The Top Attractions For Families In The Smoky Mountains

Aside from the rich beauty, nature and history held in The Great Smoky Mountains, it also holds some of the top family attractions around. But which attractions really are the best for families? With so many in the area, how do you know which ones are worth the time? I’m pretty selective about attractions I recommend, but we visited many and I have narrowed down a list of the definitely, 100% must do attractions on your family’s next visit to the Smoky Mountains!

Dollywood Theme Park
Our age recommendation: all ages
Oh, Dollywood! Aside from actually sleeping under the stars or climbing the mountain side, you won’t get much closer to local Smoky Mountain history, nature and tradition than through the thrills and atmosphere at Dollywood. Not only is Dollywood home to multiple award winning coasters, rides and shows, it’s nestled into a mountain side. Dollywood truly has something for everyone of all ages! This is a must visit attraction.

Tip: Be sure to check the daily hours, ride closures and events schedule before you go. Also check out our article on The Educational Side Of Dollywood. You’ll be amazed at what knowledge you’ll find throughout the park! Connect with them before you go: website, Facebook, Twitter.

Ripley’s Aquarium Of The Smokies
Our age recommendation: all ages
You won’t find many creatures native to the Smoky Mountains here, but you will find “10000 exotic sea creatures in 10 themed galleries” and a day of fun. It’s clear Ripley’s strives to create an aquarium the whole family can enjoy and learn from. Their exhibits are large, open and many hands on. Before you go, always jump online or call to check current shows and unique experiences. During our visit, the mermaids were visiting and the Pearl Harbor exhibit was open. I didn’t think we’d ever pull my history loving 11 year old out of there.

TIP: Check showtimes before you go. Also plan to stop half way through your visit at the aquarium’s 4 story play structure and let your kids burn off some energy! Connect with them before you go: website, Facebook, Twitter.

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WonderWorks
Our age recommendation: 4 – 104 years old
We’ve driven past WonderWorks every time we’ve visited the area. You probably have to. It’s the upside down building on the right as you enter the area immediately following The Grand Ole Opry. To be honest, I never gave it much thought (other than the outside looked fun). Before our last trip though, I read that a friend visited and had a blast with her kids. So, we tried it and discovered a gold mine of fun! Not only is a blast, but it’s educational. I may have even learned more than my kids! It really is an “amusement park for the mind” and SO MUCH FUN! Everything is hands on, ride on, step on, or climb on. From the Glow In The Dark Ropes course high above, the hurricane wind room, the mind boggling art gallery to the over 100 games and experiences, you are in for a day of fun!!!

TIP: To get the most of your visit, take your time and have fun. You may even want to come back a second day! Connect with them before you go: website, Facebook, Twitter.

MagiQuest
Our age recommendation: 4 – 104 years old
The first time we visited MagiQuest, I wasn’t sure what to expect. They claim to be a “live action, magical adventure”. I wondered just how ‘magical’ it could really be and if it would keep my then 6 year old’s attention. It turned out to not only be a lot of fun, but it’s now on our “must-do” list when we visit the mountains! My son is now 11 and became a Master Magi after defeating the dragon on our last visit. My 4 year old even enjoyed searching, collecting and activating things. I was surprised she enjoyed it as much as she did. Time goes fast when playing!

TIP: Your first visit, you will need to purchase a wand along with game time. I suggest purchasing their starter package the first time. It’s very reasonably priced and some packages include all the Pigeon Forge location has to offer including Glow In The Dark Pirate Golf, The Vault laser challenge and The Odyssey Mirror Maze. You could easily spend a half a day of fun here. Connect with them before you go: website, Facebook, Instagram.

Dollywood Splash Country
Our age recommendation: all ages
I mentioned the Dollywood Theme Park above. The water park is equally themed in Smoky Mountain history and heritage. The award winning Splash Mountain has been named “One of America’s Best Water Parks” 3 times by The Travel Channel. Many of the rides are family rides. You can ride together! If your family enjoys water rides or water relaxation, be sure Splash Country is on your to-do list.

Tip: Be sure to check the daily hours, ride closures and events schedule before you go. Don’t miss the 1500′ lazy river. It really is the lazy river of all lazy rivers! Connect with them before you go: website, Facebook, Twitter.

Putt-Putt / Mini Golf
Our age recommendation: all ages
Whether you call it putt-putt, mini-golf or anything else, this game is always a win for our family. Ever since my son could walk, he’s loved putt-putt, especially in Pigeon Forge/ Gatlinburg. Our favorites are the two Ripley locations. The two locations each offer multiple, uniquely themed courses. Ripley’s Old MacDonald’s Farm Mini Golf is located in Pigeon Forge amid the heart of the action. Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini Golf blends right into it’s wooded setting soon after you enter Gatlinburg going up the main drag.

Tip: If you get a hole in one on the last hole, you win an free game! Don’t forget to grab your prize. Connect with them before you go: website, Facebook, Twitter.

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Disclaimer: This writer received media passes to most of the above listed attractions for review purposes. As always, all opinions expressed are those of the writer and in no way influenced by companies or products mentioned within. Post may contain affiliate links. Thank you for clicking through them! It helps keep 4 The Love Of Family here for you