Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

About

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is one of the top-rated aquariums in the country and consistently ranks as the number one attraction in the Great Smoky Mountains region. With more than 10,000 exotic sea creatures across dozens of exhibits, it offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.

The centerpiece is the Shark Lagoon, where a 340-foot moving walkway carries you through an underwater tunnel while sharks, green sea turtles, and stingrays glide overhead and all around you. It's a breathtaking experience that puts you right in the middle of the ocean without getting wet. The Penguin Playhouse lets you watch African penguins waddle, swim, and play just inches away through crystal-clear glass.

Interactive exhibits are a big part of what makes this aquarium special. Touch tanks let you gently pet horseshoe crabs, stingrays, and even small sharks. The Coral Reef exhibit showcases vibrant tropical fish in a living reef environment, and the Gallery of the Seas features jellyfish displays with color-changing lighting that kids especially love.

The aquarium is located right on the Gatlinburg strip, making it easy to combine with other Smokies attractions. It's open year-round, including holidays, and typically stays open into the evening hours. During peak season, visiting early in the morning or later in the evening means smaller crowds and a more relaxed pace.

Plan for about two to three hours to see everything comfortably. There's a gift shop and a cafe on-site, and plenty of dining options within walking distance along the Parkway. Combo tickets are available that bundle the aquarium with other Ripley's attractions in Gatlinburg, though not all combo activities share the same level of accessibility.

Accessibility

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is fully wheelchair accessible, and all exhibits and attractions within the aquarium meet ADA specifications. The building features wide pathways, ramps, and elevator access throughout, so visitors using wheelchairs or mobility devices can enjoy every exhibit, including the underwater tunnel walkway.

Wheelchairs are available for rental at Guest Services on a first-come, first-served basis. The aquarium's layout follows a continuous path through the exhibits, which works well for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. Touch tank areas are designed to be reachable from a seated position.

Service animals that are dogs or miniature horses, individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability, are welcome inside the aquarium. The facility has accessible restrooms located throughout the building.

It's worth noting that some rides and activities included in combo ticket packages, such as Ripley's Mountain Coaster and Super Fun Park, are not ADA accessible due to the physical nature of those rides. The aquarium itself, however, is fully accessible.

For visitors with sensory sensitivities, the aquarium can be busy and loud during peak hours. Visiting during weekday mornings or evening hours typically provides a calmer atmosphere. Contact Guest Services at the aquarium for information about any additional accommodations, including details about assistive devices or special programs that may be available during your visit.

More accessible places in Tennessee

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Gatlinburg)
• Ober Mountain Ski Resort & Adventure Park (Gatlinburg)
• Adventure Science Center (Nashville)
• Ryman Auditorium (Nashville)
• Andrew Johnson National Historic Site (Greeneville)
• Obed Wild and Scenic River (Wartburg)