provide discounted pricing for groups, making it easy to plan exciting adventures without breaking the bank.
There is also no shortage of free things to do in Gatlinburg like hiking trails and nature walks at Great Smoky Mountains National Park or simply taking in all the beauty this region has to offer along its scenic roads. There really is something here for every budget and interest level – so don’t let cost get in the way of having a great time with your loved ones!
Are There Any Age Restrictions For Family Activities In Gatlinburg?
Are there any age restrictions for family activities? That’s a great question to ask before planning out your next outing. After all, you don’t want to find yourself in an awkward situation where the kids can’t join in on the fun.
Fortunately, most of Gatlinburg’s family-friendly attractions are open to guests of all ages. Whether it’s exploring a cave or going down a zip line, everyone is welcome to participate and have some incredible memories together.
However, not every activity has an “all ages” policy. Some require participants to be above a certain age due to safety concerns or other factors. For example, many amusement parks enforce height and weight requirements for their rides that may exclude younger children from participating. It’s always best to double check the website or call ahead if you’re unsure about whether or not your whole family will be able to take part in something specific.
No matter what kind of adventure you choose, with just a bit of research beforehand you can make sure each member of your group gets the chance to enjoy everything Gatlinburg has to offer!
Are There Any Safety Measures In Place To Protect Visitors From Potential Hazards?
When visiting a new place, safety is always top of mind. This rings especially true for family activities in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Whether you are planning your first trip or returning after years away, it is important to consider what measures may be in place to protect visitors from potential hazards.
Take the case of Kelly and her two children who were heading out on an adventure together. After researching their options online, they decided that a guided horseback ride through the Great Smoky Mountains was going to be the highlight of their vacation. Before booking though, Kelly wanted to make sure that there were safety measures in place for both riders and horses alike:
– Are all guides regularly trained on proper riding techniques?
– Is there a minimum age requirement and weight limit for each rider?
– Does each horse have routine veterinary checkups?
– What sort of emergency protocols are available if something should go wrong?
These questions gave Kelly peace of mind knowing that she had done everything possible to ensure everyone’s well-being during their outing. She found that not only did the company provide answers to each question but also provided additional information about how they prioritize safety when it comes to providing services for families like hers. With this knowledge in hand, she felt confident moving forward with making reservations for her group’s adventure!
The city of Gatlinburg offers many attractions for people looking for fun and memorable experiences. To ensure these moments remain safe and enjoyable, it is wise to research any safeguards that may be implemented before taking part in family activities within the area – because no one wants to worry while trying to relax and explore! Taking steps such as asking companies specific questions can help put your mind at ease so you can focus on creating memories instead.
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Gatlinburg For Family Activities?
Gatlinburg is a popular destination for family activities, and one of the most important questions to consider when planning your trip is what time of year is best for visiting. With its mild climate and plenty of attractions, there’s no bad time to visit Gatlinburg if you’re looking for fun-filled experiences with your family.
In springtime, the temperatures are warm enough to get out and explore nature safely without feeling too hot or uncomfortable. You can take advantage of all that Gatlinburg has to offer from biking trails and waterfalls to ziplining adventures and amusement parks. Plus, many seasonal events like Dollywood’s Festival of Nations occur in springtime!
Summer brings even more possibilities for outdoor recreation as the weather warms up further. It’s an ideal season for swimming, boating on the lake, horseback riding among other activities. Your kids will also love checking out Ripley’s Aquarium where they can view exotic sea creatures while staying cool indoors.
Overall, visitors have access to year-round attractions during their stay in Gatlinburg regardless of which season it may be. Whether you plan ahead or go spontaneously, you’ll find something exciting and unique every time around for unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
Are There Any Discounts Available For Family Activities In Gatlinburg?
Are there any discounts available for family activities? This is a question that many families are asking as they plan their vacation. With so much to see and do, it can be an expensive endeavor, but luckily there are ways to save money and make the most of your stay in Gatlinburg!
When you’re looking for deals on exciting attractions, keep an eye out for special offers from local businesses. Many offer discounts when you buy tickets online or bundle multiple activities into one package. You may also find coupons or promotional codes from third-party websites like Groupon or LivingSocial. Additionally, some hotels include free admission to nearby attractions with certain packages, giving you even more bang for your buck.
A great way to get around town while saving money is by taking advantage of public transportation. The city’s bus system connects all parts of Gatlinburg and has several stops near popular attractions. There are also shuttle services available if you want door-to-door service to specific destinations. And don’t forget about walking — exploring downtown on foot gives you plenty of opportunities to stumble upon hidden gems without spending a dime!
No matter how big or small your budget is, there’s something fun waiting for every traveler in this beautiful mountain destination. Whether you’re hoping to explore the outdoors or have some relaxing time indoors with loved ones, Gatlinburg has something just right for everyone – and usually at a price that won’t break the bank!
Conclusion
Visiting Gatlinburg with your family is a wonderful way to connect and create lasting memories. Whether it’s exploring the mountainside, Pigeon Forge, Downtown Gatlinburg or taking part in one of the many activities available, there are fun things for everyone. Besides being affordable (one of the best things on my list), safe, and welcoming all year round, Gatlinburg also offers discounts to make these experiences even more enjoyable. Definitely a great place for the entire family!
The only thing missing from this perfect picture are you and your loved ones! Picture yourselves walking hand-in-hand down a mountain path, talking about what an amazing time you’re having together. It’s like stepping into a postcard – each moment brimming with potential for laughter, joy and fun! The best part of a vacation is the time you spend together.
Gatlinburg has so much to offer families looking for quality time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Don’t let another day pass without experiencing all that this beautiful place has to offer – take advantage of its treasures today! As we say goodbye to Gatlinburg, our hearts will remain filled with happy memories as if they were precious stones tucked away in our pockets; ready to be taken out whenever we need them most.
I have been saving this post because Fall break is coming soon and this is the perfect time to book your vacation now for your family!
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