Smoky Mountain Deer Farm & Exotic Petting Zoo

The farm's website lists camels, zebra, goats, reindeer, Rocky Mountain elk, emu, fallow and sika deer, miniature horses, Continental Giant rabbits, ostriches, Highland cattle, donkeys and zonkies. Deer are the headline: you are invited to walk among them and hand-feed them, and a souvenir animal treat cup costs $2.50. Because the deer are used to people, the experience is closer and calmer than anything you will see from a trail overlook.

According to the farm, the petting zoo is open year round, seven days a week, from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, closed only on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Last ticket sales are suggested no later than 4 PM. Zoo admission is listed at:

• Adults (13 and up): $15.99
• Kids 3 to 12: $9.99
• Kids 1 to 2: $0.99
• Under 1: $0.09

Prices can change, so check the pricing and hours page before you go.

The farm also runs a pony ride for the smallest riders, led by a parent, and a riding stable for the rest of the family. Stable rates are listed at $39.99 for 30 minutes, $44.99 for 45 minutes and $49.99 for 60 minutes, plus a $14.99 doubling fee for little ones who ride with an adult. The weight limit is 250 pounds. Reservations are required for horseback riding, and the stables cannot take walk-in riders. The farm says the trails are 85 percent shaded and have views of the Smokies. Call the stables at (865) 429-2276.

• Bus, RV and tractor-trailer drivers should call first. The farm warns that parking may be limited.
• Wear closed-toe shoes that can get dirty, and bring sun protection. Most of the visit is outdoors.
• Go in the morning for cooler temperatures and more active animals.
• Book stables early, especially for weekends and holidays in fall color season.
• Use the farm's coupons page before you pay full price.

This is a good trip with young children, and a good break from the usual attractions on the strip. It is a drive from the Parkway, so build it into a Sevierville day rather than a quick detour.