Ripley’s museums can be found all over the country — from Ripley’s Believe It or Not Orlando to Branson — but Gatlinburg’s version has its own mountain-town twist. This odditorium (yes, that’s what they call it) features over 500 exhibits, including shrunken heads, optical illusions, and unbelievable stories from around the world.
Getting There: Hours, Directions & Parking
Hours of Operation
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Gatlinburg is open daily for extended hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the odd and extraordinary.
Current Hours: Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight)
Whether you’re planning a morning adventure or a late-night visit, Ripley’s offers flexible hours to fit your schedule.
Tip: Arrive earlier in the day or later in the evening to avoid peak crowds—especially on weekends.
Planning Your Visit?
Check the latest hours before you go—Ripley’s is open late, so you can explore on your own schedule. View Current Hours
Directions
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Gatlinburg is located at 800 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, right in the center of downtown. It’s an easy stop if you’re already walking the Gatlinburg Strip, and convenient whether you’re staying nearby or visiting from Pigeon Forge.
From I‑40:
Take Exit 407 and follow TN-66 S/US-441 toward Gatlinburg. Stay on the Parkway into downtown.
From Pigeon Forge:
Take the Parkway (US-441 S) straight into Gatlinburg. Ripley’s will be on your right side downtown.
Where to Park
Paid Parking Garages Nearby:
- Aquarium Parking Garage (Greystone Heights Rd): $10/day
- McMahan Parkway Garage (at Traffic Light #3): $10/day
Both are within a short 2–3 minute walk to Ripley’s and are good options for downtown access.
- 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.
Private Parking Lots:
There are several private lots scattered around downtown. Rates usually range from $5 to $20 depending on the day and season.
Accessibility Information
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Gatlinburg is committed to making its attraction enjoyable and accessible for all visitors. The building features ramps, elevators, and wide corridors to help guests with mobility challenges navigate the space comfortably. Restrooms are also accessible, equipped with handrails and grab bars.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Most exhibits at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! are wheelchair accessible. However, some attractions—such as Ripley’s Mountain Coaster, Super Fun Park, and Super Fun Zone—are not ADA accessible due to the nature of the rides.
Service Animals
Guests with disabilities may bring ADA-recognized service animals inside the museum, including guide dogs and working service dogs in training. Pets and emotional support animals are not allowed inside the attraction.
Tickets, Promotions and Discounts
Ticket Prices (as of June 2025)
General admission for Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Gatlinburg is currently priced at:
- Adults (12+): $29.99
- Children (ages 6–11): $16.99
- Children (ages 2–5): $4.99
- Children under 2: Free with a paid adult
Combo Tickets
- Ripley’s offers “U-Pick” combos directly on their website. You can pair tickets to the Aquarium with any number of other attractions—including the Gatlinburg Believe It or Not Odditorium—for built-in savings (up to $54 per person and more depending on how many you include) – click here to buy.
- Ripley’s often promotes combo ticket pricing on its official site, featuring tiered pricing:
- Aquarium + 2 attractions: starting at $59.99, saving approx. $27
- Aquarium + 3 attractions: $69.99 (save $34)
- Aquarium + 4 attractions: $74.99 (save $44)
These deals are active year-round on Ripley’s Gatlinburg site and tickets remain valid for a full year after purchase. click here to buy.
Groups and Special Events
Planning a group outing in Gatlinburg? Ripley’s Believe It or Not! offers custom experiences for school trips, corporate events, and large groups looking for something unique.
School Groups
This isn’t your average field trip. Students get to explore scientific oddities, rare artifacts, and cultural exhibits from around the world. It’s educational, hands-on, and unforgettable.
Corporate Gatherings
Looking to shake up your next team outing or creative session? Ripley’s offers a fun, inspiring environment with enough oddities to spark fresh thinking and team bonding.
Group Discounts
Groups of 10 or more paying guests can receive special discounted rates. Advance reservations are required, and bookings can be made by phone, email, or by filling out a simple online form.
Policies to Know
A 6.5% tax is added to group pricing. If you’re booking from Florida and represent a school, church, or government entity, you may be eligible for a tax exemption with valid documentation.
Click here to learn more about Group and Events at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
What’s Inside Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Get ready to explore the unbelievable. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Gatlinburg is filled with hands-on exhibits, rare artifacts, and strange-but-true stories from around the world. Here’s a peek at a few featured experiences:
Feel Far Out
Touch a real meteorite, explore a piece of Mars, and learn what it’s like to work in space using gloves designed for vacuum chambers. A must-see for space lovers and curious minds.
Hike the Smokies
Step into a replica of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park—without the hike. This section features interactive maps, geological oddities, and exhibits like a wooly mammoth leg and Eunice, the one-horned unicorn deer.
Enter the Jungle
Meet Ripley’s legendary shrunken heads and discover over 100 preserved tsantsas—authentic tribal artifacts that leave an impression you won’t forget.
Measure Up
Stand next to Robert Wadlow, the world’s tallest man at 8 feet 11 inches. Compare your height and learn about the world’s most extreme human records.
Sideshow Curioddities
Step right up—something unbelievable is happening. This rotating feature highlights the bizarre, the spectacular, and the just plain strange. Expect unusual characters, sideshow artifacts, and stories that challenge belief.
Dear Mr. Ripley
For a limited time, explore the fascinating life of Robert Ripley himself. At the peak of his fame, he received more fan mail than anyone in the world—averaging 3,000 letters a day for over 20 years. This exhibit dives into his legacy and the impact of his curiosity-driven career.
Don’t Miss the Ripley’s Arcade
Located right next to the Odditorium, Ripley’s Super Fun Zone Arcade is packed with modern and classic games—from air hockey and racing simulators to claw machines and ticket prizes. It’s a great add-on for families or groups looking to extend the fun after the museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
Planning your visit to Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Gatlinburg? Here are a few important details to make your experience smooth and stress-free.
Accepted Payment Methods
Ripley’s accepts cash, debit, and all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.
Military, First Responder, and AAA Discounts
- Military and First Responders receive 30% off single attraction tickets and 15% off U-Pick combos, good for up to four guests (in-person only with valid ID).
- AAA members receive $1 off adult and child tickets.
- Seniors also get $1 off standard admission (not valid on combo tickets or special events).
These offers must be mentioned in person at the ticket counter and cannot be used online.
Do I Need to Print My Tickets?
No—your confirmation email includes a mobile ticket you can scan right from your phone.
Health and Safety Measures
Ripley’s follows rigorous sanitation procedures, including:
- Ongoing disinfection of high-touch areas
- Trained staff using protective cleaning gear
- Daily cleaning of restrooms, surfaces, and common areas
- Clear protocols for illness or spill response
Guests may wear a mask if preferred, and Ripley’s follows current public health guidelines.
Get Your Tickets Today
Ready to see the unbelievable up close? Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Gatlinburg is open year-round and perfect for families, friends, and curious minds of all ages. Whether you’re coming for the shrunken heads, space gear, or just to say “believe it or not,” it’s an experience you won’t forget.
General admission starts at just $29.99 for adults (as of June 2025), with discounted tickets for children and group bundles available at the gate.
Skip the line and secure your spot online today.
Cabins Near Ripley's Believe or Not
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