Kids love vacations, don’t they? They like the excitement of going somewhere new and breaking out of their everyday routine. Most of all, they love being out of school! Spring is a great time to take the kids to Gatlinburg, TN. There are tons of things to do in Gatlinburg, and not just for kids. Mom and Dad will have fun, too. Most schools let out for spring break around this time of year, so load the car with the kids and the luggage and head to Gatlinburg!
Since there are so many fun things to do in Gatlinburg and your time is likely to be limited, we thought we’d help narrow down your options. Here are 3 top choices for kid-friendly adventures while you’re here. Choose one or choose them all, and go have a blast!
Oceans of Fun
Voted Best U.S. Aquarium for 2017 in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice survey, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is an underwater wonderland. Kids of all ages love what this aquarium has to offer. Visit the coral reef to see what kinds of fish live in amongst the coral. Shark Lagoon gives you a close-up view of all kinds of sharks. Come learn more about them. The kids will love seeing the penguin exhibit…all those little men in their tuxedos, waddling around. And they’ll also get a kick out of Touch a Ray Bay, a shallow pool filled with rays and other sea creatures that are safe and “touchable.” This aquarium is a great place to spend a day with the kids!
Smoky Mountain Adventures
It’s always good to get the kids outside for some fresh air and sunshine. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail lets you do just that. This 5.5-mile, one-way loop winds you through the forests of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Along your journey, you’ll drive past old log cabins, grist mills, and other historic buildings that are well-preserved and represent some of the history of the Smokies. Continuing on, you’ll follow the Roaring Fork River, one of the larger mountain streams in the park. Several hiking trails can be accessed from this loop road so bring a sturdy pair of hiking shoes, just in case you decide to try one.
All in One Stop
If you want a variety of things to do all in one place, then Ober Gatlinburg is what you’re looking for. This combination ski mountain/amusement park has all kinds of activities to entertain the kids — and Mom and Dad, too! Ride the aerial tram and get a bird’s eye view of the Smokies from the air. Do a little ice skating or shopping. Thrill seekers will love riding the Ski Mountain Coaster, and if the runs are still open, try a little snow tubing. The kids will love the wildlife encounter, where they’ll meet the park’s black bear family, watch otters at play, and learn all about bobcats, birds and other wildlife of the area.
Look Here for Places to Stay
Finding a place to stay while you’re visiting Gatlinburg is easy. Ski Mountain Chalets has a number of chalets and cabins in the area that are perfect for family vacations. Give them a call to ask about When Pigs Fly, OberBaden, or any of their other Gatlinburg large cabin rentals, or visit their website to book. They’ll make sure you get something comfortable and close to all the action!