Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg
Address 88 River Rd Gatlinburg, TN 37738-3261 Map, Tel 865-430-8808 Call, Website
There are so many kid friendly areas to explore in this aquarium, but our very favorite part of Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is the hours of operation.
So many aquariums close at 6 pm. Ripley's is open much later (until 11 pm during the summer season and until 9 pm the rest of the year). The extended hours mean that we enjoy the aquarium during the busy hours, leave to go have a relaxing supper, then return to the aquarium later that night. After 8pm or so, it clears out greatly and we are left to wander to our children's favorite attractions without the crowds. We can linger in the shark tunnel or hang out in Touch a Ray Bay. We truly adore this aquarium and love being part of the "night crew".