Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo

The zoo is home to hundreds of animals from around the world, with an emphasis on tropical species most visitors never see in the Smokies. The scale is intimate: you move through exhibits at your own pace and see the animals up close. The zoo describes its mission as supporting conservation through education and family fun, and it runs school programs as well as public visits.

Reviews the zoo highlights mention an animal show led by a staff host, and they note that the zoo is flat, on one level and air-conditioned, which makes it easy with wheelchairs, walkers and strollers.

For an extra fee, the zoo offers behind-the-scenes Close Encounters with its otters and sloths. A guide takes you back, and you can offer the animals their favorite snacks. Book ahead, since space is limited, and check the zoo's website for current encounter options and prices.

• Adults (12 to 64): $21.99
• Seniors (65+): $20.99
• Children (2 to 11): $14.99
• Under 2: free

Military visitors get $1 off each admission with ID, and a local discount is available with ID. Prices can change, so confirm on the official site before you go.

• Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, 363 days a year. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
• Address: 109 Nascar Drive, Sevierville, TN 37862
• Phone: (865) 428-4091
• Email: [email protected]

The zoo is on Nascar Drive next to NASCAR SpeedPark, near the Parkway at the Sevierville end of the Pigeon Forge strip. That makes it easy to pair a quiet morning at the zoo with an afternoon of go-karts.

• Plan on one to two hours, longer if you book an encounter.
• Arrive earlier in the day if you want a quieter visit with small children.
• The zoo closes at 5, earlier than most Parkway attractions, so put it first in your day.

Families with young children and grandparents in tow, animal lovers, and anyone who wants an indoor stop that teaches something. If you have already watched bears in Cades Cove, this is a completely different kind of animal day.