3 Fun Things to Do in Downtown Gatlinburg

Visitors love our Gatlinburg cabins because they get the best of both worlds. They love to sit on the back porch and enjoy the peacefulness of the Smoky Mountain wilderness. At the same time, they are just a short drive from the great attractions in the city. Want to know more? Read over our list of 3 fun things to do in downtown Gatlinburg:

1. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is one of the best attractions in downtown Gatlinburg. It was voted “Best Aquarium in North America” by USA Today. Some of the immersive experiences include the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure. When you come aboard, you are separated by just 3 inches of glass from more than 8,500 aquatic animals representing over 75 different species. There is a little bit of everything, from graceful schools of fish to huge 12-foot sharks. You’ll learn all about these creatures as well as what goes into maintaining the aquarium. While you’re here, be sure to check out the Penguin Playhouse. It is regarded as one of the best penguin exhibits in the world. Crawl through the tunnels and watch these adorable creatures as they waddle around and play. You can also choose to attend the Penguin Painting Experience where you can watch them paint pictures using their feet. You can even touch the smooth back of a stingray at Touch a Ray Bay, or watch the aquarium’s staff in one of the Live Dive shows. Whatever you do, you will have a “jaw-some” time!

2. Gatlinburg Space Needle and Arcadia

If you love seeing the beautiful sights of the Great Smoky Mountains, come to the Gatlinburg Space Needle. Ride the elevator up to the observation deck and get a breathtaking 360° view of the Smokies. You can use the view finders for a closer look! When you come back down, you should check out Arcadia. Located at the base of the Gatlinburg Space Needle, it is the largest arcade in Gatlinburg. There will never be a dull moment with over 25,000 square feet of fun. When you are finished playing games, redeem your hard-earned tickets for a prize.

3. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

At Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, visitors will have the pleasure of seeing over 500 wonders. You will be especially fascinated when you see the collection of shrunken heads. This exhibit dates back to the 1920’s when Ripley acquired the first one from a trader in Panama. Since then, the collection has grown to include more than 100 authentic shrunken heads. Other unique sights to see here include a sculpture of Harry Potter’s Hogwarts made from over 6,000 matchsticks. You can also learn something new when you read the fun facts on the 10,518-pound granite Floating Kugel Ball! 

We hope you go and explore all these fun attractions in downtown Gatlinburg during your stay with us! If you are curious about more attractions in the area, check out our list of 4 fun things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge!