Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg with Kids (2026 Local Family Guide)
Discover the best things to do in Gatlinburg with kids, from Ripley's Aquarium and Anakeesta to easy hikes, mountain coasters, sweet treats, and unforgettable family adventures in the Smokies.
Planning a family trip to Gatlinburg?
You're in luck.
From aquariums and mountain coasters to scenic hikes and sweet treats, Gatlinburg is packed with activities that kids of all ages will love.
Whether you're visiting with toddlers, elementary-aged kids, or teenagers, here are our favorite kid-friendly things to do in Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains.
Quick Picks
Best Overall Attraction
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
Best Free Activity
Explore the Gatlinburg Trail
Best Outdoor Adventure
Anakeesta
Best for Toddlers
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
Best for Teens
Mountain coasters
Best Rainy Day Activity
Ripley's Aquarium + Arcades
Best Sweet Treat
The Donut Friar
1. Visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
Best Overall Thing to Do with Kids
If you're only picking one attraction during your trip, make it Ripley's Aquarium.
It's consistently ranked among the best aquariums in the country and offers interactive exhibits that keep kids engaged for hours.
Kids love:
- Shark Lagoon tunnel
- Penguin Playhouse
- Touch tanks
- Jellyfish exhibits
- Interactive displays
Good To Know
Plan for at least two to three hours to fully enjoy the aquarium.
2. Ride the Chondola at Anakeesta
Best Outdoor Adventure
Anakeesta combines mountain views with family-friendly attractions.
Once you ride the chondola to the top, you'll find:
- Treehouse Adventure Play Area
- Treetop Skywalk
- Vista Gardens
- Scenic overlooks
- Restaurants
- Shopping
Older kids will also enjoy the mountain coaster and Astra Lumina during evening visits.
3. Walk the Gatlinburg Trail
Best Free Family Activity
Not every adventure has to cost money.
The Gatlinburg Trail is one of the easiest hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and follows the Little Pigeon River just minutes from downtown.
Why families love it:
- Easy terrain
- River access
- Wildlife opportunities
- Historic foundations
- Plenty of places to stop and explore
It's also one of only two trails in the national park where dogs are allowed.
4. Ride a Mountain Coaster
Best for Thrill Seekers
Mountain coasters are a Smoky Mountain tradition.
Popular options include:
- Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster
- Moonshine Mountain Coaster
- Rail Runner at Anakeesta
- Rocky Top Mountain Coaster (Pigeon Forge)
Many let riders control their own speed, making them fun for both cautious and adventurous kids.
5. Explore Arcades
Best Rainy Day Activity
Downtown Gatlinburg is full of arcades where kids can spend hours playing games and earning prizes.
Popular choices include:
- Arcadia
- Fannie Farkle's
If you're staying in Pigeon Forge, you'll also find Rockin' Raceway and LazerPort Fun Center nearby.
6. Visit Ober Gatlinburg
Best Year-Round Adventure
Ober Gatlinburg offers something during every season.
Depending on when you visit, you may find:
- Ice skating
- Wildlife Habitat
- Alpine Slide
- Scenic chairlift
- Mountain coaster
- Mountain biking
- Snow tubing
- Skiing and snowboarding
It's one of the easiest places to spend half a day with kids.
7. Enjoy a Sweet Treat
Best Snack Stop
No family vacation is complete without dessert.
Some local favorites include:
- The Donut Friar
- Maddi Mae's Café & Creamery
- Kilwins
- Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen
These are perfect stops after exploring downtown.
8. Visit Cades Cove
Best Wildlife Experience
If your family has a little extra time, drive to Cades Cove.
The scenic loop is one of the best places in the Smokies to spot:
- Black bears
- White-tailed deer
- Wild turkeys
- Historic cabins
- Churches
- Grist mills
Bring snacks and take your time—it's one of the most memorable experiences in the national park.
9. Explore Downtown Gatlinburg
Best Evening Activity
The Parkway comes alive in the evening.
Kids enjoy:
- Watching taffy being made
- Candy stores
- Toy shops
- Street performers
- Interactive attractions
- People watching
Sometimes the simplest memories end up being the best ones.
10. Gatlinburg SkyPark
Best Mountain Views
The Gatlinburg SkyPark offers incredible views of the Smokies and features the famous SkyBridge.
Older kids especially enjoy walking across North America's longest pedestrian suspension bridge.
Good To Know
If anyone in your family is afraid of heights, this one may not be for them.
Activities by Age
Toddlers (Ages 2–4)
- Ripley's Aquarium
- Gatlinburg Trail
- Donut Friar
- Ober Mountain Wildlife Habitat
Elementary Kids (Ages 5–10)
- Anakeesta
- Arcades
- Mountain Coasters
- SkyPark
- Mini golf
Teens
- Mountain coasters
- SkyPark
- Anakeesta
- Escape rooms
- Shopping
- Outdoor adventures
Sample Family Itinerary
Morning
- Breakfast at Crockett's Breakfast Camp
- Ripley's Aquarium
Afternoon
- Lunch downtown
- Anakeesta
- Sweet treat from The Donut Friar
Evening
- Walk the Parkway
- Ride a mountain coaster
- Dinner
Discover More Family Adventures With SmokiesApp
Family vacations move fast.
Weather changes.
Events pop up.
Kids change their minds.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best thing to do in Gatlinburg with kids?
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is widely considered the best family attraction in Gatlinburg thanks to its interactive exhibits and activities for all ages.
Is Gatlinburg good for toddlers?
Yes. Attractions like Ripley's Aquarium, the Gatlinburg Trail, Ober Mountain, and Anakeesta are excellent choices for younger children.
What are some free things to do with kids in Gatlinburg?
Families can enjoy the Gatlinburg Trail, explore downtown Gatlinburg, visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and drive through Cades Cove.
Is Anakeesta worth visiting with kids?
Absolutely. Between the playground, tree canopy walk, mountain coaster, and scenic views, it's one of the top family attractions in Gatlinburg.
How many days do families need in Gatlinburg?
Three to five days gives most families enough time to enjoy Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and a few highlights in Great Smoky Mountains National Park without feeling rushed.
