Are you looking for some family-friendly fun in East Tennessee? Look no further, because this region has it all. From theme parks to wildlife attractions, hiking trails to interactive museums, you won't run out of options. Here are some of the best places to visit while in East Tennessee.
Dollywood is not your ordinary theme park. It has thrilling roller coasters, but it also has live entertainment and shows that are sure to leave you in awe. One of the most popular shows is Dolly Parton's Smoky Mountain Adventures, which features acrobatics and musical performances. The show tells the story of Dolly Parton's family and their struggles in the Smoky Mountains. It's a heartwarming tale that will leave you feeling inspired.
If you're a fan of adrenaline-pumping rides, you won't be disappointed. Dollywood has roller coasters that range from mild to wild. Thunderhead, Lightning Rod, and Wild Eagle are some of the most popular rides. Thunderhead is a wooden coaster that takes you through the mountains at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour. Lightning Rod is the world's fastest wooden coaster, reaching speeds of up to 73 miles per hour. And Wild Eagle is a steel coaster that gives you the sensation of flying through the air. If you have little ones in tow, there are plenty of kiddie rides too, like the Busy Bees, Lucky Ducky, and the Piggy Parade.
Dollywood is known for its live entertainment. You can catch musical performances, comedy shows, and even a bird of prey show. During the holiday season, there's a Christmas show that will leave you feeling festive and warm inside. The show features traditional Christmas songs, dazzling lights, and a visit from Santa Claus himself. And if you're a fan of bluegrass music, be sure to check out the annual Barbeque and Bluegrass Festival, where you can enjoy some of the best BBQ in the South while listening to live bluegrass music.
When the weather gets hot, head over to Dollywood's Splash Country Water Park. It has water rides, lazy rivers, and plenty of ways to cool off. One of the most popular rides is the Big River, which takes you on a rafting adventure. You'll navigate through rapids, twists, and turns as you make your way down the river. And if you're looking for something a little more relaxing, hop on the Downbound Float Trip, where you can float down a lazy river and soak up the sun.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the country. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, and scenic drives and overlooks, the park offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.
The park has several scenic drives that are perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The Cades Cove Loop Road is a popular option, as it takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of the park. Along the way, you'll see historic buildings and churches, as well as stunning views of the mountains. If you're looking for a challenge, try the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This narrow, winding road takes you through dense forests and past rushing streams, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
If you're traveling with children, there are plenty of family-friendly hiking trails to choose from. Laurel Falls and Rainbow Falls are both popular options. Both trails are under 3 miles round trip and lead to picturesque waterfalls. Along the way, you'll see wildflowers, butterflies, and maybe even some wildlife. For a longer hike, try the Alum Cave Trail, which leads to the summit of Mount LeConte. This 5.5-mile trail offers stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding forests.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears and elk. If you're lucky, you might spot one of these majestic animals during your visit. There are ranger-led programs that teach visitors about the park's ecosystem and the animals that call it home. These programs are a great way to learn about the park's history, geology, and ecology, and to get a deeper understanding of the natural world.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife, it's no wonder that this park is one of the most popular destinations in the country.
Gatlinburg is a charming town nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, and it's home to several Ripley's attractions that are worth checking out. Whether you're interested in marine life or just want to see some oddities, there's something for everyone in Gatlinburg.
One of the most popular attractions in Gatlinburg is Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. This state-of-the-art aquarium is home to over 10,000 sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and penguins. You can even take a glass-bottom boat tour to see some of the creatures up-close and personal. The aquarium is also home to a unique exhibit called Shark Lagoon, where you can walk through an underwater tunnel and see sharks swimming above you.
If you're into strange and bizarre things, Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium is the place for you. The museum has over 500 different exhibits, ranging from shrunken heads to a life-size replica of the world's tallest man. You can spend hours exploring the museum and marveling at the oddities on display. Some of the most popular exhibits include a two-headed calf, a vampire killing kit, and a portrait of Leonardo da Vinci made entirely of toast.
If you're looking for a fun challenge, Ripley's Marvelous Mirror Maze is a must-see attraction. The maze is made entirely of mirrors, and it's easy to get lost in the endless reflections. But don't worry, there are plenty of clues to help you find your way out. If you're looking for something a little more thrilling, try the Haunted Adventure or the Moving Theater. The Haunted Adventure is a spooky walk-through attraction that's sure to give you chills, while the Moving Theater is a 5D experience that combines motion seats, special effects, and 3D film to create an immersive adventure.
No matter which Ripley's attraction you choose to visit, you're sure to have a memorable experience in Gatlinburg. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure you'll never forget!
Pigeon Forge is a charming town nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. It's a perfect destination for families who are looking for a fun-filled vacation. The town is packed with family-friendly attractions that are sure to keep everyone entertained. From outdoor shopping complexes to interactive museums, Pigeon Forge has it all. Here are a few of our favorites.
The Island in Pigeon Forge is an outdoor shopping and entertainment complex that's perfect for families. It has something for everyone, from thrilling rides to delicious food. The centerpiece of the complex is the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The Island also has an arcade with plenty of games, a ropes course, and a variety of restaurants. Don't forget to catch the free fountain show that happens every night.
WonderWorks is an interactive museum that's both educational and fun. It's a perfect destination for families who want to learn while having a good time. The museum has over 100 interactive exhibits that cover a variety of topics, from science to art. You can experience a hurricane simulator, try your hand at the giant lite-brite, and learn about space in the space discovery zone. WonderWorks is a great place to spend a rainy day or to escape the heat of the summer.
Pigeon Forge has a variety of dinner shows and theaters that are sure to entertain the whole family. Dolly Parton's Stampede is a popular dinner show that features trick riding and a delicious four-course meal. The show is set in a 35,000-square-foot arena and features 32 horses and dozens of cast members. If you're looking for a night of laughter, check out the Comedy Barn Theater. The theater has been entertaining audiences for over 25 years with its clean comedy and variety acts.
But that's not all. Pigeon Forge has plenty of other attractions that are worth checking out. The Hollywood Wax Museum is a great place to snap a selfie with your favorite celebrity. The Titanic Museum Attraction is a fascinating museum that tells the story of the ill-fated ship. And if you're looking for a thrill, head to Dollywood, the famous theme park that's located just a few miles from Pigeon Forge.
As you can see, there's no shortage of family-friendly fun in East Tennessee. Whether you're looking for thrills or just want to relax and enjoy the scenery, there's something for everyone. So pack your bags and start planning your East Tennessee adventure today!
