Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
#6 in Best Things To Do in Pigeon Forge
All Things To Do
Key Info
88 River Rd.
Price & Hours
$39.99 for adults; $24.99 for kids 6-11; $9.99 for children 2-5
Mon-Thurs 9 a.m.-9 p.m. | Fri-Sun 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
Details
Zoos and Aquariums
Time to Spend: 1 to 2 hours
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
Attraction Introduction:
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is one of the most popular family attractions in the area. This world-class aquarium is home to over 10,000 sea creatures from around the world, offering an immersive underwater experience. Visitors can explore various habitat zones, including a tropical rainforest, coral reef, and shark lagoon. The highlight of the aquarium is the 340-foot underwater tunnel where guests can observe sharks, stingrays, and other marine life swim overhead.
Visiting Tips:
- Purchase Tickets in Advance: To avoid long lines, buy your tickets online ahead of time.
- Best Time to Visit: The aquarium tends to be less crowded early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- Interactive Experiences: Don't miss the Penguin Playhouse and the interactive Touch-A-Ray Bay where you can gently touch stingrays.
- Shows and Dives: Check the daily schedule for dive shows, which provide an educational look at the marine life.
Precautions:
- Plan for Crowds: This is a popular destination, so plan for some crowd navigation especially during peak seasons.
- Keep an Eye on Children: While the aquarium is family-friendly, it can be easy to get separated from your group, so keep an eye on young ones.
- Watch the Time: Some exhibits may close earlier than the rest of the aquarium, so allocate enough time to see everything.
- Accessibility: The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, but it’s a good idea to call ahead if special assistance is required.