Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Overview

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a fascinating underwater world located in the heart of Gatlinburg. It offers a variety of marine life exhibits, interactive experiences, and educational programs.

One of the most visited aquariums in the United States, showcasing a wide array of marine life and conservation efforts.

Educational Family-Friendly Interactive

Location

Address

88 River Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Neighborhood: Downtown Gatlinburg

Coordinates

35.713800, -83.521200

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$34.99

Children

$22.99

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and more interactive experiences

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

• Spring break events
• Educational programs

summer

Hot and humid

• Extended hours
• Summer camps

autumn

Cool and pleasant

• Fall colors
• Halloween events

winter

Cold

• Holiday lights
• Winter break programs

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Arrive early to avoid crowds
Check for special events

What to Bring

essential

ID Printed tickets Comfortable shoes

seasonal

Jacket (winter) Umbrella (spring/fall)

not allowed

Large bags Outside food Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Long walks
• Stairs

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit cards, Debit cards, Cash

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $30

parking $10

food $15

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable shoes and clothing, Walking shoes, Inappropriate clothing, Swimwear

Booking Tips

• 2-4 weeks
• Official website
• 48 hours notice
• Available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Ripley's Aquarium App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Map of the aquarium, Audio guide, Ticket purchase, Event information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Main exhibit hall

Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Distance: 35 km

Travel Time: 40 minutes

taxi

$50 40 min

public_transport

$15 1 hour 15 min

From City Center

Distance: 1 km

walking

15 min

taxi

$10 5 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique marine life exhibits and interactive experiences

Historical Significance: Part of the Ripley's chain of attractions, known for educational and entertainment value

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning for special events
Best food options at the on-site cafe
Ask about behind-the-scenes tours

Local Recommendations

• Try local cafes in downtown Gatlinburg
• Visit the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Ask for recommendations from staff

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Penguin Exhibit

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Low angle for penguins

Result: Great shots of penguins

#RipleysAquarium #Gatlinburg #Penguins

Shark Tunnel

Best Time: Midday

Tips: Straight on for best effect

Result: Stunning shark photos

#Sharks #Aquarium #Underwater

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Designated indoor areas

prohibited areas Touch tanks, Special exhibits

flash photography Not allowed

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Prohibited

tripod policy Restricted

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Distance: 5 km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: National Park

Gatlinburg Space Needle