Gatlinburg: Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies & Combo Ticket

Gatlinburg’s Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Great Smoky Mountains. Offering an immersive underwater experience, the aquarium features an impressive shark tunnel where guests can walk among these magnificent creatures. With a combo ticket, visitors can access not only the aquarium but also Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium and the Mirror Maze, ensuring a full day of captivating entertainment tailored to a variety of interests. Whether you’re a family seeking an unforgettable adventure or a nature enthusiast eager to explore the wonders of the deep, this aquarium has something to captivate every visitor.

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Key Points

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg offers an immersive underwater experience with a variety of marine life exhibits.
Combo tickets provide access to Ripley’s Aquarium plus optional attractions like Believe It or Not! Odditorium and Ripley’s Moving Theater.
Tickets start at $44.69 per person with a flexible cancellation policy and "reserve now, pay later" option.
The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, and age restrictions apply for certain rides and attractions.
The aquarium has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on customer reviews praising its impressive size and diverse exhibits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Ticket Pricing and Cancellation Policy

Tickets to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg start at $44.69 per person.

The aquarium offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Visitors can also choose the "reserve now, pay later" option to secure their spot without paying anything upfront.

The tickets are valid for 1 day, and guests can check availability for different starting times. This flexible policy allows visitors to plan their trip with ease and have the freedom to adjust their plans if needed.

Looking for more options in Gatlinburg? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Aquarium Highlights and Attractions

Visitors to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies can expect an immersive underwater experience.

The highlight is walking through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays. Guests can also watch playful penguins at the Penguin Playhouse.

Visitors can walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays, and watch playful penguins at the Penguin Playhouse.

Interactive touch tanks allow visitors to get up close with marine life.

The combo ticket offers access to Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Odditorium, Ripley’s Moving Theater, Ripley’s Mirror Maze, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure, Ripley’s Super Fun Zone, Old Mac Mini Golf, and Davy Crockett Mini Golf, providing a full day of entertainment for all ages.

Combo Ticket Options

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers a range of combo ticket options that provide access to multiple attractions.

The combo ticket includes entry to the aquarium, with optional add-ons such as Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium, Ripley’s Moving Theater, Ripley’s Mirror Maze, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure, and Ripley’s Super Fun Zone.

Guests can also choose to add 18-hole mini golf courses at Old Mac or Davy Crockett.

These combo tickets offer a full day of fun and discovery for all ages, with attractions catering to various interests and thrill levels.

Accessibility and Age Restrictions

The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, ensuring guests of all abilities can explore the diverse marine life on display.

There are also restrictions in place for certain attractions. The Mountain Coaster is reserved for riders 10 years or older and at least 54 inches tall, while children 3 to 9 must be 38 inches tall and accompanied by an adult.

The Haunted Adventure isn’t permitted for children under 6, and those 6 to 11 must be accompanied by an adult.

These measures help maintain a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

Guests have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback on their experiences at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.

The attraction has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 9 reviews. Customers praised the aquarium’s impressive size and diverse exhibits, as well as the well-stocked gift shop. Many expressed their intention to return, highlighting the enjoyable time they had.

The variety of marine life and interactive touch tanks were also lauded. While some reviewers noted minor issues, the consensus is that Ripley’s Aquarium provides a day of fun and discovery for all ages.

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Planning Your Visit

When planning your visit to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, it’s important to consider the various ticket options and pricing information.

Tickets start at $44.69 per person and offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Visitors can also opt for a combo ticket, which includes entry to the aquarium plus additional Ripley’s attractions in Gatlinburg. The combo ticket provides a full day of fun and discovery for all ages.

Accessibility is also a key consideration, as the aquarium and its attractions are wheelchair-accessible, with specific height and age restrictions for certain rides and exhibits.

What to Expect at the Aquarium

Visitors to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies can expect to be captivated by the diverse marine life on display.

The aquarium features:

An underwater tunnel where guests can walk alongside sharks, rays, and a variety of fish.
The Penguin Playhouse, where visitors can observe the playful antics of these charismatic birds.
Interactive touch tanks that allow guests to safely interact with starfish, horseshoe crabs, and other marine creatures.

The aquarium’s exhibits provide an up-close and personal encounter with the wonders of the underwater world, making it a must-visit destination for all ages.

Combining Aquarium With Other Attractions

Beyond the captivating underwater experiences, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers guests the opportunity to combine their visit with an array of thrilling attractions.

The combo ticket provides access to the aquarium as well as options like the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium, Ripley’s Moving Theater, Ripley’s Mirror Maze, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure, and Ripley’s Super Fun Zone.

Golfers can also enjoy 18 holes at Old Mac Mini Golf or Davy Crockett Mini Golf.

This all-inclusive pass promises a day of fun and discovery for visitors of all ages, ensuring there’s something for all to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take to See the Entire Aquarium?

The entire aquarium experience typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore, allowing visitors to enjoy all the exhibits and interactive displays at their own pace. Visitors can spend more or less time depending on their interests.

Are Strollers and Wheelchairs Available for Rent?

Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent at the aquarium. Visitors can rent them onsite to explore the exhibits comfortably. This makes the aquarium accessible for guests of all ages and mobility levels.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks into the attraction. However, outside food and drinks may not be permitted in certain areas, so it’s best to check the venue’s policies beforehand.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

Yes, there are student and senior discounts available. Students can save up to 10% off ticket prices, while seniors aged 65 and older can enjoy a 5% discount on admission.

Can I Take Photos and Videos Inside the Aquarium?

You’re generally allowed to take photos and videos inside the aquarium, but flash photography may be prohibited to avoid disturbing the animals. It’s best to check with staff for any specific rules or restrictions.

The Sum Up

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg offers an immersive underwater experience with an impressive shark and ray tunnel. Visitors can enhance their day by adding combo tickets to explore other Ripley’s attractions. The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, making it a great choice for families visiting the Smokies. With positive customer feedback, it’s a must-see destination for those seeking a full day of entertainment.

You can check availability for your dates here: