There are so many great attractions for families to visit during your Smoky Mountain vacation. Some of the best attractions are the Ripley’s attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. There are quite a few different Ripley’s attractions nearby, and it can be difficult to keep them all straight and know which ones you want to visit. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to tell you everything you need to know about each Ripley’s attraction so you can choose which ones to add to your vacation to-do list.
1. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
One of the most well-known Ripley’s attractions in Gatlinburg is Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. This attraction lets you get up close and personal with all sorts of marine life. You’ll get to walk through both freshwater and saltwater exhibits that feature fish and sea creatures from all around the world. Say hi to the penguins at Penguin Playhouse, glide beneath the sharks in Shark Lagoon, and interact with jellyfish at the Touch Jellies exhibit!
2. Ripley’s Super Fun Park
Ripley’s Super Fun Park in Pigeon Forge has so many fun activities! Race your family on go-karts around the multi-level track. Battle against one another on bumper boats and blast each other with water cannons. Challenge yourself and each other to a number of games in the 10,000-square-foot arcade. The youngest family members will enjoy taking a casual ride on the carousel. There’s something for everyone at this Ripley’s attraction in Pigeon Forge!
3. Ripley’s Mirror Maze
Put your navigation skills to the test at Ripley’s Mirror Maze. At this Ripley’s attraction, you’ll encounter a labyrinth of never-ending reflections and LED lights that will challenge you as you try to find your way out. You’ll be questioning every turn you take as you encounter endless mirror illusions in this giant puzzle of a maze. Do you have what it takes to find your way out?
4. Ripley’s Haunted Adventure
Surprises and scares lurk around every corner at Ripley’s Haunted Adventure. This is a Ripley’s attraction in Gatlinburg that doesn’t take up much space on the Parkway, but it’s an immersive experience that’s sure to thrill! As you tour through this haunted house, you’ll encounter both live actors and animatronics that will make you jump when you least expect it. If you want to get your adrenaline pumping, visit Ripley’s Haunted Adventure for a terrifyingly fun adventure.
5. Ripley’s 5-D Moving Theater
You’ve heard of 3-D, but Ripley’s 5-D Moving Theater takes you into the fifth dimension! Not only will you be watching a movie, but you’ll become fully immersed in it. This Gatlinburg attraction uses a motion simulator, surround sound, and 3-D effects to make you feel like you’ve become part of the movie. Choose between multiple action-packed films to experience amazing adventures without leaving the theater.
6. Ripley’s Super Fun Zone
Another great Ripley’s attraction in Gatlinburg that offers fun for the whole family is Ripley’s Super Fun Zone. Challenge your family to a game of laser tag to see who will come out on top. See who can stay under par on the retro-themed indoor mini-golf course. When the friendly competition is over, check out the retail store to shop for pop culture souvenirs and retro posters.
7. Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf
Challenge your family to a round of putt putt at Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf. This Ripley’s attraction in Gatlinburg has two 18-hole courses, so choose one or tackle both! These outdoor mini-golf courses are set in the Wild Frontier, which means you’ll encounter interactives and hazards that are Smoky Mountain-themed. See who will get the lowest score to be crowned King of the Wild Frontier!
8. Ripley’s Mountain Coaster
The whole family will enjoy Ripley’s Mountain Coaster! This is one of the newest Ripley’s attractions in Gatlinburg, and it brings lots of thrills! You’ll make your way downhill through twists and turns in a self-operated cart. You get to control how fast or slow you go. If you’re looking for a thrill, embrace the speed and zoom downhill as fast as you can. If you want to enjoy the views, you can coast at a slower pace.
9. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium is a museum attraction full of interactive exhibits. You’ll enjoy seeing unusual artifacts, pop culture memorabilia, and all sorts of oddities. The hands-on exhibits bring the unbelievable to life and immerse you in stories of amazing people and places. There are over 500 wonders that can be found in the Odditorium, including everything from shrunken heads to vampire killing kits to amazing works of art.
More Fun Attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
These Ripley’s attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer hours of family fun! If you’re looking for more fun things to do during your vacation, check out our Luxury Pass to see which attractions you can receive complimentary tickets for when you stay at our Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge cabins!
