Things to Do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

An award-winning aquarium in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers interactive experiences and exhibits that showcase thousands of exotic sea creatures that call this aquarium home. Touch stingrays, glide along a 340-foot moving path beneath a sea of sharks, encounter playful penguins in their indoor/outdoor habitat, and much more! Details

Fun and adventure await at Dolly Parton's Stampede! This Pigeon Forge dinner show pairs a delicious meal with a thrilling show featuring jaw-dropping horse-riding stunts, aerial acts, spectacular music, special effects, and more. The Dolly Parton Stampede Pigeon Forge attraction will leave you and your family with memories to hold for a lifetime. Details

Experience the thrilling Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, featuring swashbuckling stunts, acrobatics, and live animals. Enjoy a four-course feast while cheering on the Crimson and Sapphire pirate crews in a battle for treasure in a gigantic indoor pirate ship. This high-energy dinner show in Pigeon Forge delivers unforgettable entertainment for the whole family. Details

Experience Anakeesta Gatlinburg! This outdoor adventure theme park combines nature, thrills and wonder for a one-of-a-kind journey. Ride the chair lift, race on a zip line (additional), see epic mountain views atop AnaVista Tower at sunset, or brave the treetop skywalk—the choice is yours! Plus, don’t miss the quaint shops, restaurants, and more. Details

Step into a candy-coated wonderland at Crave Golf Club in Pigeon Forge, where two 19-hole courses—one indoor, one rooftop—await your putting prowess. Navigate through whimsical, sugar-themed landscapes, tackle mini-bowling, and test your wits in immersive escape rooms. Details

Get ready to jump, climb, swing, and soar at TopJump Trampoline & Extreme Arena in Pigeon Forge, TN. On top of traditional trampoline park activities such as open jump and dodgeball, TopJump Trampoline & Extreme Arena offers a climbing adventure, a massive video arcade, and a candy store. Designed for children and their families in mind, the facility also includes free WiFi and a comfortable viewing area for parents. Details

Discover the history of American crime at Alcatraz East Crime Museum in Pigeon Forge — if you dare! This expansive museum features artifacts from notorious crimes, criminals, and prisons such as Alcatraz. Featuring five hands-on galleries, guests can learn about everything from crime scene investigation to crime in pop culture. From mugshots to forensic science, this crime museum has it all. Details

A 200-foot observation wheel featuring stunning mountain views, The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is the centerpiece of The Island entertainment district in Pigeon Forge. The wheel stands as one of the tallest attractions in the Southeast, featuring 42 glass-enclosed gondolas with seating for up to 8 people at a time. During the evenings, riders can enjoy a mesmerizing 24,000 LED-light show. Details

Raft the Pigeon River with Nantahala Outdoor Center! The Upper Pigeon features Class III-IV white water rapids along the Great Smoky Mountains National Park border. In just three hours, experience a full dose of whitewater rafting excitement and scenery. Raft with the best, and make this summertime classic a part of your Smokies vacation! Details

Dive into a wet and wild family adventure! This Pigeon Forge rafting trip will be the talk of your vacation. Big Creek Expeditions offers two white water rafting options for any age and skill level; the Upper Pigeon River rafting (ages 8+) takes you through class III and IV rapids. The Lower Pigeon River rafting is a scenic float trip for ages 3 and up. Details

Experience the beauty of the Smokies on the Ober Mountain Tram. Enjoy stunning views on this 2.1-mile ride to the Ober Mountain Adventure Park and Ski Area, where year-round family fun awaits. From seasonal winter sports, to indoor ice skating, mountain biking, and more—there’s something for everyone at Ober Mountain in Gatlinburg. Details

Discover lifelike celebrity figures at the Hollywood Wax Museum in Pigeon Forge, TN. Brave Castle of Chaos 5D adventure, navigate Hannah's Maze of Mirrors and survive Outbreak-Dread the Undead. Whether you choose a trip to the wax museum or all four attractions, enjoy unlimited photo opportunities with your favorite stars and be part of the Hollywood scene! Details

An exciting outdoor family attraction, Outdoor Gravity Park offers thrilling zorbing experiences just off the Parkway in Pigeon Forge. Ride down the 1,000-foot hill on one of three courses: Red for groups, Purple for speed, or Orange for extreme solo fun. Water is added (cold in summer, warm in winter) creating a slippery and adrenaline-packed ride. Details

Pigeon Forge helicopter rides offer stunning views of the Smokies and surrounding areas from above! See a beautiful panorama of the Smoky Mountains, French Broad River, Douglas Lake, Bluff Mountain, the Chilhowee Mountain Range, downtown Gatlinburg, and more. Scenic Helicopter Tours offers a variety of flights that are ideal for families and nature lovers! Details

Jump into the fun at Sevier Air in Sevierville, the largest indoor family adventure park! With 38,000 square feet of activities, there’s something for everyone. Try the junior and advanced Ninja Warrior courses or bounce on trampolines. Enjoy the first-ever 3-story net system for kids! Keep your energy up with delicious treats from the concession stand. Details

Get ready for a trekking adventure with a twist! Experience the Smoky Mountains with fluffy, friendly llamas by your side. Whether you prefer a relaxing walk or a more challenging hike, these trained pack-llamas will carry your gear while you explore scenic trails and make unforgettable memories. Details

Sevier County Aviation features a variety of helicopter tours. Experience unforgettable views of the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Choose from mountain and city views, Pigeon Forge or Bluff Mountain, Foothills or Douglas Lake, Gatlinburg or Wears Valley, Mt. LeConte, and Clingman’s Dome! Details