This is the perfect way to introduce the kids to a legendary game of yesteryear, and remains open until 10 p.m., making for a great evening activity. The Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Petting Zoo is a great place to take toddlers in the Gatlinburg area. is an award-winning resort and spa nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Smoky Mountains. , rocking chairs to sit and look at the mountains, and spectacular views. price fairly reasonable not great. There are several tours and activities in Gatlinburg that you can book in advance. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts, Also See:Things to Do in Nashville for KidsKids Activities: Pigeon Forge, 576 ParkwayGatlinburg, TN 37738(865) 325-2400Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps, Anakeesta is the Cherokee Indian word for high ground or the place of the balsams.. The farm also offers pony rides, which is a lot of fun for the littles. Here are some other Gatlinburg attractions for toddlers: There are so many fun things to do in this area! Take the whole family to the slopes at Ober Gatlinburg , the only combined ski resort and amusement park in Tennessee, or check out our aquarium, water park, ropes course, ziplines, museums and many other fun Gatlinburg attractions. Inspired by the American folk hero Davy Crocketts adventures, Ripleys Mini Golf courses offers an adventurous take to a game of golf. Photo courtesy of the resort. Ober Gatlinburg is both an amusement park and a winter wonderland established in 1962. If you're looking for some fun things to do with your toddler in Gatlinburg, you've come to the right place! When planning a trip to Gatlinburg, its essential to consider what each site offers in terms of fun, engaging experiences, and educational value. . There are so many great things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for toddlers! Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. The Wild Bear Falls Water Park at the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort boasts a state-of-the-art retractable roof and indoor-heated water for your comfort during whichever season you choose to visit. The kitchen is so popular that there are now two venues in Downtown Gatlinburg to keep up with the demand! Get ready for movies that bring sensations to you as you watch. Ive also spoken to families and locals, gathering insights and recommendations to ensure my selections cater to families needs and preferences. Its an excellent choice for families who enjoy magic and tricks. Think Super Mario, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Slinkies, Strawberry Shortcake dolls, and more. If your kids are fans of Ripleys, Gatlinburg is the place to be! Hes so nice/friendly and makes the experience so much fun! Games and activities for all start at 5 p.m., including mini golf and paddle boats. Go snow tubing year-round at Pigeon Forge Snow, an indoor snow park. Hop out of the car to explore Cades Cove. The age range for Mountaintop Zipline is typically suitable for children above a certain height or weight requirement, usually around 8 years old and above. The stable caters to riders of all skill levels, and their experienced guides are there to help on every trek through the mountains. Will it create memorable and positive experiences for families? Is this activity suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, or young children? Kids can crawl through underwater tunnels to get an up-close view of the penguins atRipleys Aquarium of the Smokies. So, I scheduled a class for my husband and myself. Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational benefits that the activity offers. One of Gatlinburgs newest things families will love, Anakeesta offers an outdoor mountain experience while fulfilling their promise to maintain the authenticity, heritage, and natural beauty of the 70-acre area. Tip: join the waitlist ahead of time. Dollywood and Splash Country are two of the most popular places to take toddlers in the Gatlinburg area. Photo courtesy of the company. Ride the Alpine Slide: The Alpine Slide is a great way to get some thrills while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Plan your trip today and start a new family tradition at Gatlinburg! This exciting place is a great way to see the beautiful mountains from the air while having fun. Moonshine Mountain Coaster Ride 3. Some of our favorite things to do at the Smoky Mountain Deer Farm: Feed the Animals: One of the best parts about the Smoky Mountain Deer Farm is that you can feed the animals. Even better, Ripleys 5D movie adventure presents kids movies like Happy Feet, so if you are looking for kid-friendly activities, youll love it here. There is also different hiking paths for different skill levels as well. The farm offers small, very gentle horses perfect for any age. It was great - doesn't start until dark which was about 9:00 when we went in May. For a sweet treat, grab a few, or a dozen, delicious donuts at The Donut Friar. I tried the chairlift, Tram, and zoo. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Greystone Lodge on the River, Nantahala Outdoor Center Gatlinburg, 1138 ParkwayGatlinburg, TN 37738(865) 436-8283Visit Website. Activities on offer include mini golf, escape games, laser tag, a ropes course, bumper cars, and a laser maze, making Gatlin's one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg with kids. RELATED: 25 Fun Things To Do in Myrtle Beach, SC with Kids. Will teenagers and tweens enjoy this attraction? The Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen is a must-stop on our list when we visit Gatlinburg with our toddlers. Location: 1471 McCarter Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge. There is a large parking lot at the bottom and a small lot at the site. Take a photo with The Ghostbusters Ecto-1 or the Duke of Hazards General Lee Dodge Charger at the Hollywood Star Cars Museum. Location: 1339 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg. Not only will kids have the chance to eat candy at Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen, theyll also get to watch as the candy-makers work their magic in the open-kitchen style venue. This beautiful park is home to a variety of birds including parrots, macaws, and cockatiels. Skate at the Ice Skating Rink: The ice skating rink is a great place to cool off in the summer or have some fun in the winter. Challenge your family to a go-kart race at The Track. The park provides three tracks of excitement, where kids can discover go-karting in a mountain setting and splashing on bumper boats. Age Compatibility: Toddlers (1-3 years old), Age Compatibility: Preschoolers (4-5 years old), Age Compatibility: Young Children (6-9 years old). Go whitewater rafting through the Smokies along the Pigeon River. Ripleys Super Fun Park offers a day of fun. A lot. For kids looking for a thrill and the feel of fresh mountain air on their faces, Ripleys Mountain Coaster is sure to please. Theres even a 25-foot climbing wall! If you think the movements and effects might be too much for your child, you can also ask to have them sit on a stationary seat so they can enjoy the movie without the effects. info@gatlinburg.com, 2023 Gatlinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau, 5 Ways to Celebrate Fathers Day in Gatlinburg. Take a scenic drive through the 5.5-mile winding Roaring Fork Motor Trail. During my latest adventure in Gatlinburg, my heart filled with joy seeing my nieces eyes light up at the Impossibilities Magic Show. I figure they will enjoy the Aquarium. John Gullion 05/22/2021 0 Dollywood Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge The splash pad at Dollywood's Wildwood Grove is great for the little ones and toddlers in your family (Curtis Hilbun/Dollywood media photo) Rev those engines in the go-karts at The Track. Suitable for ages three and up, the coaster offers the opportunity to ride single or as a double rider down a silent track that descends the mountain through lush green trees. Can You See the Smoky Mountains from Knoxville. Its important to check with the zipline provider for any age or height restrictions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for children. They will be able to see different species of sharks, a giant sea turtle, and tons of colorful fish from an underwater tunnel. Learn to fly fish with a guided trout fishing adventure. View an underground waterfall at Tuckaleechee Caverns. Are There Mountain Lions in the Smoky Mountains? 811 East Parkway, P.O. You never know when you or your child will be plucked from the audience to join in on the magic! So get ready for a memorable trip, and lets check out all the fun things to do in Gatlinburg with kids. They also have a ton of hands-on, interactive activities as well as a giant indoor play structure! If you have an hour to spare while in Gatlinburg and you want to try something different, schedule a class at Fowlers Clay Works. Walk the spectacular new SkyBridge, known as the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. Touch a Ray Bay: The Touch a Ray Bay exhibit is a great way for kids to learn about these amazing sea creatures. Hike a paved trail up to the 80-ft high Laurel Falls. Nice course, great staff and a. Explore the Wonder Zones at WonderWorks indoor amusement park, featuring six immersive discovery zones, laser tag, a 4D simulator, and an indoor ropes course. Also, the Imagination Playhouse has 20 minute kids shows from popular books! Children at least 43 inches tall and up are allowed in the theater, while expectant mothers and other guests with pre-existing medical conditions are advised to skip this experience. And for those who want a more intense experience, Ripleys Moving Theater offers 3D movies and rides in a unique and exciting way. 765 ParkwayGatlinburg, TN 37738(865) 436-4307 Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. I ask myself these important questions when rating the activitys educational value. RELATED: 40 Fun Things To Do in Shenandoah Valley with Kids. Some of our favorites include the Busy Bees, Carousel, and the Frogs & Fireflies. Equipped with snow making machines to extend its winter playground until Easter, Ober Gatlinburg offers families a wide variety of indoor and outdoor stuff to do, which are among the popular and fun things to do in Gatlinburg with kids. Mountaintop Zipline is a recommended activity for kids because it offers an exhilarating and adventurous experience. The drive is up a mountain road and may not be for nervous drivers. Are the admission fees reasonable? we lucked into an amazing roadside elk-viewing opportunity and stopped to explore the creek at Chimneys, Located on the Gatlinburg Bypass which runs between the Gatlinburg spur and the Great Smoky Mountains. Wow the big kids by forging a knife at Iron Mountain Metal Craft. Immerse yourself in a movie at Ripleys Moving Theater. I wanted to ensure that I selected attractions that would provide an unforgettable family experience. Kids of all ages can explore America's Longest Swinging Bridge there and have fun on the obstacle course in Lava Valley. Hit the slides at the Dollywood water park in Pigeon Forge. Ultimately, the best way to find a family-friendly site in Gatlinburg is to think about what your family likes, how old they are, and what they are interested in. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? RELATED:U.S. National Parks Guide: Where to Go and What to See with Kids, Dolly Parton's Stampede comes with dinner and entertainment. When it comes to family-friendly attractions in Gatlinburg, there are a wide variety of options to choose from, each with its unique benefits. (Somewhere I have pictures of this! Tatum and Jacob were good also and very interactive! Explore waterfalls, trek the mountains on a family hike, and take a scenic drive through Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Kids love to watch the penguins and even crawl through tunnels to get a closer view. An escape room is one of the newest live interactive entertainment where a group of visitors have to escape a locked room within a time limit. Be sure to take a picture of yourself on the clear gla Hes so nice/friendly and makes the experience so much. Impossibilities Magic Show at the Iris Theater, Gatlinburg City Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest, best hotels to stay at on the Gatlinburg strip. Families describe the experience as something between a roller coaster and a movie. Stroll the downtown streets of Gatlinburg, TN, filled with shops, dining, and attractions; take a gondola ride to a mountaintop theme park; and dress up in western wear for an old-time photo souvenir. My Florida-based family loves the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN area, home to endless kid-friendly attractions and outdoor recreation opportunities. ): There are a lot of fun things for the whole family to do at the National Park for toddlers. This kid-friendly shop also features Italian charm bracelets, wooden puzzles, Thomas the Train, and so much more. When the shopping is done, the whole family can indulge at locations like Maddi Maes Caf & Creamery and The Donut Friar. teacher, Rachel, was amazing and helped guide us in making our own bowls. I ask myself these questions whenever I assess age compatibility. A picnic is the perfect family activity in summer, and Gatlinburgs Mynatt Park is a wonderful spot for it. Home Dollywood What Is There To Do in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg With Toddlers? They might also enjoy the little train ride around the plaza. To achieve this, I relied on my personal experiences and extensive research. Macy's 4th of July Fireworks in NYC in 2023: Get All the Details! Enjoy a family-style meal at Mamas Farmhouse. This is a family-friendly destination with a lot of things to do for kids of all ages. Thanks. But the Impossibilities Magic Show is the best of the bunch. Take the whole family to the slopes at Ober Gatlinburg,the onlycombinedski resortand amusement park in Tennessee, or check out ouraquarium, water park, ropes course, ziplines, museums and many other fun Gatlinburg attractions. There are many family-friendly things to do in Gatlinburg, and these four places are just a few of the many choices. Things to Do in Gatlinburg with Kids THE 10 BEST Gatlinburg Things to Do with Kids Things to Do in Gatlinburg with Kids Enter dates Filters 1 Attractions Traveler favorites All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Inside, youll find the largest collection of pinball machines in the Smoky Mountains, where the whole family can play all day. We had a BLAST! Ober Gatlinburg Although it is most famous for its skiing and snowboarding, Ober Gatlinburg is also an amusement park with a number of activities that are great for toddlers. 2023 Lil' Travel Folks Journey Theme by Restored 316. The attraction promises to offer "high-tech special effects" and simulate the feel of a real earthquake. It was well worth the ticket price! Explore waterfalls, trek the mountains on a family hike, and take a scenic drive through Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There is also a Wildlife Encounter where kids can see animals like otters, snakes, and frogs up close. Held seasonally on Saturday mornings, the Gatlinburg Farmers Market is fun for the whole family. For children five years and older, the Zipline Canopy Tour at Family Adventure Island is an exhilarating tour that nudges participants out of their comfort zone, allows them to conquer their fears, and helps them soar like birds over the Great Smoky Mountains and Pigeon River. Heres a handy list of the top kid and family-friendly things to do in Gatlinburg. Theres also a carousel, perfect for younger members of the family. This is a beautiful valley that is home to a variety of wildlife including deer, bears, and turkeys as well as some wonderful historic buildings to explore. Sharing is caring! My son was able to take a picture in a Lamborghini(for a fee). You can find childrens books, dolls, toys, donuts, candy, accessories youll be surprised. Located in the Old Smoky Distillery, the 7D Dark Ride Adventure is one of the most exciting things to do in Gatlinburg with a toddler. We visit Gatlinburg and the surrounding areas several times a year, and with four kids weve definitely had our share of toddler adventures! As an adventurer who appreciates the grandeur of nature, I cant recommend the Thundering Streams and Falls of the Smokies Guided Hiking Tour enough. Thats why Ive visited numerous locations in Gatlinburg with kids and have learned a thing or two about what makes for an unforgettable family experience. Some of our favorites include the Bear Mountain Fire Tower, the Cascades, and Little Creek Falls. Worth the price of the ticket. Hillbilly Golf is one of the most popular miniature golf courses in the area and definitely the most unique. ! Its a great place to take a break from all the walking and explore all the delicious treats the Smokies have to offer. Enjoy dinner and pick a side at the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud. Today it also features animals native to the Great Smoky Mountains. The interactive nature of the show engages children, captivating their attention throughout. Some of our favorite things to do at Ober Gatlinburg are: Our favorite toddler activities at the theme park: Our favorite things to do at Dollywoods Splash Country: Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Horseback Riding, Final Thoughts on Gatlinburg Attractions for Toddlers. The museum features three floors of genuine weirdness in the form of interactive presentations and exhibits to pique the kids curiosity and get them asking lots of questions. You dont need to visit Gatlinburg during summer to enjoy the Wild Bear Falls Water Parkwith heated pools and a retractable roof, this state-of-the-art family destination is ideal for the winter too. Right below the Gatlinburg Space Needle is a 27,000 square foot haven for unlimited family things to do. Ripleys Super Fun Zone is another recent addition to Ripleys in Gatlinburg. Photo courtesy of the park. Gatlinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau. The gravity-propelled carts take riders on a track of twists and turns that offers spectacular views of the Smoky Mountains. One of the most popular places to take kids in Gatlinburg is Gatlins Escape Games, where your entire family has to work together in finding clues, solving puzzles, and completing challenges in the escape room adventure of your own choosing. Here are those that kids and adults alike will love: An ideal night-time activity that kids can enjoy too, the Impossibilities magic show will introduce the whole family to magic, mind reading, and mayhem. Splash Country is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. We spent an unforgettable afternoon zipping through the Smoky Mountains, her giggles echoing in the crisp air. Get lost in a maze of reflections and enjoy state-of-the-art light and music as you and your kids figure your way out. Recommended Hotel Nearby: River Terrace Resort & Convention Center, 88 River RoadGatlinburg, TN 37738(865) 430-8808Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. Eat pizza and play arcade games at Big Daddys Pizzeria. 919 ParkwayGatlinburg, TN 37738(865) 436-4415Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. Heading to the Smokies with tiny tots? Indulge in a big breakfast at Crocketts and be sure to order one of the famous cinnamon rolls. Parrot Mountain is another great place to take toddlers in the Gatlinburg area. Spend a day at the Ober Gatlinburg mountaintop attraction, featuring year-round ice skating, a mountain coaster, ice bumper cars, a wildlife encounter, summer tubing, and more. And maybe root for Mommy or Daddy to win their tournament. The marble rock weighs nearly a ton but can easily be spun, tilted, and rotated by passers-by, thanks to its suspension on a thin film of water. Plus, the park lies on the banks of the idyllic LeConte Creek, offering a tranquil vibe that the family will treasure after an action-packed trip to Gatlinburg. Overall, it was a nice place to get some beautiful views from the mountain and do some interesting rides. Try your hand on an 18-hole toy-themed mini golf course. The Kiddie Umbrella Rides is one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg with toddlers, as is OBears Mini Golf, the Ski Mountain Coaster, and the parks premiere wildlife encounter. Note that forum content are individual perspectives of forum posters and not the opinion of Tripadvisor, THE 10 BEST Gatlinburg Things to Do with Kids. If you visit from Memorial Day to Labor Day, there will be mermaids swimming in the aquariums too! Does the activity provide learning opportunities to children?