Gatlinburg is a family-friendly town in Tennessee that offers a lot to visitors of all ages. There are many attractions in the area, which attracts more than nine million people annually. Below are 18 of the best things to do with kids in Gatlinburg. You can choose one or more of these activities to make your vacation a memorable one.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, a family-friendly attraction, features a wide variety of aquatic creatures. Apart from feeding sea turtles and viewing fish, you can also venture under the water. There is an underwater tunnel that allows you to see green sea turtles and sharks. The aquarium also features a giant jellyfish, stingrays, and horseshoe crabs.
Forbidden Caverns is a beautiful cavern that is also a great educational experience. It's hidden in the country. To find the way out, visitors will need to navigate through a maze filled with secret passageways. This is a great adventure for families who have young children. All children from 5 to 12 years old are eligible for a discount on admission
Dollywood is another very popular attraction for families. It's located in Gatlinburg (TN) and offers rides for all ages. The water park offers guests the opportunity to cool down. $2.50 per day for an unlimited ride. Guests are welcome to participate in the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud.
The Hollywood Star Cars Museum makes a great stop. This museum features many vintage cars, movie props, and more. Guests can even see General Lee Dodge Charger, Ghostbuster's Ecto-1, and more.
If you're looking for more family-friendly activities, you can also go ziplining or kayaking at Nantahala Outdoor Center. Crave Golf Club offers miniature golf. You should also stop by Wild Plum Tea Room to enjoy teas from around world.
Gatlin's Fun Center also offers laser tag for kids. The center has a mini golf course, an arcade, swinging bridges, and more. There is even an escape room where you must solve a mystery.
You must visit Gatlinburg, TN while you're there. The Gatlinburg Space Needle has become a landmark in the area. The observation tower offers a great view of the town. You can then visit Arcadia (a large arcade) located just below Gatlinburg Space Needle. It's a wonderful place to spend an afternoon, with more than 100 games.
You'll enjoy your stay in Gatlinburg, no matter if you're looking for a fun family day or a relaxing weekend escape. It doesn't matter if you visit the area in the summer or the winter, there is always something to do.
Another place to enjoy family-friendly fun in the Smoky Mountains is Anakeesta. This amusement park is close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The theme park features many attractions, such as the Treetop Skywalk with 16 bridges and the botanical garden.
FAQ
Is it safe for my child or me to let him climb trees?
Trees are extremely sturdy structures. If you don't evaluate your child's abilities, climbing trees can pose risks.
To climb a tree higher, you must use both your hands and your legs. Your child must be capable of using both their arms as well as their legs to keep the balance.
Your child will need to be able jump between branches easily. This requires strength as well agility.
If your child isn’t physically ready to climb up a tree, don’t force it.
By using a ladder or sitting on the lower branches of a tree, you can still enjoy climbing it together. Or you can sit on a branch and read books to each other.
What are 5 outdoor activities best for kids?
You can find endless outdoor activities no matter where your home is located. Here are five of our favourite activities that every child should have an opportunity to try.
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Go to the Zoo. Zoos are great places for family time. A visit to the zoo allows you to interact with the animals up close, and it also gives you an opportunity to educate your children about conservation and animal welfare. Many zoos offer educational programs that will help visitors learn about endangered species. You can find more information online or by calling ahead to ask about events and classes offered at your local zoo.
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Visit a Nature Center - Nature centers are wonderful places to learn about the natural world. There are usually interactive displays, exhibits, and many hands-on opportunities. You will be amazed at the variety of cool toys that you can give your children! Visits to nature centers are a great excuse and opportunity for your kids to enjoy a walk through nearby forests or parks.
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Take a Bike Ride - When was the last time you took your kids on a bike ride? As much as you enjoyed riding bikes growing up, your kids will also enjoy it. Bicycling isn't just a good way to exercise; it's also a great method to get to understand your community and find hidden gems.
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Play a Sports Game. Sports games don't only appeal to kids who grew-up playing them. Sports games have continued to be popular for all ages. The key is to find the best game for your group. There are many great ways for families to spend their time together, such as basketball, hockey, baseball, and even soccer.
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Enjoy a Movie Under The Stars - This may be the best way to take in the great outdoors if you have a large yard. All you need to do is grab a blanket or lawnchair, a picnic basket with food and drinks, and maybe even a grill. You'll be amazed at how relaxing it is to lounge under the stars.
Here are five outdoor activities that families will love.
No matter whether you live in the city or out, there are lots of ways to enjoy time outdoors. There are so many ways to bond with your family, such as hiking, camping, fishing and even scuba diving.
Here are our top picks in outdoor activities for kids of all ages.
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Hiking - Take a hike on trails or visit a state forest near you. For your hike, bring snacks and water. You can use binoculars to identify wildlife while you walk. You can pack sleeping bags and tents to keep you warm if your plan is to stay the night.
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Camping - Camping allows you to experience nature from the comfort of your own home. Pack light and choose a campsite that is close to restaurants and stores. For nighttime adventures, bring blankets, pillows and flashlights.
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Fishing – Fishing is an enjoyable activity for both children and adults. Children love to catch fish and learn how to bait the hook. Adults also love to sit back and watch their children catch dinner. Find a place where you can fish for trout, catfish or bass.
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Kayaking is a great way to get a fresh perspective on nature. Kayaking allows you to explore rivers and lakes without the need for boats. Keep an eye out for birds, turtles, and even whales during your excursion.
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Bird watching is a popular hobby in America. It's easy and fun to see how it is so popular. Find a local bird sanctuary or national park to visit. Enjoy looking for hawks, eagles or other feathered friends.
Why is family garden important?
Family gardeners are passionate about growing food to feed their families.
Children can learn responsibility and develop patience, cooperation, time management, problem-solving skills, and tolerance. Growing a garden helps parents build self-confidence and self-esteem. It also teaches how to care for the earth.
Adults who are more connected to nature through gardens can feel less stressed and may have better health. Spending time outside releases chemicals known as "happyhormones", which can make us happier, healthier, and more content.
Family gardening provides many benefits, beyond just physical and mental health. Gardens help to conserve natural resources, preserve the environment, reduce stormwater runoff, filter pollutants, and create habitats for wildlife.
What activities can parents do with their children?
There is so much you can do to keep your kids entertained, it's easy to believe. But really, there is plenty to keep them entertained.
It's also possible for parents to teach their kids important lessons, while having fun. If you play catch together, you can explain to your child how throwing a baseball is an important skill that helps with coordination.
You could even teach him how balances on his bike without the need for training wheels.
There are so many ways you can help your child make memories and develop skills. If you aren't sure what to do with your child, don't worry! Let's just get started and see where it leads.
Is there any good advice I can give to parents who want their kids to start exercising?
Parents who want their children to start exercising should encourage them into trying new activities. Children will be more likely to continue exercising if they are more active.
Parents should not force their children to participate in certain activities. Instead, parents should encourage their children to explore other options such as running, swimming, dancing, martial art, basketball, tennis, volleyball and softball.
Statistics
- Ask yourself, 'What do I want to accomplish, and is this likely to produce that result?'" 2. (webmd.com)
- You can likely find a 5K to get the family signed up for during any part of the year. (family.lovetoknow.com)
- According to the Outdoor Foundation, about half the U.S. population participated in outdoor recreation at least once in 2018, including hunting, hiking, camping, fishing, and canoeing among many more outdoor activities. (activeoutdoors.info)
- A 2019 study found that kids who spend less time in green spaces are more likely to develop psychiatric issues, such as anxiety and mood disorders. (verywellfamily.com)
- A 2020 National Recreation and Park Association survey found that about 82 percent of people in the U.S. consider parks and recreation “essential.” (wilderness.org)
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How To
What's the difference in a swing and slide?
A swing is an enclosed structure that is made from wood or metal. A slide is equipment that allows you down a slope. Both slides and swings can be used indoors as well as outdoors.
Swinging strengthens your core, including your stomach and back. Sliding is fun because it gives you a chance to feel weightless.
But there are some important differences between swings and slides:
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While swings are more expensive than slides, they are still safer. They usually come equipped with safety features such as brakes and rails.
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Swings can be carried around, while slides must be fixed.
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Swings have more space than slide's.
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Swings can be used indoors or outdoors. However, slides cannot be used outside.
If you buy a slide, be careful where you put it. You must ensure that the slide is well-anchored and won't move.
Keep in mind that slides can be dangerous for children under five years old. Before you buy a slide for your child, ensure that you check with the authorities.