Rides and Attractions in Gatlinburg

Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, family-friendly activities, or unique experiences, Gatlinburg offers something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the top rides and attractions you won’t want to miss during your visit.

1. Gatlinburg SkyPark and SkyBridge

One of Gatlinburg’s most iconic attractions, Gatlinburg SkyPark, offers breathtaking views and exhilarating experiences. The SkyLift takes you on a scenic ride to the top of Crockett Mountain, where you’ll find the SkyDeck and the famous SkyBridge—the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.

• What to Expect: The SkyLift provides a leisurely ride up the mountain, offering panoramic views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. Once at the top, you can explore the SkyDeck, which features seating areas, a gift shop, and a snack bar. The highlight is the SkyBridge, which stretches 680 feet across a deep valley and includes a thrilling glass-floor section in the middle.
• Why You’ll Love It: The combination of stunning views and the thrill of walking across the SkyBridge makes this a must-visit attraction. It’s perfect for photography enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to take in the beauty of the Smokies from a unique vantage point.

Location: 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN

2. Anakeesta

Anakeesta is a magical mountaintop adventure park that offers a variety of attractions, dining options, and breathtaking views. Accessible via a Chondola ride or Ridge Rambler, Anakeesta is a great destination for families and adventure lovers alike.

• What to Expect: At Anakeesta, you can explore Firefly Village, take a stroll through Vista Gardens, or experience the thrill of the Treetop Skywalk—a series of suspension bridges that let you walk among the treetops. For even more adventure, try the Rail Runner mountain coaster, or take in the views from the AnaVista Tower, the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg.
• Why You’ll Love It: Anakeesta offers something for everyone, from peaceful gardens to adrenaline-pumping rides. The park’s beautiful setting and variety of attractions make it a perfect spot for a day of fun and relaxation.

Location: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN

3. Ober Mountain

Ober Mountain is a year-round amusement park and ski area that offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter, Ober Mountain has something to keep you entertained.

• What to Expect: During the winter months, Ober Mountain is the place to go for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. The park also features an indoor ice skating rink, making it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts. In the warmer months, you can enjoy attractions like the Alpine Slide, a scenic chairlift, a mountain coaster, and a wildlife encounter that features black bears, river otters, and other native animals.
• Why You’ll Love It: Ober Mountain offers a mix of seasonal activities that ensure there’s always something to do, no matter when you visit. The park’s variety of attractions makes it a great option for families, couples, and groups.

Location: 1339 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg, TN

4. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is one of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions, offering a fascinating look at marine life from around the world. This state-of-the-art aquarium is home to thousands of aquatic animals, making it a must-see for visitors of all ages.

• What to Expect: The aquarium features several themed galleries, including the Ocean Realm, Tropical Rainforest, and Penguin Playhouse. The highlight is the Shark Lagoon, where you can walk through an underwater tunnel and see sharks, sea turtles, and other marine creatures up close. Interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and live shows make the aquarium an engaging and educational experience.
• Why You’ll Love It: Ripley’s Aquarium is a family-friendly attraction that offers an up-close look at marine life in a fun and interactive setting. It’s a great way to spend a few hours learning about the wonders of the ocean.

Location: 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN

5. Moonshine Mountain Coaster

For a thrilling ride through the Smoky Mountains, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster is a must-try. This alpine coaster allows you to control your speed as you zip down the mountainside, making it a fun and exhilarating experience for all ages.

• What to Expect: The Moonshine Mountain Coaster features individual carts that you can control, allowing you to go as fast or as slow as you like. The track winds through the forest, offering twists, turns, and dips that make for an exciting ride. The coaster is open year-round, and the experience is especially magical at night when the track is lit up.
• Why You’ll Love It: The Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the Smokies while enjoying the thrill of a roller coaster. The ability to control your speed makes it suitable for both thrill-seekers and those who prefer a more leisurely ride.

Location: 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN

6. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium

If you’re in the mood for something quirky and unusual, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium is the place to go. This attraction is filled with strange artifacts, odd exhibits, and fascinating displays that are sure to pique your curiosity.

• What to Expect: The Odditorium features a wide range of exhibits, from shrunken heads and two-headed animals to interactive displays and optical illusions. The museum is designed to entertain and educate, with each exhibit offering a glimpse into the world of the weird and wonderful.
• Why You’ll Love It: Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium is a fun and offbeat attraction that offers something different from the usual tourist fare. It’s a great place to explore with friends or family, and you’re sure to leave with some interesting stories to tell.

Location: 800 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN

7. Hollywood Star Cars Museum

Car enthusiasts and pop culture fans alike will love the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, which features a collection of famous vehicles from movies and television. This unique museum is a must-see for anyone who loves cars and entertainment.

• What to Expect: The museum’s collection includes iconic vehicles such as the Batmobile from the 1966 TV series, the DeLorean from Back to the Future, and the General Lee from The Dukes of Hazzard. Each car is displayed with information about its history and significance, making it a fun and informative experience for visitors.
• Why You’ll Love It: The Hollywood Star Cars Museum offers a chance to see some of the most famous cars in pop culture history up close. It’s a must-visit for fans of movies, TV shows, and classic cars.

Location: 914 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN

Gatlinburg is a treasure trove of exciting rides and attractions that cater to every interest and age group. Whether you’re soaring above the mountains on the SkyLift, exploring the depths of the ocean at Ripley’s Aquarium, or racing down the mountainside on a coaster, there’s no shortage of fun and adventure to be had. So, as you plan your visit to Gatlinburg, be sure to add these must-see attractions to your itinerary and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Smokies.