Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
SIDNEY JAMES MOUNTAIN LODGE · GATLINBURG

Gatlinburg Attractions

Getting around

The Best Gatlinburg Attractions and Fun Things to Do for Families.

Our Gatlinburg hotel is a short walk or drive away from so many exciting things to do in the area.

When you stay with us, you can walk, drive, or take the Gatlinburg trolley to anywhere you want to go. We’re close to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Ober Mountain’s Aerial Tramway, Mellow Mushroom, and more. To help you learn more about the fun things to do in Gatlinburg with your family, we’ve made a list of some of the can’t-miss attractions.

  • Ober Mountain

    Welcome to the scenic and exciting four-seasons world of Ober Mountain — a mountaintop amusement park in Gatlinburg! Ride the Aerial Tramway to the top, where a world of fun and excitement is waiting for you.

    Visit website: Ober Mountain (opens in a new tab)
  • Dollywood

    Are you ready for a special adventure with your family? Dollywood is one of the most popular family vacation destinations in the country. From thrilling and family-friendly rides to delicious restaurants, you can do it all at Dollywood.

    Visit website: Dollywood (opens in a new tab)
  • Ripley’s Aquarium in the Smokies

    This Gatlinburg aquarium is one of the most popular aquariums in the country. You can watch sharks, fish, stingrays, and more swim right above your head! Plus, there are various interactive experiences for you to enjoy as well.

    Visit website: Ripley’s Aquarium in the Smokies (opens in a new tab)
  • Dolly Parton’s Stampede

    Dolly Parton’s Stampede is a fun-filled, action-packed dinner show with incredible special effects, amazing stunts, and a four-course meal that everyone will love.

    Visit website: Dolly Parton’s Stampede (opens in a new tab)
  • High Country Adventures

    Join us on the Ocoee River for the adventure of a lifetime. Experience everything from Class I to Class V rapids that will get your heart pumping. It’s a memorable adventure for families and large groups.

    Visit website: High Country Adventures (opens in a new tab)
  • Dollywood’s Splash Country

    Dollywood’s Splash Country is the place to be in the summer! This water park combines the beauty of the Smoky Mountains with the excitement of water rides, slides, and attractions guaranteed to cool you off on a hot summer day.

    Visit website: Dollywood’s Splash Country (opens in a new tab)
  • Gatlinburg Space Needle

    This 407-foot observation tower offers some of the best views in downtown Gatlinburg. Ride the glass elevator to the top, where you’ll have a 360-degree-view of Gatlinburg and can learn more about the city’s history.

    Visit website: Gatlinburg Space Needle (opens in a new tab)
FIND THEM ON THE MAP

See where everything is.

Tap an attraction to see how far it is from the lodge.

Loading map…

More area guides