For some people, the excitement of water parks is one of the best aspects of summertime. With acres of slides, wave pools and other aquatic attractions, it's little wonder why water parks draw such large crowds each year. Not surprisingly, many resorts have capitalized on this concept by constructing large water parks indoors to be enjoyed year round. Those looking for a rustic getaway can find some of these facilities right in the Smoky Mountains.
Wild Water Dome is the latest addition to Wilderness at the Smokies, which is one of the largest indoor/outdoor water park resorts in Tennessee. The 60,000-square-foot facility has a specialized glass roof that allows patrons to tan and enjoy sunshine year round. Wild Water Dome features a 19,000-gallon surf rider, water thrill rides, wave pool and hot tubs.
Wilderness at the Smokies
1424 Old Knoxville Highway
Sevierville, TN 37876
877-325-9453
www.wildernessatthesmokies.com
Gatlinburg's Westgate Mountain Resort is home to, among other things, Wild Bear Falls water park, the fifth largest indoor water park in the country. Wild Bear Falls provides recreational water activities in an indoor, mountain-themed setting. A retractable roof allows patrons to enjoy the park year round, regardless of outdoor weather conditions. Features include a grotto, lazy river and tube rides.
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort
915 Westgate Resort Road
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
877-819-4028
www.wgsmokymountains.com
The Pigeon Forge Indoor Water Park is a small aquatic facility located within the Resort at Governor's Crossing in Sevierville, TN. Among the features of this water park are a Finlandia Sauna, high-speed water slides and a zero-entry pool.
Resort at Governor's Crossing
225 Collier Dr
Sevierville, TN 37862
800-497-5749
www.governorscrossing.net
