Are you looking for a fun activity in Gatlinburg to add to your vacation itinerary? Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is one of the most popular attractions in town because there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Keep reading to find out the top reasons why you’ll love visiting this can’t-miss attraction in Gatlinburg, TN.
1. See Amazing Sea Creatures
The main reason to visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is to see all sorts of amazing sea creatures! When you enter the aquarium, you embark on an underwater journey through the rivers and oceans of the world. You’ll encounter both saltwater and freshwater animals such as sharks, eels, seahorses, piranhas, poison dart frogs, sea turtles, stingrays, crabs, and even playful penguins! There are thousands of colorful and awe-inspiring fish and other aquatic creatures to see up close as you explore the many exhibits in this multi-level aquarium.
2. Explore Hands-On Exhibits
Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hands-on exhibits that get you even closer to magnificent sea creatures! At Touch A-Ray Bay, you can reach your hand out to touch stingrays as they glide past. In the Discovery Center, dip your hands into the water to feel Moon Jellies! A helpful guide will teach you how to gently touch these unique animals. Dive under the sea at Shark Lagoon as you take the moving glidepath through an underwater tunnel to see sharks, sea turtles, sawfish, and other creatures swimming all around you. Finally, head to Penguin Playhouse and crawl through the tunnels to get nose-to-beak with playful penguin pals!
3. Learn Something New
Any curious mind will love the educational opportunities at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies! Each exhibit features fun facts about the sea creatures within so you can learn more about where they’re from, what they eat, etc. There are also dive shows and feedings where you can ask experts questions about various species. Attend the Ray Bay Dive Show to see divers feed and interact with stingrays while a caretaker offers information about the animals. Climb aboard the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure to see fascinating sharks and fish beneath your feet as a guide supplies interesting information about the creatures below. There are even behind-the-scenes tours you can sign up for to learn how the aquarium cares for its animals!
4. Enjoy Indoor Fun with the Whole Family
A great reason to visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is to escape from the weather when it is less than ideal. Whether it’s hot, cold, raining, or snowing, you can get out of the elements and enjoy hours of indoor fun at this expansive aquarium! There are multiple levels filled with thousands of creatures to discover, and you can stay as long as you like as you warm up, cool off, or wait out a storm. If your children need to burn off some energy, there’s a huge play area in the center where they can climb, slide, and explore!
More Places to Visit if You Love Animals
These are just some of the many reasons why you’ll love visiting Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg. This isn’t the only attraction where you can see animals up close, though! If you or someone in your family loves animals, make sure you also check out these must-visit attractions in the Smoky Mountains for animal lovers!
