Ripley's Aquarium in the Smokies in Gatlinburg
August 31, 2022

We offer gorgeous Smoky Mountain cabin rentals that are located all throughout Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, creating the best place to stay for any trip! One of the many benefits of our vacation rentals is that you receive the best of both worlds when it comes to location. You can be tucked away in the mountains with an amazing view, but also be just minutes away from all the exciting attractions in the Smokies. Here are 4 of the can’t-miss things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge:

1. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Not only is Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies one of the most highly-rated attractions in the Smokies, but it has also been voted as the best aquarium in the United States! Once you step inside, you will quickly learn what makes this one of the top places to go. The aquarium is home to over 10,000 exotic sea creatures, including tropical fish, jellyfish, stingrays, and sharks that are over 12 feet long! In the Shark Lagoon, you can travel along a moving sidewalk and experience an up-close look at the sharks as they swim right over your head. Be sure to also visit the Penguin Playhouse, where you can watch the aquarium’s cutest animals waddle, swim, eat, and play!

2. The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island in Pigeon Forge sign

The Island in Pigeon Forge has a little something for everyone, making it the perfect attraction for families and large groups. Throughout the theme park, you will find dozens of exciting activities, restaurants, and shops. One of the many highlights of The Island is the spectacular fountain, which puts on a water dance and light show every 30 minutes! During the performance, you will see the water nozzles shoot up and dance along to 14 pieces of choreographed music. Some of the other things to check out at The Island in Pigeon Forge include The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, The Escape Game, and Skyfly: Soar America.

3. Anakeesta

If you are looking for a place to take in the beautiful sights of the Smoky Mountains, Anakeesta is the place for you! The mountain views combined with fun activities for the entire family are what make the theme park one of the most exciting things to do in Gatlinburg. For the best scenery, be sure to make the 86-step climb to the top of the Anavista Observation Tower. It provides a 360-degree view of the Smokies and the surrounding Vista Gardens. From the top deck, you can observe views that range all the way to Kentucky on clear days. Be sure to take a look at the convenient interpretive signs to learn more about all the mountain ranges that are within sight of the tower.

4. Dollywood Theme Park

Dollywood entrance sign

A trip to Pigeon Forge is not complete without a visit to Dollywood. This local theme park is home to over 50 world-class rides that are situated across 160 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains. If you are a fan of roller coasters, you will be in heaven with all sorts of thrill rides such as the Wild Eagle, Mystery Mine, Lightning Rod, and Thunderhead. In addition to fantastic rides, the park also features an array of other entertainment options including shops, shows, and restaurants. Be sure to bring your camera along to capture all the incredible memories you will make during your day at Dollywood!

Where to Stay

If you are looking for a place to stay near all the action in the Smokies, our cabins provide that and much more. Whether you are looking for a 1-bedroom cabin for a romantic retreat or a multi-bedroom rental for a group vacation, we have the perfect cabin for everyone! During your stay, you will enjoy a multitude of wonderful amenities, including hot tubs, game rooms, full kitchens, and decks with mountain views!

If you have questions about any of our cabins or need help finding the perfect rental for your Smoky Mountain vacation near all the fun things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, feel free to contact our reservation specialists who are always happy to help. We look forward to welcoming you to the Great Smoky Mountains!