Overview
Beyond the Lens is a unique photography museum offering a fascinating journey through the history of photography. This interactive museum features a vast collection of vintage cameras, iconic photographs, and immersive exhibits that bring the art of photography to life.
The museum celebrates the evolution of photography and its impact on society, showcasing rare and historic pieces that have shaped the world of visual storytelling.
Location
Address
Coordinates: 35.82109279008673, -83.57746431060656
Neighborhood: Downtown Gatlinburg
Coordinates
35.821093, -83.577464
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • spring photography exhibits
- • blooming flowers
summer
hot and humid
- • summer photography exhibits
- • extended hours
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall colors photography exhibits
- • fall photography workshops
winter
cold
- • holiday photography exhibits
- • holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets online in advance
- Bring valid ID
- Check weather conditions before visiting
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate (some walking and standing required)
- • some exhibits may have stairs
- • be prepared to walk and stand for extended periods
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
credit/debit cards, cash
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes for walking, walking shoes or sneakers, inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • at least 1 week in advance
- • official website or authorized ticket vendors
- • 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • available for online bookings
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Beyond the Lens Official App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map of the museum, Audio guide with detailed information on exhibits, Ticket booking and purchase, Exhibit information and descriptions
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café, Outdoor garden
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Café
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
Distance: 35 km
Travel Time: 40 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 10 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Beyond the Lens offers a unique and educational experience that celebrates the art of photography, which is appreciated by both locals and tourists.
Historical Significance: The museum showcases the history and evolution of photography, highlighting its impact on society and culture.
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for a limited time (check website for details)
- Best food and coffee at the back entrance café
- Local photographers often gather in the outdoor garden for informalMeetups and photo walks
Local Recommendations
- • Try the local coffee at the nearby café
- • Ask for guide John for a personalized tour experience
- • Visit the nearby Ripley's Aquarium for a unique combination of attractions
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance with the iconic 'Beyond the Lens' sign
Best Time: Golden hour in the early morning or late afternoon
Tips: Low angle shots for dramatic effect, use the sign as a foreground element
Result: Great shot with good lighting and a clear view of the entrance
Vintage camera exhibits
Best Time: Anytime, but softer lighting in the morning is preferable
Tips: Close-up shots of the cameras, use natural light to highlight details
Result: High-quality shots of vintage cameras with clear details
Iconic photographs exhibit
Best Time: Anytime, but avoid midday harsh lighting
Tips: Capture the entire photograph or focus on specific details, use available light
Result: Stunning shots of historic photographs with good lighting
Outdoor photography garden
Best Time: Golden hour in the early morning or late afternoon
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the entire garden, use natural light for best results
Result: Beautiful shots of the garden with soft, natural lighting
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Aquarium
Gatlinburg Space Needle
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Observation Tower
Anakeesta
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Amusement Park
Arts and Crafts Community
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Cultural Attraction
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Distance: 5km
Walking: N/A
Type: National Park
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues"
- "Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and better photography lighting"
- "Don't miss the outdoor photography garden and the iconic photographs exhibit"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
0
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
$20