Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Tours

Ripley\'s Aquarium of the Smokies which includes interior views and marine life as well as a large group of people
Gatlinburg
Ripley\'s Aquarium of the Smokies featuring interior views and marine life
Ripley\'s Aquarium of the Smokies showing dangerous animals, marine life and interior views
Ripley\'s Aquarium of the Smokies which includes interior views and marine life as well as a family


From sharks and stingrays, to penguins and octopus, get close to a colorful collection of tropical sea creatures at this walk-through aquarium.

Experience a spectacular aquatic adventure at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, where 10,000 sea creatures represent over 350 species. Explore a tropical rain forest or walk through an underwater tunnel, watch live feeding shows and get face-to-face with tropical animals. Since opening in 2000, the aquarium has become one of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions and welcomes about 1 million visitors per year.

Follow the aquarium’s walkways as they lead you between exhibits located on two floors. A major highlight is the Underwater Tunnel and Shark Lagoon. Walk through a 340-foot (104-meter) tunnel and watch as sharks, sea turtles and giant stingrays swim overhead. Spot colorful Indo-Pacific creatures, such as the clownfish, in the Coral Reef exhibit and then admire giant octopi at the Gallery of the Seas. Kids will love the interactive games and the chance to touch a live horseshoe crab in the Discovery Center.

Watch as professional divers hand feed rays in the Stingray Bay before traveling through tunnels and coming up-close to African penguins. Go to the Tropical Rainforest exhibit to see a poison dart frog and schools of piranhas. Take the opportunity to pet stingrays in the Touch a Ray Bay. Visit the aquarium’s control room to learn how the animals are kept alive.

Check the aquarium’s official website for a schedule of interactive events. Among these are swimming with stingrays, interacting with penguins and participating in an overnight camp, where kids can sleep in the Underwater Tunnel.

If you get hungry while visiting the aquarium visit the lower-floor restaurant serving fast food, snacks and drinks. There is also a gift shop selling aquatic souvenirs, art and handicrafts.  

The aquarium is easily accessible from downtown Gatlinburg. The Gatlinburg Trolley stops a short walk from the aquarium’s entrance. If arriving by car, you’ll find several pay-and-display parking lots nearby.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is open daily, including public holidays. Purchase your tickets online to receive discounted admission. Find more details, including information about family tickets, on the aquarium’s official website.

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Reviews of Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
774
5 - Excellent 64%
4 - Good
332
4 - Good 27%
3 - Okay
83
3 - Okay 7%
2 - Disappointing
14
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
10
1 - Terrible 1%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

We loved it

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Went on a Monday evening after 5 p.m. Crowds were very thin.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Skip the mermaid dive

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

This was my favorite part of my trip!

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveler

By 11:00 a.m. arrival, there was no nearby parking. Apparently, there were shuttle buses from distant parking lots, but we would have had to learn how it worked. So, we did not visit the Aquarium.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Call ahead to find out how many school groups are going to be there. It was great but a lot of groups.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Edgewater Hotel - Gatlinburg

Edgewater Hotel - Gatlinburg

3 out of 5
402 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN
Edgewater Hotel - Gatlinburg
Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg

Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg

4 out of 5
539 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
The Park Vista - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Gatlinburg

The Park Vista - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Gatlinburg

4 out of 5
705 Cherokee Orchard Road, Gatlinburg, TN
The Park Vista - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Gatlinburg
Glenstone Lodge

Glenstone Lodge

3.5 out of 5
504 Historic Nature Trl, Gatlinburg, TN
Glenstone Lodge
Courtyard by Marriott Gatlinburg Downtown

Courtyard by Marriott Gatlinburg Downtown

3 out of 5
315 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN
Courtyard by Marriott Gatlinburg Downtown
Sidney James Mountain Lodge

Sidney James Mountain Lodge

2.5 out of 5
610 Airport Road, Gatlinburg, TN
Sidney James Mountain Lodge
Gatlinburg River Inn

Gatlinburg River Inn

2 out of 5
324 Hemlock Street, St. Rt 441/321, Gatlinburg, TN
Gatlinburg River Inn
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gatlinburg, TN

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gatlinburg, TN

2.5 out of 5
Gatlinburg
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gatlinburg, TN
Brookside Lodge

Brookside Lodge

3 out of 5
463 E Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
Brookside Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

At Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, enjoy a memorable family outing filled with captivating exhibits and interactive activities. Explore nearby outdoor adventures like hiking in the Smoky Mountains or visiting local water parks for additional fun. The aquarium offers a variety of recreation activities that cater to all ages, ensuring that your stay is both enjoyable and unforgettable as you create lasting memories with loved ones.

Shopping

At Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, you can enjoy shopping at the Mountain Mall and The Village Shops, both located 161m away, offering a family-friendly atmosphere. Old Town Gem Mine is slightly further at 1.3km, perfect for unique souvenirs.

Recreation

Hillbilly Golf offers a fun mini-golf experience with a family-friendly atmosphere, just 483m from the aquarium. For sports enthusiasts, the Gatlinburg Municipal Golf Course, located 8.0km away, provides a beautiful outdoor setting. For relaxation, TopJump Trampoline Park & Extreme Arena, also 8.0km out, promotes wellness and fun.

Adventure

Experience thrilling adventures at SkyPark, a ski lift located 483m from Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, offering ski and adventure vibes. Enjoy family fun at Wild Bear Falls Indoor Water Park, 1.6km away, and immerse yourself in sports at Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort, 4.8km distant.

Nightlife

The nightlife near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies offers unique experiences. Enjoy a lively evening at Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction for a blend of romance and entertainment, or head to Fannie Farkle's Family Fun Parlor for family-friendly arcade fun. Don't miss the thrilling Ripley's Mountain Coaster for an adventurous ride.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Explore nearby landmarks, national parks, and museums that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Enjoy local attractions and experiences that enhance your visit, from the stunning Smokies to family-friendly activities. Don't miss the chance to discover what Gatlinburg has to offer while visiting this renowned aquarium.

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Experience breathtaking views and diverse wildlife in this stunning national park. With over 1287.5km of hiking trails, it's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in nature's beauty, just 6.4km from Gatlinburg.
  • Dollywood: Enjoy a day of family fun at this popular amusement park featuring thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and delicious Southern cuisine. Located 9.7km away, Dollywood offers a unique blend of adventure and cultural experiences in a beautiful mountain setting.
  • Anakeesta: Just 161m from Ripley's Aquarium, Anakeesta is a family-friendly theme park where you can explore treetop canopy walks, ziplines, and beautiful gardens. Enjoy stunning mountain views while indulging in food and entertainment options.

Best time to go to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

The best time to visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January35.2°F (1.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February40.3°F (4.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March47.3°F (8.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly Low
April55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.9°F (21.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
July73.8°F (23.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August72.5°F (22.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September67.3°F (19.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly High
November45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

To save money on your visit to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, plan your trip between January and March when prices are lower. Book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates, as Saturdays tend to be the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to compare hotel prices and find great deals by filtering from lowest to highest. Additionally, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for potential savings. Exploring the area on foot can also help cut transportation costs while you enjoy the local scenery.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July, October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you're looking for. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation for Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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