Gatlinburg provides an array of attractions that the whole family is sure to enjoy.
Enjoy Family Fun at these Gatlinburg Attractions
A trip to Gatlinburg offers plenty to see and do for travelers of all ages and interests. Gatlinburg is a fantastic destination for families because of all of the family-friendly attractions. Spend the day enjoying the breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains, racing down a mountain coaster or visiting the award-winning aquarium. Gatlinburg provides an array of attractions that the whole family is sure to enjoy.
After you experience these family-friendly attractions, be sure to visit one of Gatlinburg’s local restaurants for a meal that will satisfy all appetites.
Click here to read about the restaurants in Gatlinburg.
Family-Friendly Attractions in Gatlinburg
Here are our favorite family-friendly attractions in Gatlinburg.
Anakeesta
Gatlinburg’s mountain theme park, Anakeesta offers not only some of the best views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains, but also plenty of activities for all ages. The 72-acre adventure theme park features plenty of activities, including a ziplines, a mountain coaster, treetop canopy walks, shopping, restaurants and spectacular views of the area. Anakeesta even has attractions catered specifically for children and their families to do together.
Click here to read more about Anakeesta.
Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster
For a thrilling family adventure, take a ride on the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster. You control the speed of your sled, reaching speeds of over 30 miles per hour. Accompany your child for a ride and get your adrenaline pumping as you zoom through the trees and down the mountain. When the sun goes down, most of the coaster is nearly pitch black with the exception of some twinkling lights as added decoration.
Click here to read more about the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster.
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
A great locale to enjoy Gatlinburg’s panoramic landscape is the recently renovated Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Start by taking the Gatlinburg SkyLift 1,800 feet up Crockett Mountain. When you get to the top, walk around the SkyDeck for 360-degree views. Then, if you aren’t afraid of heights, walk across the SkyBridge that’s suspended 140 feet in the air.
Click here to read more about Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.
Gatlinburg Space Needle
Standing at 407-feet tall, the Gatlinburg Space Needle is another great way to get a panoramic of Gatlinburg. Depart the base of the Space Needle and step into the enclosed glass elevator and ride 407-feet to the top of the tower. When you arrive to the top, explore the observation deck for 360-degree views of downtown Gatlinburg, the Great Smoky Mountains and Mount LeConte. The Space Needle’s observation deck also features Higher Learning, an educational exhibit that the children are sure to enjoy.
Click here to read more about the Gatlinburg Space Needle.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park known for its beautiful mountain vistas, wildlife, plant biodiversity, history and so much more. The massive park has an entrance not far from the Gatlinburg Parkway, providing easy access for guests. Bring the whole family and take a scenic hike, fish in the shimmering streams or spend the night at one of the campsites.
Click here to read more about things to do at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Click here to read about kid-friendly hikes at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Ober Gatlinburg
Brimming with activities and attractions for all ages, year-round, there’s so much to do at Ober Gatlinburg. This mountain-top attraction is not just a ski and snowboard destination, but also a family-friendly amusement park. No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll want to take in the spectacular views from the Scenic Chairlift. Ober Gatlinburg also feature the Wildlife Encounter where you and your kids can meet native wildlife, including black bears, river otters, birds and more.
Click here to read more about Ober Gatlinburg.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is the perfect family-friendly attraction. Rain or shine, your children can spend hours exploring each level of this acclaimed museum, learning about different aquatic species and getting up close and personal through hands-on activities.
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Rowdy Bear Mountain Adventure Park
Adventure and excitement await for the whole family at Rowdy Bear Mountain Adventure Park. Rowdy Bear boasts two of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions, the mountain glider and alpine coaster. Reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour with your little one on the alpine coaster. Older kids and adults alike will love soaring through the treetops on the mountain glider.
Wild Bear Falls Water Park
Make a splash at Wild Bear Falls Water Park. Open year-round, this mountain-themed water park consists of both an indoor and outdoor waterpark, located at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa. Take a float along the 90-foot-long lazy river, race down one of the water slides and explore the Ramsey Cascades water play area. There’s even a zero-depth play area designed specifically for toddlers.
Click here to read about more things to do in Gatlinburg.
