Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN With Kids: 15 Family-Friendly Activities
Sweet southern charm, the rugged topography of the Great Smoky Mountains, and an avalanche of indoor and outdoor activities come together to make Gatlinburg a bastion of family fun.
Planning a family vacation to the Smoky Mountains and wondering what to do in Gatlinburg with kids? You’re in luck! Gatlinburg is packed with kid-friendly adventures, from nature trails to exciting attractions.
Whether your little ones are animal lovers, thrill-seekers, or simply want to explore the beauty of the mountains, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive into the top things to do in Gatlinburg TN with kids that will make your trip unforgettable!
Save Big on Your Family Vacation
Planning a family vacation can be a bit overwhelming—especially when you’re looking to keep it budget-friendly while making sure everyone has a blast. That’s where Tripster comes in! With Tripster’s discount tickets, special deals, and hotel packages, you can make the most of your trip to Gatlinburg without breaking the bank.
From discounted admission to popular attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Anakeesta, and even nearby Dollywood, Tripster has everything you need to plan an unforgettable adventure. Plus, you can find bundled hotel packages that offer great value and put you right in the heart of all the action.
That said, read on for a list of things to do in Gatlinburg for kids in the heart of the Smokies.
Things to Do in Gatlinburg with Kids
1. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies – 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Visiting Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a must! This place tops the list of Gatlinburg attractions for kids with its mesmerizing underwater exhibits. The kids will love walking through the shark tunnel, feeling like they’re inside the ocean.
Don’t miss the glass bottom boat adventure that glides right over shark-filled waters. It’s educational, interactive, and one of the most fun things to do in Gatlinburg for families.
2. Anakeesta: A Mountain-Top Adventure – 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
For a blend of nature and fun, head to Anakeesta, one of the best family-friendly Gatlinburg activities. Take a chondola ride to the top of the mountain, where you’ll find treetop walks, a treehouse village, and zip lines that thrill older kids.
The kid-friendly outdoor adventures Gatlinburg offers here will keep them exploring all day long!
3. Ober Mountain: Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway & Ski Area – 1001 Parkway #2, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
You can’t talk about Gatlinburg things to do with kids without mentioning Ober Mountain and its famous Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway. This tramway takes you from downtown to a ski area filled with fun year-round.
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In winter, enjoy ice skating or snow tubing, and during summer, the mountain coaster and wildlife encounters are perfect for younger kids. It’s a classic part of a Gatlinburg family vacation.
4. Moonshine Mountain Coaster – 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
For families looking for a little adrenaline, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster is a great option. This mountain coaster allows kids to ride alongside parents and zoom through the trees at their own pace. It’s an exciting way to take in the scenery and one of the most thrilling things to do in Gatlinburg TN with kids.
5. Smoky Mountain Llama Treks – 640 Padgett Mill Rd, Cosby, TN 37722
One of the more unique things to do in Gatlinburg with kids is the Smoky Mountain Llama Treks. Kids will love meeting these gentle creatures and taking a guided hike with their new furry friends.
It’s perfect for families who want to enjoy the outdoors without the typical hiking experience. These llamas add a fun twist to exploring the Great Smoky Mountains!
6. Outdoor Gravity Park – 203 Sugar Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Just a short drive to Pigeon Forge, the Outdoor Gravity Park is home to zorbing—where you roll downhill inside a giant inflatable ball! It’s a hit with adventurous kids and a great way to cool off on a hot day.
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This kid-friendly thing to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge TN is sure to leave them giggling and talking about it long after the trip is over.
7. Dollywood: A Day of Fun and Rides – 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
You can’t forget about Dollywood when listing things to do in Gatlinburg Tennessee with kids. This amusement park is just a quick drive from Gatlinburg and offers rides, shows, and attractions for kids of all ages.
From gentle kiddie rides to thrilling roller coasters, Dollywood has it all. It’s a full day of fun and a perfect addition to your family vacation.
8. Mini Golf at Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf – 188 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
A round of mini golf is always a fun way to spend time together, and Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf is a themed course that kids will love. It’s quirky and filled with interactive features, making it one of the best Gatlinburg attractions for kids in the downtown area.
9. Laser Tag at Gatlin’s Fun Center – 716 Parkway # 219, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
When it’s time for some indoor fun, laser tag at Gatlin’s Fun Center is a winner. They also offer bumper cars, a mirror maze, and escape rooms, making it one of the top Gatlinburg indoor activities for kids. It’s perfect for a rainy day or when the family needs a break from the sun.
Related Post: Indoor Activities in Gatlinburg – 10 of the Best Things to Do in the Smokies
10. Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Best Family Hikes in Gatlinburg
The Great Smoky Mountains are filled with kid-friendly outdoor adventures Gatlinburg families will love. Try the best family hikes in Gatlinburg like the Gatlinburg Trail or Laurel Falls Trail. These are easy trails that kids can manage while enjoying the beauty of waterfalls and forested scenery.
11. Explore Downtown Gatlinburg
Wandering downtown Gatlinburg is a fun experience on its own. The kids can pick up some treats from the candy shops, watch taffy being made, or grab some quirky souvenirs. You’ll find plenty of eateries offering everything from funnel cakes to fudge, making it a perfect pit stop during your Gatlinburg family vacation.
12. Visit the Gatlinburg Space Needle – 115 Airport Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Looking for thrilling things to do with kids Gatlinburg has to offer? Take the family up to the Gatlinburg Space Needle for panoramic views of the Smokies.
The 407-foot observation tower gives kids a bird’s eye view of the area. It’s a quick trip, but one that offers breathtaking scenery and is a fun way to get a sense of the town’s layout.
13. Ski Mountain Coaster at Ober Gatlinburg – 1339 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
In addition to the aerial tramway, Ober also offers a mountain coaster that kids will love.
The Ski Mountain Coaster lets you control the speed as you twist through the trees, making it a thrilling yet safe ride for families. It’s another reason why Ober Gatlinburg remains a favorite for things to do with kids in Gatlinburg.
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14. Ice Skating at Ober Gatlinburg
Even if you’re visiting in the summer, the ice skating rink at Ober Gatlinburg is open year-round—and it’s a popular activity in Gatlinburg for kids! It’s a great way for kids to burn off some energy while staying cool indoors. Plus, it’s a classic family-friendly activity that always brings out smiles.
15. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail – 117 Airport Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
For a peaceful yet scenic drive, try the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. It’s a great way to experience the Smokies without tiring out little legs. Along the route, you’ll find historic buildings, waterfalls, and plenty of spots to pull over for photos.
It’s an easy way to enjoy Smoky Mountains family attractions without the hassle of a long hike.
Planning an Unforgettable Trip
With so many kid-friendly things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge TN, planning a trip here is a breeze. From exploring nature to enjoying the thrills of a mountain coaster or aquarium, there’s no shortage of Gatlinburg attractions for kids.
So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for a family adventure in the Smokies that your kids will remember for years to come!
Read our Gatlinburg travel guide for more Gatlinburg family vacation ideas.
