7 Reasons You Should Visit the Ripley’s Aquarium in the Smokies

April 7, 2014

The Ripley’s Aquarium in Gatlinburg is by far one of the most interesting attractions in the Smoky Mountains. Don’t believe us? Check out the list below of the top 7 reasons to visit and decide for yourself.

1. SLIME!

The center of the Gatlinburg aquarium’s newest exhibit, SLIME! and all the other under water things that make you go “Eww,” are by far the number one reason why you and your family need to include a visit to the Gatlinburg Aquarium on your vacation itinerary. With over 15 interactive videos, a dozen new displays, and a hands-on jellyfish exhibit, who doesn’t want to spend the day at the aquarium?

2. Hands On

Speaking of hands on, guests to the Ripley’s Aquarium in Gatlinburg also have the unique chance of touching a real-life stingray. How cool is that? Whether you decide to roll your sleeves up and stick your hand out, or just observe from the edge of the tank, you will not want to miss out on this unique experience.

3. Baby Penguin

Who doesn’t love a baby penguin? They are so little, and believe it or not really fuzzy. Born on May 4, 2013, the Ripley’s Aquarium’s baby penguin is the first to be born at the location. See the cuteness for yourself by heading down to the Gatlinburg aquarium today.

4. Sharks

Unlike the jellyfish and the stingrays, not all the exhibits at the aquarium are hands on. However, guests to the Gatlinburg aquarium will be amazed as they take a ride on the 340-foot moving walkway that takes them under the aquarium’s largest tank that is home to sharks, sea turtles, green moray eels and more.

5. Photo Opportunities

As you may have guessed so far, there are tons of memories just waiting to be made within a visit to the Gatlinburg Aquarium. To capture these moments, we strongly encourage families and guests to remember to pack a camera! Don’t fret if you accidentally leave it at home however, there is sure to be one on sale at the aquarium’s gift shop.

6. Location

The Ripley’s Aquarium in Gatlinburg is located at 88 River Rd, across the street from the Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts. There is plenty of parking located just behind the aquarium. When guests are done touring the attraction, they will love being able to walk up and down the Parkway to all their favorite Gatlinburg shops and restaurants.

7. Free tickets

Visitors to the area choosing to stay with us will be pleased to learn that we offer one free adult ticket to the Ripley’s Aquarium per night stay. Additional tickets to the attraction can be purchased directly from the aquarium’s website for a discount. Adult tickets are $24.99, tickets children ages 6-11 are $14.99, and tickets for kids ages 2-5 are only $6.99 when purchased online. Other area attractions we offer free tickets to include Lumberjack Feud and the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge.

Looking for a place to unwind after spending the day with all the exciting aquatic wildlife at the Gatlinburg Aquarium? Auntie Belham’s Cabin Rentals is proud to offer guests the premier selection of relaxing Gatlinburg cabins. Fully-equipped with everything you and your family need for a relaxing Smoky Mountain vacation, our cabins are located just a short drive away from the heart of downtown Gatlinburg.

For more information on our rentals, give us a call at 1-800-436-6618.