Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

"Very cool aquarium! The whole family loved the Shark Lagoon! It was so cool to see the sharks swim right over our heads! The kids can pet the stingrays and watch the baby hammerhead sharks swim by as well. Admission is pricey, as with any aquarium I have ever been to. They have various ticket packages that go from aquarium only at 42.50 per adult and all the way up to aquarium with 11 parkway adventures, not sure on the price of that one. We were happy with the aquarium only. Overall, a very cool experience that will definitely make the kiddos happy."

"If you’re heading to Gatlinburg, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is absolutely worth a stop. The whole place feels welcoming and well‑designed, and the exhibits flow in a way that makes the visit relaxing instead of rushed. The underwater tunnel is the real showstopper. There’s nothing like watching sharks, rays, and sea turtles glide right over your head. The staff is friendly and full of fun facts, and the interactive areas make it easy to get hands‑on without feeling overwhelmed. One tip: be sure to check the feeding times and dive shows. They add so much to the experience, and it’s easy to miss them if you don’t plan ahead. And whatever you do, don’t skip the penguin parade. It’s short, adorable, and one of those little moments that sticks with you. Overall, it’s a great spot for families, couples, or anyone who loves marine life. Definitely a highlight of Gatlinburg."

"This is one of the best aquarium s that I have visited. They have several neat attractions and features. Great location in the heart of Gatlinburg. This is a great place for kids of all ages and families of all sizes."