Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
local_activityAttractions - Theme Parks

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

starstarstarstar½ 4.6 (18,420 reviews)
location_onGatlinburg scheduleMon-Sun: 9AM - 9PM timer4-8 hours
Family Fun

About

Ranked among North America's finest aquariums, the centerpiece is the 340-foot Shark Lagoon tunnel where a moving glidepath carries visitors beneath sharks, sea turtles, and tropical fish. Interactive touch tanks, the Penguin Playhouse, and the jellyfish gallery round out the exhibits. Special experiences including Penguin Encounters are available for additional fees. Plan for 2-3 hours. Located at traffic light #5 in downtown Gatlinburg with parking garage access. Entirely indoors.

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

videocam Watch Video

National Chain Family-Friendly Group-Friendly Theme Parks Discount available
location_on
Address
88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
phone
Phone
(865) 430-8808
schedule
Hours
Mon-Sun: 9AM - 9PM
timer
Typical Visit
4-8 hours

More in Gatlinburg

Things to do nearby
Sea of Trees - Ripley's Aquarium Holiday Event

Sea of Trees - Ripley's Aquarium Holiday Event

local_activityHoliday event at Ripley's Aquarium with special decorations and programming
star 4.8 - 1,234 reviews
 Astra Lumina

Astra Lumina

local_activityNighttime illuminated walk at Anakeesta. Light installations transform the fores
star 4.7 - 1,366 reviews
 Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta

Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta

local_activity880-foot elevated walkway through forest canopy.
star 4.7 - 4,734 reviews
 Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta

Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta

restaurantMountaintop dining at Anakeesta with panoramic views. American fare at elevation
star 4.1 - 2,515 reviews
 Bootleggers Homemade Wine - Gatlinburg

Bootleggers Homemade Wine - Gatlinburg

local_activityHomemade wine tasting in Gatlinburg.
star 4.6 - 543 reviews
 Gatlin's Mini Golf

Gatlin's Mini Golf

local_activityMini golf in Gatlinburg.
star 4.4 - 1,186 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a popular attraction located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. One of the country's top-rated aquariums, featuring a 340-foot underwater tunnel and diverse marine exhibits. Downtown Gatlinburg. It is one of the most visited spots in the Great Smoky Mountains region.

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is located at 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It is easily accessible from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville, making it a convenient stop for visitors staying in Smoky Mountain cabin rentals.

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is typically open Mon-Sun: 9AM - 9PM. Hours may vary seasonally, especially during peak tourism months (June through October) and holiday periods. We recommend checking their official website or calling ahead before your visit.

Most visitors spend 4-8 hours at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. However, the actual time depends on your pace and interests. We recommend arriving early to avoid crowds and giving yourself plenty of time to enjoy everything the venue has to offer.

Admission prices at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies vary by age and season. Prices fall in the Discount available range. Check their official website for the most current ticket prices and any available discounts. Many visitors find combo deals and online advance purchase discounts that can save money.

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a popular choice for families visiting the Smoky Mountains. Most visitors with children report having a great experience. The attraction offers something for guests of all ages and is conveniently located near many Smoky Mountain cabin rental communities.

With a 4.6/5 rating from over 18,420 visitor reviews, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is widely considered one of the top destinations in Gatlinburg. Most visitors report that the experience is well worth the time and investment, particularly for first-time visitors to the Smoky Mountains.

Popular nearby cabin communities include LeConte Mountain View (featuring Mountain views, Wooded settings), Black Bear Falls Resort (featuring Clubhouse with meeting room, Heated Adult Pool and Children's Pool), and Greenbrier Creek (featuring Hot tub, Game room). Each offers mountain views, resort amenities, and easy access to Gatlinburg attractions. Browse all Smoky Mountain cabin communities to find the perfect fit for your trip.