12 Places
Aquariums and Animals
Explore a variety of aquariums and animal attractions throughout the Smoky Mountains including Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. Encounter exotic wildlife, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly experiences in scenic mountain settings.
Gatlinburg
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
Shark tunnel & marine life
Pigeon Forge
Parrot Mountain and Gardens
Beautiful gardens with tropical birds
Sevierville
Rainforest Adventures Zoo
Up-close animal encounters
Sevierville
Ripley's Old MacDonald's Farm Mini Golf
Farm-themed mini golf with animals
Cherokee
Cherokee Bear Zoo
Wildlife and bears in Cherokee
Gatlinburg
Wild Bear Falls Water Park
Exciting water slides and lazy rivers
Sevierville
Wild Bear Tubing
Year-round snow tubing experience
Pigeon Forge
Live Alligators Souvenir Store
Shop with live alligators on display
Cosby
Smoky Mountain Llama Treks
Guided llama hikes with scenic views
Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg Farmers Market
Local produce & handcrafted arts
Pigeon Forge
Wear Farm City Park
Outdoor fun with sports and playgrounds
Gatlinburg
The Brown Buffalo Farm
Meet majestic American bison
Picking the Right Aquariums for Your Group
For Families with Young Kids
Visit Springtime Exotic Petting Farm and Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic for hands-on animal experiences that children will love. Ripley’s Old MacDonald’s Farm Mini Golf also offers a fun combination of games and animal encounters.
For Wildlife Enthusiasts
Explore Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies for a detailed look at marine life or Parrot Mountain and Gardens to see vibrant bird species. Cherokee Bear Zoo provides opportunities to see native bear populations up close.
For Those Seeking Interactive Experiences
Rainforest Adventures Zoo offers interactive exhibits and animal shows that engage visitors of all ages. Wild Bear Falls Water Park provides both animal-themed fun and water activities in one location.
For Visitors Interested in Nature and Gardens
Parrot Mountain and Gardens combines exotic birds with beautiful garden settings, making it ideal for visitors who enjoy both flora and fauna. The peaceful surroundings provide a relaxing experience.
For Groups Looking for Variety
With 15 attractions in the area, including aquariums, farms, zoos, and mini golf, groups can tailor their visits to include multiple types of animal encounters and activities, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of animals can I see in the Smoky Mountains aquariums and animal parks?
Are these animal attractions suitable for young children?
How much time should I plan to spend at these animal attractions?
Are there any combined tickets or passes for multiple animal attractions?
Is Kuwohi near any of these animal attractions?
Are the animal attractions open year-round?
Can I bring my own food or have picnics at these animal parks?
Vantage Stays · Smoky Mountain Guide
Aquariums and Animals
Discover aquariums and animal attractions in the Smoky Mountains near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. Enjoy exotic wildlife, interactive exhibits.
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hours & details
The Checklist
| Place | Rating | Hours | Phone | Address | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cherokee | |||||
| Cherokee Bear Zoo | 3.8 ★ | 10 AM - 6 PM | (828) 497-4525 | 1204 Tsalagi Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719 | |
| Cosby | |||||
| Smoky Mountain Llama Treks | 4.9 ★ | 8:30 AM - 5 PM, Closed Sunday | (865) 487-0882 | 640 Padgett Mill Rd, Cosby, TN 37722 | |
| Gatlinburg | |||||
| Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies | 4.6 ★ | Mon-Sun: 9AM - 9PM | (865) 430-8808 | 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | |
| Wild Bear Falls Water Park | 4.2 ★ | 11 AM - 9 PM | (865) 430-4800 | 915 Westgate Resorts Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | |
| Gatlinburg Farmers Market | 4.7 ★ | 8:30 AM - 12 PM, SAT ONLY | 865-436-4178 | 1222 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | |
| The Brown Buffalo Farm | 4.2 ★ | Visible anytime (roadside) | 4411-4493 Birds Creek Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | ||
| Pigeon Forge | |||||
| Parrot Mountain and Gardens | 4.7 ★ | 9 AM - 6 PM | (865) 428-5556 | 1471 McCarter Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | |
| Live Alligators Souvenir Store | 4.2 ★ | 10 AM - 9 PM | 3370 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | ||
| Wear Farm City Park | 4.5 ★ | 8 AM - 9 PM | 623 Wears Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | ||
| Sevierville | |||||
| Rainforest Adventures Zoo | 4.3 ★ | 9 AM - 5 PM | (865) 428-4091 | 109 Nascar Dr, Sevierville, TN 37862 | |
| Ripley's Old MacDonald's Farm Mini Golf | 4.3 ★ | 10 AM - 11 PM | (865) 428-5600 | 1639 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862 | |
| Wild Bear Tubing | 4.5 ★ | 10 AM - 5 PM (Seasonal) | (865) 774-8989 | 1980 Pittman Center Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876 | |
Picking the Right One for Your Group
For Families with Young Kids
Visit Springtime Exotic Petting Farm and Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic for hands-on animal experiences that children will love. Ripley’s Old MacDonald’s Farm Mini Golf also offers a fun combination of games and animal encounters.
For Wildlife Enthusiasts
Explore Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies for a detailed look at marine life or Parrot Mountain and Gardens to see vibrant bird species. Cherokee Bear Zoo provides opportunities to see native bear populations up close.
For Those Seeking Interactive Experiences
Rainforest Adventures Zoo offers interactive exhibits and animal shows that engage visitors of all ages. Wild Bear Falls Water Park provides both animal-themed fun and water activities in one location.
For Visitors Interested in Nature and Gardens
Parrot Mountain and Gardens combines exotic birds with beautiful garden settings, making it ideal for visitors who enjoy both flora and fauna. The peaceful surroundings provide a relaxing experience.
For Groups Looking for Variety
With 15 attractions in the area, including aquariums, farms, zoos, and mini golf, groups can tailor their visits to include multiple types of animal encounters and activities, ensuring there is something for everyone.