Looking for unique things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee? Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-see spot that will make your smoky mountain family vacation unforgettable. While traveling through the Smokey Mountains, our family spent a day exploring the area and decided to explore the aquarium. Forget any cheesy 80’s TV shows you might link with the name Ripley’s—this place is all about great exhibits with real-life sea creatures.
A Bit of History: How Ripley’s Swam into Gatlinburg
Before we dive in, did you know Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies opened its doors in 2000? Yep, it’s been a part of Gatlinburg for over two decades. The place is named after Robert Ripley, a guy who loved collecting weird and cool stuff from all around the world.
Our First Time at a Ripley’s Spot
Alright, I gotta be honest. This was the first time we visited a Ripley’s attraction. I was a bit nervous. Why? Well, I kept thinking about that old 80’s TV show with all the strange and freaky stuff. But guess what? My worries were all for nothing!
From Penguins to Jellyfish: The Can’t-Miss Exhibits
Beyond its famous shark encounter, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers a bunch of other amazing spots to meet sea creatures from all corners of the world. Whether you’re into adorable penguins or mesmerizing jellyfish, this place has an exhibit that’ll wow you. So, let’s get into some of the other can’t-miss exhibits that make this aquarium a Gatlinburg must-see.
The Ocean Realm: A Calm and Peaceful Experience
Step into the Ocean Realm and it’s like you’re floating through a big, calm sea. This place is full of fish that look so elegant, you’ll want to sit and watch them all day.
The Shark Encounter Tunnel: Jaw-Dropping Fun
Okay, we have to talk about the shark encounter tunnel. It’s so good it blows other shark tunnels out of the water! You get to walk through a glass tunnel and see all sorts of sharks and fishes swimming around you. It’s like you’re inside a National Geographic show but way cooler!
Penguin Playhouse: Meet the Cutest Birds on Ice
Ever wanted to watch penguins waddle, swim, and just be their adorable selves? The Penguin Playhouse is your spot. This icy wonderland lets you see these cute birds from all angles—even from underwater!
Jellyfish Gallery: An Underwater Light Show
The Jellyfish Gallery is all about color and light. With tanks that change color, it’s like watching a light show, but with jellyfish! These floaty, glowy creatures make this a magical spot you’ve gotta see.
The Mermaid Show: Not Our Cup of Tea
Now, not everything was a splash hit. We caught the mermaid show, and let’s just say it was a bit cringy. Imagine people in mermaid costumes doing flips and tricks. It sounded cool, but it wasn’t our thing. Still, some kids seemed to like it, so maybe it’s just us.
Learning is Fun: Education Stations
They also have stations where you can learn cool stuff about sea animals. They’re easy to understand, even if you’re not a fish expert. And hey, who doesn’t want to go home and tell their friends they’re now a shark whiz?
Penguin Fine Art
At Ripley’s Aquarium in the Smokies, guess what? The penguins are artists! That’s right, these cute little guys dip their feet in paint and waddle across a canvas. The result? One-of-a-kind art that you can actually buy. The best part is, the money goes to helping injured wild penguins. It’s a win-win: you get cool art, and you’re also doing something good. So, of course, we had to buy one! Don’t miss this when you visit! It’s super special and helps our flippered friends in the wild.
So, Should You Go?
Totally! From the history to the award-winning attractions, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-visit spot in Gatlinburg. Just maybe skip the mermaid show if it’s not your thing. But don’t miss the shark tunnel; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
So next time you’re in Gatlinburg, make sure Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is on your to-do list. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
