Category: Downtown Activities

In the winter of 1953, local Gatlinburg innkeeper Rel Maples, inspired by an article in AAA magazine showcasing Everett Kircher's chairlift expertise from his ski ventures in Michigan, reached out to him. The request was simple in theory yet incredibly complex from a logistical standpoint: build a chairlift on the mountain behind his property. ...

It's easy to walk through downtown Gatlinburg and shy away from the bright lights and oddities the Ripley's family of attractions touts. Are they really as interesting as they claim to be, or are they just a money-making gimmick? After a recent excursion with my children to several Ripley's properties, I can now confidently answer that question as an informed and experienced parent: Ripley's attractions are a total blast! This is something you should add to your Gatlinburg itinerary. ...

Our staff had SO MUCH FUN last Friday night rolling through town on our custom Mountain Laurel Chalets float! The 47th annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas parade was one for the books, and this year the city of Gatlinburg awarded us 3rd place for "Best Original Float Design." Our awesome maintenance team worked extra-late hours to build our float from scratch, and it turned out beautifully. ...

Did you know that Ripley’s of the Aquarium of the Smokies was voted the #1 Aquarium in all of the United States? Here are just a few reasons why: ...

Hillbilly Golf. What a strange combination… …a strange combination that’s a whole lot of fun! With so many mini-golf options available in the area, it can be hard to chose which one to try. But those who are looking for a truly unique way to... ...

With over 10,000 sea creatures comprising more than 350 individual species, it’s obvious why Ripley’s Aquarium is one of the best. ...

Have a craving for something sweet? A walk through downtown Gatlinburg is like taking a stroll through Candy Land. The Parkway is lined with candy stores, fudge and ice cream shops just waiting to satisfy your sweet tooth. What makes Gatlinburg’s sweet shops especially tasty is... ...

Downtown Gatlinburg is home to some of the most exciting and interactive attractions. There is so much to see while strolling down the parkway that even with just a blink of an eye you could miss something interesting. Tucked away on the parkway is a... ...