One Name, A Whole Lot Of Fun
By Leif Palmer
Posted on May 19, 2022
Planning a trip to Gatlinburg this year? Then you should know ahead of time that there are dozens of attractions in town to choose from. It would be unlikely that anyone would have time to do them all, even over the span of a whole week. But believe it or not, making one simple decision on the front end could not only simplify your planning process but also ensure that you and your family have a fun and well-rounded adventure in the Smokies.
Just remember the name “Ripley.”
That's because Ripley Entertainment operates a bunch of attractions in Gatlinburg. And there really isn't much overlap between them. Each offers its own unique take on family fun, so visiting all of them would all but guarantee that your gang gets to do a little bit of everything.
Check out our overview of the Ripley attractions in Gatlinburg, and chances are, you'll find something on that list to suit everyone's tastes, from the young 'uns all the way up to the grandparents.
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies – One of the premiere attractions in the Southeast and one of the most highly rated aquariums as well. This two-level, self-guided aquarium tour introduces you to fish and other sea creatures hailing from all the world's oceans. Pet stingrays, travel underneath Shark Lagoon in a see-through tunnel and much more.
Ripley's Believe It Or Not! – One of the longest-running Ripley attractions in town. It's based on the original Believe It Or Not! cartoon and newsreel series created by Robert Ripley, and it houses a unique collection of oddities and feats of human achievement gathered from around the globe.
Ripley's Marvelous Mirror Maze – Think you can find your way out of this mirror maze with no problem? Chances are, you'll spend a little more time in there than you think. Just try not to walk into the mirrors. But the challenge is half the fun, right?
Ripley's Moving Theater – Strap yourself in and hang on for a motion picture experience unlike most. At this attraction, the seats move along with the onscreen action, making it feel as if you're actually in the film. Current screenings include Aladdin, The Ride and Red Beard's Rapids.
Ripley's Davy Crockett Mini-Golf – Yep, just some good, old-school miniature golf. A vacation classic. Putt your way through two uniquely themed 18-hole courses.
Ripley's Mountain Coaster – Mountain coasters are all the rage in the Smokies right now, and this one will have you holding on tight as you twist, wind and speed your way down their alpine course. You control the brakes, so slow down when you need to or open 'er up and let 'er rip!
Ripley's Super Zone Of Fun – How can anyone say no to a “Super Zone Of Fun?” It's a one-stop playground for all ages, featuring laser tag, mini golf, arcade games and much more.
The best part is that you don't have to drive to eight different attractions. Just park in one of our downtown locations, enjoy our great Gatlinburg parking garage rates and simply walk from attraction to attraction. It's a fun way to see the town!
About Leif Palmer
Leif Palmer loves residing in Gatlinburg. He is an avid outdoorsman: rowing for exercise on the lake, trail hiking, and free climbing rocks in the mountains. He indulges his arty side by periodically beating up pieces of marble by sculpting. He is always frustrated by his inability to sink long putts, and hates his curly hair (but his wife loves it). Leif has been known to muster enough courage to change a diaper, and hopes his son will become a chip off the old block.