Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg is a captivating, award-winning attraction that immerses visitors in the wonders of ocean life through a 340-foot underwater tunnel, where you can watch sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and thousands of exotic creatures glide overhead. Inside, themed galleries—from a lush tropical rainforest to coral reefs and a vibrant Penguin Playhouse—bring you face-to-face with animals like African penguins and horseshoe crabs, complete with interactive touch pools and entertaining dive demonstrations. The facility also features daily feeding shows, glass-bottom boat rides over the shark lagoon, and special experiences like mermaid appearances in summer and adult sleepovers with the penguins. Compact yet packed with surprises, Ripley’s combines education, conservation, and immersive fun to create a memorable, family-friendly adventure in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg.

Address: 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 · Phone: (865) 430-8808