Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a great place for kids--even the museums there are packed with exciting things to see and do. The famous Ripley's offers haunted and other kinds of amusements, and children love Gatlinburg's many miniature golf courses, especially because they are usually combined with game centers. When the kids (or parents) have had enough golf and games, the whole family can enjoy outdoor activities in the Smoky Mountains. The grown-ups will appreciate the gorgeous natural beauty, and the youngsters can soak up the action with swimming and raft rides.
Kids often turn up their noses when they hear the word "museum," but their experience in Gatlinburg might change their minds. The city features fun spots, such as Hollywood Star Cars and Hollywood Wax museums, plus Ripley's Haunted Museum and Believe It or Not! Museum. Ripley's also offers other kid-friendly fare, including the Aquarium of the Smokies, the Moving Theater and a mirror maze. (You can get a $10 discount if you visit three Ripley's attractions. See Resources below.)
Children can happily spend hours at Gatlinburg's miniature golf courses, which are often paired with fun centers and game arcades. You can get discounts for extended play--for instance, Old Gatlinburg Golf and Games offers a deal on 10 days of unlimited play, and the second game is half off at Treasure Quest Golf. Circus Golf and other courses will combine golf and another activity for a reduced price.
If you are looking for action behind the wheel, Gatlinburg and surrounding areas offer multiple choices. Take in the Speed Zone/Go-Kart Track, Star Tracks/Fastest Go-Kart Track & Arcade and/or NASCAR SpeedPark in Sevierville. You can find discount tickets on websites, such as Reserve Gaitlinburg.
After all the driving around, families can head out for the scenic countryside around Gatlinburg. Children will get a thrill from a ride on a helicopter (Scenic Helicopter Tours), a chair lift (Gatlinburg Sky Lift) or an aerial tram (Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway). Afterward they can cool down by tubing, rafting or kayaking--check out various outfitters, such as Rafting with Big Creek Expeditions and Rafting with Smoky Mountain Outdoors.
