The aquarium’s main focus is on education, conservation, and hands-on experiences, making it a must-visit for families, couples, and groups looking to explore marine life up close. Home to over 100,000 animals from 350 species, Ripley’s offers a chance to see everything from sea turtles and coral reefs to mysterious jellyfish and playful penguins.
With 2 levels of exhibits, you’ll walk through a massive underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, touch stingrays in a shallow lagoon, and even watch live dive shows. Interactive experiences like behind-the-scenes tours, glass-bottom boat rides, and sleepovers under the shark tank make this more than just an aquarium—it’s a full adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another deep-sea dive, there’s always something new to discover.
Getting There: Directions, Parking & Accessibility
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is located in downtown Gatlinburg, making it easily accessible whether you’re driving or using public transportation.
- Parking: The Aquarium Parking Garage, located at 161 Greystone Heights Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, offers 364 spaces for passenger vehicles. The parking rate is $10 per day. Additional public parking lots are available throughout Gatlinburg, with rates varying by location. For instance, the McMahan/Parkway Parking Garage at 520 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, also charges $10 per day. Please note that overnight and long-term parking are not permitted in these facilities
- Public Transportation: To avoid parking fees and enjoy a convenient ride, consider using the Gatlinburg Trolley System. The trolley provides an affordable and accessible way to reach the aquarium and other attractions in the area. As of previous reports, the trolley fare was $0.50 per ride per person or $2.00 for an all-day ticket, though current rates may vary. tripadvisor.com
- Accessibility: The aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps throughout the facility. Stroller rentals are also available for families with young children.
Hours of Operation
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies operates year-round, with hours varying by season:
- Weekdays: Typically open from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Weekends: Hours may extend from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
It’s advisable to check the official website or contact the aquarium directly at (865) 430-8808 for the most current information before planning your visit.
Promotions and Discounts
Beat the Crowd Promotion
From March 1 to April 30, 2025, Ripley’s is offering a 25% discount on full-priced single-attraction tickets across all their Tennessee attractions, including the Aquarium of the Smokies. This promotion is available for both online and in-person ticket purchases. To benefit from this offer, simply use the promo code BEATTHECROWD during your purchase.
Key Details:
- Discount: 25% off full-priced single-attraction tickets.
- Promo Code: BEATTHECROWD
- Validity Period: March 1 – April 30, 2025
- Applicable Attractions: All Ripley’s Tennessee attractions, including:
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium
- Ripley’s Haunted Adventure
- Ripley’s 5D Moving Theater
- Ripley’s Mirror Maze
- Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf
Ripley’s Old MacDonald’s Farm Mini-Golf
Ripley’s Super Fun Zone
How to Redeem:
- Online: Visit the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies website, select your desired tickets, and enter the promo code BEATTHECROWD at checkout to receive the discount.
- In-Person: Mention the promo code BEATTHECROWD at the ticket counter when purchasing your tickets.
Terms and Conditions:
- This promotion cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts.
- The discount applies only to full-priced single-attraction tickets.
- Valid for all Tennessee Ripley’s attractions during the specified dates.
By planning your visit during this promotional period, you can enjoy savings and potentially experience smaller crowds, making your adventure both economical and enjoyable.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the official promotion page.
This information was last updated in March 2025.
Ripley’s Combo Tickets
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers a variety of ticket options and annual passes to fit different budgets and travel plans. Whether you’re visiting just the aquarium or looking to explore multiple Ripley’s attractions in Gatlinburg, there are great deals available. For those wanting the best value, combo packages allow you to bundle the aquarium with other Ripley’s experiences at a discounted rate. To see all ticket options and pricing, visit their combo ticket page.
Ticket Options
- Single-Attraction Tickets:
- Adults (ages 12+): Starting at $39.99
- Children (ages 3–11): Starting at $24.99
- Children under 3: Free
- Combo Packages: For added value, consider combo packages that include the aquarium plus additional Ripley’s attractions:
Please note that prices are subject to change.
- Aquarium + 2 Attractions: Adults starting at $59.99
- Aquarium + 3 Attractions: Adults starting at $69.99
- Aquarium + 4 Attractions: Adults starting at $74.99
- Aquarium + 5 Attractions: Adults starting at $79.99
- Aquarium + 6 Attractions: Adults starting at $84.99
- Aquarium + 7 Attractions: Adults starting at $89.99
- Super Combo (Aquarium + 10 Attractions): Adults starting at $99.99
These packages allow you to explore multiple Ripley’s attractions at a discounted rate.
Annual Passes
- Aquarium Annual Pass:
- Adults: Starting at $99.99
- Children (ages 3–11): Starting at $59.99
- Benefits include unlimited admission to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies for 12 months from the date of purchase, plus discounts on merchandise and food at all Ripley’s attractions in Tennessee.
- Ripley’s Ultimate Fun Pass:
- Adults: Starting at $179.99
- Children (ages 3–11): Starting at $99.99
- This pass provides unlimited access to Ripley’s Aquarium and all Ripley’s attractions in Gatlinburg for 12 months, along with exclusive discounts on guest tickets, on-site purchases, and more.
For the most current information and to purchase tickets or passes, please visit the official Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies website.
Please note that prices and promotions are subject to change. It’s advisable to verify details on the official website before planning your visit.
What’s Inside Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is divided into multiple interactive exhibits, each designed to transport guests into different aquatic worlds.
Upper Level Attraction
Ocean Realm – An introduction to the wonders of the deep, showcasing colorful fish, unique coral formations, and exotic sea creatures.
Shark Lagoon – Walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and other incredible marine life swimming above and around you.
Tropical Rainforest – A vibrant exhibit featuring exotic freshwater species and Amazonian creatures.
Touch A-Ray Bay – A hands-on experience where you can interact with gentle stingrays and feel their skin as they glide past.
Lower Level Attractions
Coral Reef – A display of colored corals and tropical fish, bringing the magic of the ocean floor to life.
Gallery of the Seas – A collection of some of the ocean’s most unique and unusual creatures, including jellyfish and lionfish.
Stingray Bay – Watch stingrays glide effortlessly through the water, and even touch them for an up-close experience.
Discovery Center – A family-friendly interactive area where kids and adults alike can engage with touch tanks and hands-on marine activities.
Penguin Playhouse – One of the most popular exhibits, where you can observe penguins waddling, swimming, and playing in their specially designed habitat.
Daily Experiences & Educational Programming
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers engaging daily experiences that make every visit unique:
- Live Dive Shows – Witness professional divers interact with marine life while explaining facts about the creatures inside the exhibits.
- Animal Feedings – Get a front-row seat to see sharks, penguins, and stingrays during their feeding sessions.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours – Take an exclusive look at how the aquarium operates and learn about marine animal care, conservation efforts, and daily maintenance of exhibits.
For those looking for a deeper educational experience, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies provides school field trips, homeschool programs, and educational workshops that inspire curiosity about ocean life and conservation. To learn more about these experiences or to plan your visit, check out their official programs page.
Special Events & Group Visits
Ripley’s Aquarium is an incredible venue for birthday parties, school trips, corporate gatherings, and private events. Whether it’s a group of students exploring marine science or a family celebrating a special occasion, the aquarium offers customizable event packages to suit different needs.
Group Visits
Groups of 10 or more can enjoy discounted rates, making it an ideal destination for school trips, corporate outings, or family reunions. Advance reservations are required to secure these special rates
- Aquarium Only:
- Adults (12+): $7 off regular admission
- Children (2–11): $4 off regular admission
- U-PICK Combo:
- Adults (12+): $5 off
- Children (3–11): $3 off
For more details and to plan your group visit, please visit their Group Sales page.
Birthday Parties
Celebrate your child’s special day with an unforgettable underwater adventure. The Birthday Party Package includes:
- Admission to the aquarium for all party guests
- Private party room
- Cake, juice, and water
- Party plates and utensils
- Special gift and sign for the birthday child
- Party favors and decorations based on chosen theme: Mermaid, Ocean, Shark, Pirate, or Island
To learn more or book a birthday party, visit their Birthday Parties page.
Sleep with the Sharks
Experience the aquarium after dark with the Sleep with the Sharks overnight adventure. This program is available every night of the year for groups ranging from 10 to 120 participants, based on availability. The experience includes:
- Late-night snack
- Scavenger hunt
- Fun activity
- Aquarium admission
- Continental breakfast
- Animal encounter
Participants will sleep in the Shark Lagoon Tunnel, surrounded by marine life. To request a sleepover or for more information, visit their Sleep with the Sharks page
Sips and Sharks Sleepover
Designed for guests aged 21 and over, the Sips and Sharks Sleepover offers a unique overnight experience that includes:
- Appetizers
- Two complimentary drink tickets (cash bar also available)
- Behind-the-scenes tour
- Overnight stay in the Shark Lagoon Tunnel
- Hot breakfast
- Aquarium admission
- Animal encounter
Upcoming dates for this event include April 5, May 31, June 21, July 26, August 30, October 11, and November 29, 2025. Each event runs from 8:00 p.m. to 8:45 a.m. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit their Sips and Sharks Sleepover page
Scout Adventures
Tailored specifically for scout groups, the aquarium offers programs like Scout Appreciation Month, Sea Scouts, Sleep with the Sharks, and PJ Party with the Penguins. These experiences provide educational and entertaining activities that align with scouting values. For more information, visit their Scout Adventures page.
For a visual glimpse into the Sleep with the Sharks experience, check out this video:
Dining & Shopping at Ripley’s Aquarium
After an exciting day exploring marine life, refuel at the Feeding Frenzy Eatery, which offers a selection of kid-friendly meals, snacks, and beverages. Then, visit the Ripley’s Cargo Hold Gift Shop to pick up marine-themed souvenirs, plush toys, apparel, and unique collectibles to remember your trip.
Cabins Near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
If you’re planning a visit to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, why not stay just minutes away? Our luxury cabins, located only 10 minutes from the aquarium, offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. These cabins provide a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring Gatlinburg’s top attractions. Whether you’re visiting as a couple, family, or group, you’ll enjoy cozy amenities, stunning views, and easy access to the best the area has to offer.
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Get Your Tickets Today!
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience! Purchase your tickets in advance to get the best rates and avoid long lines.
Click here to buy your Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies tickets today and start planning your ultimate underwater adventure!
Whether you’re an ocean enthusiast, a family looking for an engaging activity, or a couple seeking a unique date experience, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers something for everyone. Plan your visit today and explore the incredible underwater world in the heart of the Smoky Mountains!
Nearby Attractions
Gatlinburg is packed with exciting attractions, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences. If you’re looking to explore more, check out these must-visit spots nearby:
- Anakeesta – Soar to the top of the mountain for treetop adventures, stunning views, and fun activities the whole family will love.
- Ober Mountain Adventure Park & Ski Area – Whether it’s skiing in the winter or mountain coasters in the summer, Ober Mountain has year-round fun for all ages.
- Gatlinburg SkyPark – Ride the SkyLift to the top of Crockett Mountain and experience breathtaking views from the SkyBridge, SkyDeck, and scenic SkyTrail.
- The Village Shops: An European-inspired shopping plaza filled with locally owned boutiques, coffee spots, and specialty stores just off the Parkway.
- Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community: Explore the nation’s largest group of independent artisans, offering handmade goods, studios, and galleries along an 8-mile scenic loop.
