The Smoky Mountains offer a wide range of family-friendly activities to fill your family vacation with fun and adventure. Whether your family loves amusement park rides, interesting tourist attractions or getting out in nature, the Smokies has something for everyone. Here are some of the top kid-friendly activities you can enjoy in this beautiful region.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Spanning over 500,000 acres, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Families can embark on kid-friendly hikes like the Laurel Falls Trail, which leads to a stunning 80-foot waterfall, or the Cades Cove Loop, full of historic buildings and wildlife sightings. Driving through the park is an experience in itself, with winding roads and stunning panoramic views. The park also offers ranger-led programs, such as junior ranger activities and guided horseback rides, providing educational and immersive experiences for children.
Dollywood
This theme park is owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, and it combines thrilling rides, entertaining shows and unique attractions inspired by Appalachian culture. Families can enjoy roller coasters like the Barnstormer and Dragonflier, or opt for gentler rides like a scenic steam train journey on the Dollywood Express. The park also features a variety of live performances, from musical shows to traditional Appalachian storytelling, as well as traditional crafters and delicious Southern food.
Anakeesta
Anakeesta is a unique mountaintop park in Gatlinburg that combines adventure with stunning views. Families can ride the Chondola or the Ridge Rambler to the top of Anakeesta Mountain, where they can explore treehouse-themed play areas, a treetop skywalk, and zip lines for the more adventurous. The Vista Gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the Rail Runner mountain coaster offers a thrilling ride down the mountain. Anakeesta also features dining options with spectacular views, making it a great spot to spend the entire day.
The Island in Pigeon Forge
The Island in Pigeon Forge is a lively entertainment complex that offers a variety of attractions for families. One of the highlights is The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a 200-foot tall observation wheel that provides stunning views of the surrounding area. Kids will love the Island Ropes Course and the Arcade City, while parents can relax at the Island Show Fountains, which feature a dazzling water and light show. With numerous dining options and shops, The Island is a great place to enjoy a fun-filled day together.
Gatlinburg Space Needle
The Gatlinburg Space Needle provides an unparalleled view of the Smoky Mountains and the town of Gatlinburg. This 407-foot observation tower features glass elevators that take visitors to an observation deck with 360° views. It’s a great place for families to take photos and learn about the history and geography of the area through the informative displays. The Space Needle also houses an arcade, a theater and a pizza restaurant, making it a great stop during your family vacation.
Ripley’s
Gatlinburg is home to a number of Ripley’s attractions that are sure to delight the whole family. Immerse yourself in an underwater world at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, where you can marvel at colorful marine life from an underwater tunnel, get up close to penguins or explore an interactive touch pool. The fascinating and quirky Ripley’s Believe It or Not! features over 500 unique exhibits and artifacts, from shrunken heads to the world’s tallest man, and a hands-on approach that ensures kids stay entertained. Other nearby Ripley’s attractions include a mirror maze, mini-golf, arcades and a haunted house.
Pigeon Forge Snow
Pigeon Forge Snow offers a unique indoor winter wonderland experience, perfect for families who want to enjoy the thrill of snow sports year-round. With state-of-the-art snowmaking technology, kids can enjoy snow tubing, build snowmen, and snowball fights, all while staying cozy indoors. The climate-controlled environment ensures comfortable temperatures, making it an ideal spot to cool off on a hot day or stay entertained on a rainy afternoon.
Beyond The Lens
This interactive museum features a variety of exhibits that delve into pop culture, conspiracy theories, and technological wonders. Families can explore a virtual reality roller coaster, explore the world of Bigfoot, and even step inside a giant kaleidoscope. The hands-on displays and photo ops provide endless fun for kids of all ages.
WonderWorks
WonderWorks in Pigeon Forge is an indoor amusement park that combines education and entertainment through more than 100 interactive exhibits, all housed in an upside-down building that is hard to miss! The Space Zone, Imagination Lab, and Physical Challenge Zone are just a few of the areas where families can participate in hands-on activities and experiments.Visitors can experience a simulated earthquake, lie on a bed of nails, complete the indoor ropes course or engage in some friendly laser tag competition.
Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is an all-season amusement park and ski area that offers a variety of activities for families. In the winter, families can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. During the warmer months, the park features a wildlife encounter where visitors can see native animals such as black bears and river otters. The Aerial Tramway provides a scenic ride up to the park, and other attractions include an alpine slide, ice skating rink, and mini golf.
For a truly memorable family vacation to the Smokies, consider booking a vacation rental cabin through Compass Properties. Our cozy Smoky Mountain cabin rentals offer the perfect home base for your adventures, with ample space, privacy, and amenities tailored to families. Many cabins feature game rooms, hot tubs, and stunning mountain views, creating a fun Smoky Mountain experience.
Book your cabin rental today and embark on an unforgettable family adventure in the heart of the Smokies!
