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Firefly Village at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg

4 Kid Friendly Things to Do in Gatlinburg You Have to Try

We know that you want your kids to have a blast while you are on vacation. With so many fun things to do in Gatlinburg, no one will be bored! No matter what interests you and your kids, you’re sure to find something that will make everyone happy. Read our list of 4 kid friendly things to do in Gatlinburg you have to try while you’re on vacation!

1. Ripley’s Aquarium

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg Everyone loves learning about unique types of animals! Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a great kid friendly thing to do in Gatlinburg. As you walk inside, you will walk through the rainforest where poisonous tree frogs and piranhas live. From the rainforest you’ll find yourself surrounded by unique looking creatures and get to learn all about them. Then you’ll see Shark Lagoon, where everyone can ride on a conveyor belt through a tunnel under a giant tank full of sharks, tarpons, eels, and Sally the sea turtle. In the discovery center, kids can get hands-on with horseshoe crabs and manta rays at Touch a Ray Bay. If cute and cuddly is what you prefer, you should check out the Penguin Playhouse before you walk out through the gift shop.

2. Anakeesta

Whimsy and wonder await you at Anakeesta! The whole family will ride to the top of the mountain on a Chondola. You’ll see amazing views of Mount LeConte, find all kind of quaint shops, and find plenty of places for snacks and meals. For a unique nature walk, you can go on the 16 bridge Tree Canopy Walk. The kids will love the Treehouse Village playground where they can run around and play for hours. There’s also botanical gardens where you can learn about various plants and flowers. If your family likes a little adventure, you can also check out the ziplines that hang 125 feet over the ground.

3. Space Needle

Gatlinburg Space Needle with SkyLiftIf you want a spectacular view, your family should definitely head over to the Gatlinburg Space Needle. To get to the top of the 407-foot attraction, you’ll ride in a glass elevator. The Space Needle has a 360-degree observation deck that enables guests to look over downtown Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountain National Park to take in amazing views. Even at night, you’ll be amazed by all the lights and stars. Once you’re done on the observation deck, you can come back down the elevator and have fun at the amusement center, which includes an arcade, escape game, and restaurants.

4. Mini Golf

Of all the things to do in Gatlinburg, mini golf is definitely one of the most fun. It’s a great activity during the spring, summer, and fall. Each course has unique features and most have different courses to choose from. For an Appalachian theme with animals, check out Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini Golf course. If it ends up raining but you still want to go mini golfing, Gatlin’s Mini Golf indoor blacklight course is perfect. When the weather is nice, Gatlin’s also has two outdoor courses on the side of a hill that are a ton of fun to play!

Going on vacation provides great quality time with your whole family. Your kids will have fun when you try all these things to do in Gatlinburg! Start planning your vacation today, and book a cabin with us!