The Great Smoky Mountains offer some of the most breathtaking views and outdoor adventures in the United States. But beyond the hiking trails and scenic drives, the surrounding towns provide endless family-friendly entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for those traveling with kids.
From interactive museums and thrilling amusement parks to animal encounters and exciting attractions, the Smoky Mountains region is packed with activities that keep children engaged, entertained, and excited. Families can enjoy the perfect balance of outdoor adventure and indoor fun, ensuring there’s something for every child, no matter their age or interests.
Whether you’re planning an action-packed itinerary or a more relaxed getaway, this area offers countless experiences that cater to all kinds of young explorers. With so many incredible options to choose from, it’s easy to create unforgettable family memories in the heart of the Smokies.
1. Enjoy Sweet-Themed Mini-Golf
Mini-golf is a classic family-friendly activity, but Crave Golf Club takes it to the next level with its candy-themed courses. Located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, this vibrant attraction offers an unforgettable experience for kids who love colorful, imaginative settings.
At this golf club, families can choose between two exciting courses: an indoor course that’s perfect for rainy days and a rooftop course with stunning mountain views. Both are decorated with giant candy canes, ice cream cones, cupcakes, and chocolate rivers, making every hole a fun-filled adventure.
Beyond mini-golf, it offers more kid-friendly activities, including mini-bowling, escape rooms, and a massive candy shop where kids can pick their favorite treats. It makes it a one-stop destination for families looking to add a little sweetness to their Smoky Mountains vacation.
This must-visit attraction is featured on Visit My Smokies, the official travel resource for the Smoky Mountains. It provides travelers with detailed guides, local insights, and exclusive deals to help plan the perfect family vacation. Whether you’re looking for fun activities, top-rated attractions, or travel tips, their website is an excellent resource for making the most of your Smoky Mountains getaway.
2. Experience the Magic of Adventure Park
If your kids love outdoor adventure, Anakeesta is the perfect spot. This mountaintop adventure park, located in Gatlinburg, combines the beauty of the Smokies with thrilling attractions that kids adore.
Families can take the Chondola ride to the summit, where they’ll find a world of fun waiting for them. Highlights include the Treetop Skywalk, where kids can walk across suspension bridges high above the forest, and the Treehouse Village Play Area, where younger children can climb, slide, and explore.
For thrill-seekers, the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster provides an exhilarating downhill ride, while the ziplining courses offer breathtaking views. Anakeesta is the perfect blend of nature and adventure, making it one of the top kid-friendly attractions in the Smoky Mountains.
3. Explore the Wonders of Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, located in Gatlinburg, is consistently ranked as one of the top aquariums in the country, and for good reason. This interactive aquarium is perfect for kids who love marine life and hands-on experiences.
Children can explore Shark Lagoon, where they’ll walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks. At the Penguin Playhouse, they can watch adorable penguins waddle and swim. The Discovery Center allows kids to touch horseshoe crabs and jellyfish, making for an interactive and educational visit.
For families looking to add a unique experience, Ripley’s Aquarium also offers behind-the-scenes tours and glass-bottom boat rides over the shark tank. It’s the perfect way to combine learning and fun in a single outing.
4. Have an Action-Packed Day at Dollywood
No trip to the Smoky Mountains is complete without a visit to Dollywood, Tennessee’s most famous theme park. Founded by country music legend Dolly Parton, Dollywood offers an amazing mix of rides, entertainment, and cultural exhibits that make it perfect for families.
Younger kids will love rides like Busy Bees and Lucky Ducky, while older children can enjoy family-friendly roller coasters such as Blazing Fury and FireChaser Express. The park also hosts live shows, craft demonstrations, and seasonal festivals, ensuring there’s always something new to experience.
During the summer, families can cool off at Dollywood’s Splash Country, a water park filled with slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. Whether you visit for the rides, music, or food, Dollywood is a must-see attraction for families in the Smoky Mountains.
5. Take a Ride on the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
For families looking for a thrilling ride, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is a must-try experience. Unlike traditional roller coasters, this gravity-driven ride allows each rider to control their speed, making it perfect for kids and parents alike.
The track winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking views along the way. Whether you prefer a fast-paced thrill ride or a slow, scenic descent, the Alpine Coaster delivers a unique experience that’s fun for all ages.
6. Step Back in Time at The Old Mill Square
For a more relaxed experience, visit The Old Mill Square, a historic site in Pigeon Forge. Kids can watch the working gristmill grind grain into flour, just like it did in the 1800s.
Families can also enjoy homemade treats at the Old Mill Candy Kitchen or explore the pottery shop, where artisans create handmade ceramics. Feeding the ducks along the river adds a charming touch to the visit, making The Old Mill a great place to slow down and soak in the local history.
7. Go Wild at Parrot Mountain and Gardens
For animal-loving kids, Parrot Mountain and Gardens is a hidden gem. This bird sanctuary allows children to interact with colorful parrots, toucans, and macaws. They can feed the birds, hold baby parrots, and stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens.
It’s a peaceful yet exciting attraction that provides a rare hands-on experience with exotic birds in a serene setting.
The Smoky Mountains region is a paradise for families, offering kid-friendly attractions that cater to every interest. Whether your child loves mini-golf, theme parks, wildlife, or science museums, there’s something for everyone in this exciting destination.
From the candy-themed fun of Crave Golf Club to the thrills of Dollywood and interactive exhibits at WonderWorks, these attractions guarantee a memorable trip filled with adventure and fun. So, start planning your Smoky Mountains family getaway and experience the best kid-friendly activities the region has to offer!
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
