Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Quick Takeaway: With year-round hours, family-friendly exhibits, and money-saving bundle options, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-do Gatlinburg stop that pairs perfectly with downtown dining and other Ripley’s attractions.
When you think of Gatlinburg, you probably imagine scenic mountain drives, cozy cabins, and the stunning beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. But right in the heart of this bustling mountain town lies a hidden underwater world, a breathtaking surprise that transports you from the rolling Appalachian hills to the depths of the ocean. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies isn’t just a place to see fish; it’s a journey into a vibrant, living ecosystem, and a can’t-miss experience for families and solo travelers alike. It’s a perfect escape from the ordinary and a great way to add a splash of adventure to your Smoky Mountain getaway.
Diving into the Exhibits: What to Expect
Ripley’s Aquarium is designed to guide you through a series of distinct and captivating environments, each one teeming with unique marine life.
The Tropical Rainforest: Your underwater adventure begins in a lush, humid rainforest exhibit. Here, you’ll encounter a kaleidoscope of colorful fish native to these freshwater ecosystems. Keep an eye out for the infamous piranhas and other exotic species that thrive in this dense, verdant habitat.
Ocean Realm & Shark Lagoon: This is the highlight for many visitors. You’ll board a moving 340-foot glide path that takes you directly through a clear, underwater tunnel. As you travel, you’ll be completely surrounded by graceful sea turtles, massive sharks, and an array of other large marine animals swimming all around you. It’s an unforgettable 360-degree view that makes you feel like you’re walking on the ocean floor.
Penguin Playhouse: Get ready to smile as you enter the whimsical world of the African penguins. The Penguin Playhouse features both an indoor and outdoor habitat, allowing you to watch these charming birds waddle on land and zip through the water. For an extra special view, you can crawl through a pop-up tunnel that places you right inside their habitat for an eye-level encounter.
The aquarium offers dive shows daily where you can watch the fish be fed in the Coral Reef. Make sure to check the daily schedule when you arrive so you don’t miss out on these engaging events.
Planning Your Trip: A Guide to Tickets, Hours, and Savings
A well-planned trip is a great trip. Knowing the ins and outs of ticket options and hours will help you maximize your time and budget. Please note that prices and hours can change, so always double-check the official Ripley’s website before you go.
Ticket Prices
- Adults (ages 12+): A single-day ticket is $42.99.
- Children (ages 6-11): Tickets are $24.99.
- Children (ages 2-5): Tickets are $14.99.
- Children (under 2): Admission is free with a paying adult.
- Seniors (65+) and military personnel may also receive a discount, so be sure to inquire.
Hours of Operation
- The aquarium is open daily, 365 days a year.
- Peak Season (Summer & Holidays): The aquarium often has extended hours, typically until 11:00 PM.
- Off-Season (Most of the year): Hours are often 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- It is always a good idea to check their website for the exact schedule on the day you plan to visit, as hours can vary.
Bundle & Save Options
This is where you can find significant savings! Ripley’s owns a variety of attractions in the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area, and they offer combo passes that are a much better value than buying individual tickets.
- Aquarium + 2 Attractions: Starting at around $59.99 per adult.
- Aquarium + 3 Attractions: Starting at around $69.99 per adult.
- Aquarium + 4 Attractions: Starting at around $74.99 per adult.
These passes allow you to choose from a list of other Ripley’s attractions, such as the Believe It or Not! Odditorium, the Haunted Adventure, mini-golf courses, and more.
Special Experiences
Ripley’s Aquarium offers more than just self-guided exploration. Families looking to elevate their day can book premium add-ons like the Penguin VIP Experience, Penguin Encounter, or Glass Bottom Boat Adventure. These events give you early access to exhibits and unique photo opportunities. They do cost extra (between $12.99–79.99 per person), but for animal lovers or kids who adore penguins, the memories are priceless.
Planning Your Visit
You’ll want to allow 2–3 hours to see the full aquarium at a relaxed pace. Exhibits include Shark Lagoon (complete with a moving walkway through a glass tunnel), the Penguin Playhouse, Stingray Bay, and Discovery Center touch pools. There’s also a café on site for snacks, though many families opt to eat before or after their visit.
The Aquarium Parking Garage is located directly behind the aquarium and is a great spot to park and enjoy Gatlinburg for the day. The cost for the day is $10.00. The building itself is stroller and wheelchair accessible, which makes it convenient for families of all ages.
Pairing with Other Gatlinburg Favorites
To turn your aquarium visit into a full Gatlinburg day, consider pairing it with a few local staples:
Strolling the Parkway: Since the aquarium sits in the heart of downtown, you’ll be steps away from shops, candy stores, and arcades — perfect for filling in the rest of your day.
Breakfast at Pancake Pantry: Start your morning at this legendary pancake house. Open since 1960, it’s known for its long lines and even longer menu of pancake varieties. Arriving right at 7:00 a.m. means you’ll beat the rush.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium: Located nearby, this quirky museum of the strange and unusual is a natural fit if you’ve purchased a combo ticket. It’s a lighter, fun attraction that contrasts nicely with the underwater world of the aquarium.
Final Thoughts
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is more than just an indoor activity — it’s an essential part of the Gatlinburg experience. Whether you’re traveling with kids, exploring as a couple, or looking for a rainy-day backup, the aquarium delivers. With flexible hours, bundled ticket options, and its prime downtown location, it fits seamlessly into almost any Smoky Mountain itinerary. Pair it with pancakes and a stroll down the Parkway, and you’ve got yourself a perfect Gatlinburg day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to go through Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies?
You’ll want to allow 2–3 hours to see the full aquarium at a relaxed pace.
What are the hours for Ripley’s Aquarium?
The aquarium is open 365 days a year, with hours typically running from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00–11:00 p.m., depending on the season. Always check the current schedule before your visit.
Is parking available?
Yes. There is paid parking directly behind the aquarium. Rates are currently $10 a day. There is a self-serve machine that takes multiple forms of payment for your parking.
Are there food options inside the aquarium?
Yes, there’s a café with snacks and light meals. Many families also plan meals at nearby Gatlinburg restaurants like Pancake Pantry before or after their visit.
Does Ripley’s offer combo tickets or passes?
Absolutely. You can bundle the aquarium with other Ripley’s attractions like the Odditorium or Mirror Maze to save money. Annual and “Ultimate Fun” passes are also available for repeat visitors.
Is the aquarium stroller and wheelchair friendly?
Yes, the entire aquarium is accessible for both strollers and wheelchairs. Elevators and wide walkways make it easy to navigate.
What’s the best time to visit for fewer crowds?
Arriving right at opening on a weekday morning is usually the least crowded time. Evenings can also be quieter once day-trippers have left.
