Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies


One of eight Ripley's attractions in Gatlinburg, the aquarium is a convenient rainy-day destination – just be aware that everyone else downtown will have the same idea and that the exhibit areas can get unpleasantly crowded. Making the aquarium worth the price of admission is the 340ft-long transparent glide path that tunnels beneath the Shark Lagoon and its mesmerizing inhabitants. And everyone loves the Penguin Playhouse.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Anakeesta

0.1 MILES

A 'chondola' whisks visitors from downtown Gatlinburg to this playground in the sky, where views of the Great Smokies are superb. Once atop Anakeesta…

2. Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts

0.18 MILES

If you're looking for a quality cultural distraction in Gatlinburg, walk to the art galleries and artist studios (viewable from catwalks) at Arrowmont –…

3. Gatlinburg SkyLift

0.34 MILES

This ski-resort chairlift swoops you high into the Smokies, providing stellar views. The lofty SkyDeck and the 680ft-long SkyBridge, the longest…

4. Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway

0.59 MILES

Ride the scenic 2-mile aerial tramway to the Bavarian-themed Ober Gatlinburg ski resort and amusement park. At the amusement park you'll find an indoor…

5. Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

0.97 MILES

If you don't have time to take a chairlift from downtown Gatlinburg to a scenic lookout, you can enjoy a lofty view of downtown and the surrounding…

6. Carlos C Campbell Overlook

3.87 MILES

This scenic overlook provides a sweeping view of the various types of forests covering the slopes to the east. You'll see spruce-fir forest at the top,…

7. Elkmont Historic District

5.72 MILES

Elkmont has much history hidden in its woodlands. Just south of the campground (crossing the bridge over Little River), you'll find a clubhouse and…

8. Mt LeConte

5.96 MILES

Mt LeConte (6593ft) is the park’s third-highest peak and one of its most familiar sights, visible from practically every viewpoint. The only way to get to…