By Amy Jorgensen
Gatlinburg is located in Tennessee near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The small city is packed with attractions that can be enjoyed by children of all ages. From aquariums to aerial trams and everything in between, families will find some great ways to enjoy their time in the city.
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
This aquarium includes more than 10,000 fish on display in several distinct areas, including a Tropical Rain Forest, Gallery of the Seas and the Discovery Center. A moving walkway through a shark tunnel and opportunities to touch stingrays make the aquarium a popular choice for kids.
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
On the Parkway
at Traffic Light #5
Tel (888) 240-1358
ripleysgatlinburg.com
Old Gatlinburg Golf & Games
Gatlinburg includes many miniature golf courses. Some of the most popular are the three available at the Old Gatlinburg Golf & Games. One unique course is the black light course. You play in the dark illuminated by the glow-in-the-dark decorations. The two outdoor courses are some of the most challenging in this part of Tennessee.
Old Gatlinburg Golf & Games
Reagan Terrace Mall, adjacent to Fort Fun
Tel (865) 430-GOLF
smokymountainfun.com
Ripley's Moving Theater
This theater shows thrilling movies and is designed with moving seats to make riders feel as if they are part of the experience. Different shows are shown periodically. Several similar attractions can be found in Pigeon Forge. A safe thrill for little ones who may be scared by amusement park rides.
Ripley's Moving Theater
On the Parkway
at Traffic Light #8
Tel (865) 436-9763
ripleysgatlinburg.com
Ober Gatlinburg
Take the family on an aerial tram 2,700 feet above the city to the top of Mount Harrison for a stunning view of the mountains. The trams leave the station every 20 minutes. Atop the mountain, enjoy the amusement park and the animal exhibits, including black bears and a new home for nocturnal animals native to the mountains. Ice skating and souvenir shopping are also available. During the winter season (usually November through March), skiing and other snow sports attract visitors. Travelers who don't want to take the tram can also drive to the top of Mount Harrison.
Ober Gatlinburg
1001 Parkway near Traffic light #9 (tram)
Ski Mountain Road at Traffic Light #10 (non-tram)
Tel (865) 436-5423
obergatlinburg.com
The Marvelous Mirror Maze
A state-of-the-art version of the classic carnival attraction, the Ripley's maze covers 2,000 square feet and provides a unique experience each time visitors go in. The maze is attached to the Ripley's Candy Factory.
The Marvelous Mirror Maze & Ripley's Candy Factory
On the Parkway
Light #6
Tel (865) 430-1834
ripleys-gatlinburg.com
About the Author:
Amy Jorgensen is a freelance writer and college instructor from Indiana. In addition to freelancing, she has also taught writing, public speaking, business communication and customer service courses at two different colleges. Jorgensen holds a Bachelor of Science in English and a Master of Liberal Studies degree.
