About Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is the best indoor attraction in Gatlinburg: a big, polished aquarium with an underwater shark tunnel, touchable jellies and penguins. It makes a good rainy-day plan or a cooldown after a hot afternoon on the Parkway.
What to expect
Ripley's describes its aquariums as places to come face to face with thousands of fish and sea creatures, travel through an underwater tunnel and touch a jelly. The shark tunnel is the part visitors mention most often, and reviews on Ripley's own page tell you to stick around for the penguins. Ask at the front desk when feedings and talks are scheduled that day.
The aquarium's stated mission is conservation and research through environmental education and animal care. On the way out, the Cargo Hold gift shop sells aquarium-themed keepsakes.
Ripley's Venture Realm, a mixed-reality dinosaur attraction near the aquarium plaza, opened in early June 2026, so there is more to do in the same area.
Hours, address and tickets
- Address: 88 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Hours (week of October 22, 2026): 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on most days, and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday
- Tickets: buy on the official aquarium page
Ripley's listed a fall combo discount of 25% off on October 22. Its FAQ says military members and first responders receive 30% off single attraction tickets, AAA members get $1 off and seniors get $1 off a single admission, and that those discounts apply at the ticket counter only. Ripley's also sells annual passes with unlimited admission to its attractions for a year. Prices change by date, so no adult or child fare is listed here.
Planning tips
- Go early: the first hour after opening is the least crowded, and the tunnel is easier to enjoy without a line of strollers
- Weekdays beat weekends: October and December weekends are the busiest
- Allow time: plan on a couple of hours for a relaxed visit
- Parking: Gatlinburg's city garages, including the Aquarium garage, charge a flat $10 a day, which is usually cheaper than private lots. The free Gatlinburg trolley is another good way to get downtown
Where it fits in Gatlinburg
Because it is indoors, the aquarium pairs well with a morning hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, lunch in town, then the aquarium in the afternoon. Mysterious Mansion and other River Road stops are a short walk away along the Riverwalk.
Who it suits
Nearly everyone. Toddlers love the colors, school-age kids love the sharks, and adults linger over the jellies. If you are choosing one paid indoor attraction in Gatlinburg, this is the one to build a day around.
Good to know
- How long should I plan for my visit?
- Plan on about 2 hours.
