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The Appalachian Lodge
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Gatlinburg is one of the best destinations to take a family vacation! With so many fun activities nearby and lots of natural beauty to enjoy, there’s something for everyone at this popular destination. If you are planning a family vacation to Gatlinburg, you might be wondering what activities you should plan to do with your kids while you’re in town. If that’s the case, you are in the right place! We’ve put together this list of some great things to do in Gatlinburg with kids to help you make the most of your next vacation, just read on to learn more:

1. Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

One of the best things to do in Gatlinburg with kids is to visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies! There are so many fun and interesting ways to connect with the marine life at this popular Gatlinburg attraction. Take a walk through a tunnel as sharks swim around you, check out the gorgeous colors of the more than 10,000 sea creatures present at the aquarium, and even touch real stingrays! There are also lots of educational programs available at the aquarium to enhance your visit and help satisfy everyone’s curiosity. If you are looking for a fun way to spend time together as a family in Gatlinburg, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is an ideal choice!

2. Check out the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Kid playing in the national parkAnother of the best things to do in Gatlinburg with your kids is to take a trip over to Great Smoky Mountains National Park! There are so many incredible activities that you can enjoy at the National Park, from hiking, to soaking in mountain views, to spotting wildlife. There are plenty of easy hiking trails at the park that make it possible to bring younger kids along, such as the relatively flat Gatlinburg Trail. Additionally, you can always decide to take a scenic drive through the park if your kids are tired of walking! No matter how you choose to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it will be one of your favorite things to do in Gatlinburg with kids.

3. Try Gatlin’s Escape Games

If you are looking for a fun and collaborative challenge to take on with your kids, Gatlin’s Escape Games are a great way to spend your time! These thematic escape rooms provide interesting and challenging scenarios for a variety of ages, making this a perfect family activity. Work with your kids to solve the Curse of the Kraken’s Eye, the Legend of Atlantis, or another fun challenge. The feeling of accomplishment that you will all share together once you have escaped will be well worth the visit!

4. Play Mini-Golf

hillbilly golf in gatlinburgAnother of the best things to do in Gatlinburg with kids is to play mini-golf at one of the local courses. Mini-golf provides a fun and friendly competition between family members, and the thematic local courses give you lots of interesting options to choose from. Ride up to the mountaintop for a scenic round at Hillbilly Golf, or check out Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf and compete to win the Wild Frontier! No matter where you choose to go mini-golfing, this will be a great activity for the whole family.

As you can see, there are tons of fun things to do in Gatlinburg with kids! With all these great activities and more, it’s no wonder that families love taking vacations to Gatlinburg together. If you are interested in planning your very own getaway, check out some of our rooms here at The Appy Lodge! We can’t wait to welcome you.