Summer vacations are always the times most looked forward to by children as the school has finally let out. Treat your family to a wonderful summer vacation by taking them to Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge right here in the heart of Tennessee. Our vacation towns are the perfect place to find family-friendly summer activities that will make for the perfect summer treat. Take a look at some of our favorite family-friendly activities in Gatlinburg for you to enjoy:
Ober Gatlinburg
One of the most popular family-friendly activities right here in Gatlinburg is located at Ober Gatlinburg. This local amusement park is known for incredible skiing during the winter but a plethora of summer activities during the warmer parts of the year. Visitors can make their way to Ober Gatlinburg by taking the 2.1-mile-long ride up the Aerial Tramway. This spacious tramway lets you take in panoramic views of the area as you arrive at the amusement park. Once inside the park visitors can enjoy a variety of activities. The Ski Mountain Coaster is an outdoor roller coaster that will have you zipping around a lengthy track. The Wildlife Encounter has plenty of exciting critters to see in expansive habitats. Summer Tubing is a great way to have a water-based tub sliding experience. The indoor ice rink is a great way to cool off with ice skating. The Alpine Slide will have you feeling like an Olympic luge athlete as you go down a steep concrete slide. Most of these activities can be enjoyed with a wristband for a single price or can be enjoyed individually. You will also find amusement park rides such as bumper cars, chair swings, mini-golf, and a carousel too. Don’t miss out on Gatlinburg’s biggest attraction here in the summer!
SkyLift Park
Another great Gatlinburg attraction that is perfect for all ages is SkyLift Park. This attraction is also located up in the mountains and can be accessed by an open-air chairlift. SkyLift Park features some of the best views in the entire state as you rise up to 1,800 feet above sea level. Visitors will have a variety of activities to enjoy at the very top. This includes the brand new SkyTrail, a unique selection of stunning trails that highlight the panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Tulip Tower can be accessed during the day for beautiful flowers. The SkyBridge is perhaps the most famous activity at the park. It is the longest pedestrian bridge in the country and even has 30 feet of glass paneling in the middle. Hang out at SkyCenter where you can enjoy an onsite restaurant. The Great Smoky Mountains have never looked better than they do here at SkyLift Park.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Take the family on an underwater journey through the incredible exhibits of Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Aquariums are always exciting family-friendly attractions that feature thousands of incredible wildlife and Ripley’s does not disappoint. Popular activities at this attraction include walking through the underwater sea tunnel, encounters with penguins, and the “Touch a Ray” Bay where you can have a hands-on experience with rays and sharks. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies also features a variety of educational programming throughout the year including camps and other children’s experiences.
Dollywood – Downtown
Pigeon Forge also has a variety of incredible family-friendly activities just waiting for you here. Check out the infamous Dollywood amusement park that brings in over 3 million guests each year. The park was previously owned by Dolly Parton and features exhilarating attractions such as roller coasters and country fair-style scenery. Dollywood has something for children of all ages.
The Island in Pigeon Forge
One of the more recent additions to Pigeon Forge is The Island which is another incredible amusement park. Many locals continue to rave about how much fun it is. The park includes an entertainment center that includes live music, exciting rides such as roller coasters and a Ferris wheel, and plenty of games. The dancing fountain will be a highlight for all children in your family.
Patriot Park
If you are looking for a free activity to enjoy with the kids stop by Patriot Park here in Pigeon Forge. This free park features lovely picnic areas, walking trails that feature viewable monuments, and a variety of events throughout the year. If you plan on visiting around the 4th of July, you can expect a patriotic celebration for our nation’s birthday. Unwind with a peaceful visit to Patriot Park.
More Fun in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
These are just a few of the many different family-friendly attractions and activities here in the area. Make the most of your stay by reserving one of our popular vacation rentals here in Gatlinburg.