Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

4 Best Things to do at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley’s Aquarium is a fan-favorite attraction in Gatlinburg that the whole family can enjoy! From summer camps to sleepovers with sharks, Ripley’s offers a variety of activities that will make your trip to Gatlinburg one to remember! Here are the 4 best things to do at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies:

1. Seaworthy Sleepovers

Turtle at Ripley's AquariumRipley’s Aquarium offers three different slumber parties for all age groups! The first is catered towards families, offering a yummy late night snack, a scavenger hunt, and other fun activities. The second is the Mermaid Slumber Party. This one-of-a-kind party features the beautiful mermaids of the Shark Lagoon! Sleep under the tunnel and visit with mermaids and sea creatures alike! The last sleepover, Sips and Sharks, is a 21 and over party featuring drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and a behind-the-scenes tour.

2. Ripley’s Summer Camps

Ripley’s Aquarium holds multiple camps throughout the summer! The Jr. Aquarist Camp is designed to educate kids on marine science and conservation. Kids will be able to feed the stingrays, test the water quality, and even dissect a squid. The second camp is the Expedition Camp, designed for your little ones. Expedition campers will engage in story time, scavenger hunts, crafts, and more. The kids will also get a chance to get up close to some amazing animals. The Vet Camp is an immersive learning experience where campers will see what it’s like to be an aquatic veterinarian! They will watch and interact as vets perform daily tasks such as suturing, reading ultrasounds, and more!

3. Ripley’s Glass Bottom Boat Adventure

Sharks at Ripley's AquariumThe Glass Bottom Boat Adventure allows visitors to get up close and personal with some of Ripley’s biggest residents. The boat sails into the heart of Shark Lagoon where you can watch as sharks, turtles, and other marine life swim right underneath you. Led by the Adventure Crew, the visitors will learn all about the over 75 different species living at Ripley’s Aquarium and how the facility takes care of them. This unique experience is easily one of the best things to do at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.

4. The Penguin Painting Experience

Make a penguin pal and partake in Ripley’s Penguin Painting Experience. The penguins at Ripley’s aren’t just cute but they’re also talented. These penguins use their feet to create one-of-a-kind paintings that you can take home with you! When you make a reservation you can watch the artists in action. Take home a 8×10 penguin painting that you can help create. Canvas size upgrades are available for an additional charge!

All of these fun-filled activities guarantee a Ripley’s experience you and your family will never forget! Book your next trip with us to see all the Gatlinburg attractions and try the best things to do at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies for yourself!