The Smoky Mountains offer a plethora of activities that cater to families and children, making it a perfect destination for a family vacation. Here are eight kid-friendly activities in the Smokies, complete with detailed descriptions, features, and what you can do at each location.
1. Laurel Falls Trail
Laurel Falls Trail is a popular paved trail that leads to one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the Smokies. The trail is 2.6 miles round trip and relatively easy, making it suitable for young children. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by beautiful forest scenery and have opportunities to spot wildlife. The highlight of the hike is reaching Laurel Falls, an 80-foot waterfall divided into upper and lower sections by a walkway. This scenic trail is perfect for families looking for an accessible and enjoyable hike.
Activities: Hiking, nature photography, wildlife spotting.
Address: Laurel Falls Trailhead, Little River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone Number: (865) 436-1200 (Great Smoky Mountains National Park)
Did you know?
Laurel Falls is named after the mountain laurel, an evergreen shrub that blooms in May and June, adding to the beauty of the trail.
2. Cades Cove
Cades Cove is a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains, rich in history and wildlife. It's one of the most popular destinations in the Smokies. This scenic valley features an 11-mile one-way loop road that offers breathtaking views and access to historic buildings such as log cabins, churches, and a working grist mill. Visitors have ample opportunities to see white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and other wildlife. Several trails start in Cades Cove, including the easy Cades Cove Nature Trail, making it a versatile destination for both sightseeing and light hiking.
Activities: Wildlife viewing, picnicking, hiking, exploring historical sites, horseback riding (available at Cades Cove Riding Stables).
Address: Cades Cove Loop Rd, Townsend, TN 37882
Phone Number: (865) 448-2472 (Cades Cove Campground Office)
Did you know?
Cades Cove was once a thriving community, and many of the historic buildings you see today are preserved from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
3. Sugarlands Visitor Center
Sugarlands Visitor Center is a great starting point for any trip to the Smokies, offering educational exhibits and park information. The visitor center features interactive exhibits about the park’s natural and cultural history, providing a fun and informative experience for kids. There is a 20-minute film about the park shown in the auditorium, and the nearby Cataract Falls Trail offers an easy walk perfect for young children. Additionally, the center hosts ranger-led programs and events, making it an excellent place to learn about the park and plan your visit.
Activities: Learning about the park, attending ranger programs, short hikes.
Address: 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone Number: (865) 436-1200
Did you know?
The name "Sugarlands" comes from the abundance of sugar maple trees in the area.
4. Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont
The Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont is an environmental education center offering programs for families and children. The institute offers family camps and workshops that focus on nature and wildlife, providing hands-on activities such as stream studies, wildlife observation, and hiking. Comfortable accommodations are available for overnight programs, making it a great option for families looking to immerse themselves in nature education. The educational programs are designed to deepen the connection to the natural world, making learning fun and engaging for kids.
Activities: Educational programs, hands-on nature activities, family workshops.
Address: 9275 Tremont Rd, Townsend, TN 37882
Phone Number: (865) 448-6709
Website:https://gsmit.org/?s=Tremont
Did you know?
Tremont is named after the logging town that once existed in the area before the national park was established.
5. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a top-rated aquarium featuring a wide variety of marine life, perfect for a day of family fun. The aquarium boasts interactive exhibits such as the Penguin Playhouse and Shark Lagoon, where kids can get up close with fascinating marine animals. The glass-bottom boat ride offers a unique view of the marine life below, and Touch-a-Ray Bay allows kids to touch stingrays. Educational presentations and dive shows provide additional learning opportunities. The aquarium recently introduced a new exhibit featuring jellyfish, adding to the diverse array of marine life on display.
Activities: Exploring marine exhibits, interactive experiences, educational shows.
Address: 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone Number: (888) 430-8808
Did you know?
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies was voted the #1 aquarium in the United States by USA in 2019.
6. Dollywood
Dollywood is a family-friendly theme park founded by Dolly Parton, offering a mix of thrilling rides, shows, and activities for all ages. The park features thrilling roller coasters and rides suitable for all ages, as well as live entertainment including music shows, craft demonstrations, and seasonal festivals. The Wildwood Grove area is designed specifically for young children, with rides and play areas tailored to their needs. For hot summer days, Splash Country water park provides a refreshing escape. Dollywood also offers delicious southern cuisine and unique shopping experiences, making it a well-rounded destination for family fun.
Activities: Amusement rides, live shows, water park fun, dining, shopping.
Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone Number: (800) 365-5996
Website: Dollywood.com
Did you know?
Dollywood's Express Train is an authentic 110-ton coal-fired steam engine that takes guests on a scenic ride through the park.
7. Anakeesta
Anakeesta is a mountaintop adventure park with a variety of activities for the whole family, offering stunning views and exciting experiences. Visitors can enjoy a Chondola or Ridge Rambler ride to the summit, where stunning views await. The Treetop Skywalk features a series of suspension bridges through the forest canopy, offering a unique perspective of the surroundings. Duelling zipline adventures provide a thrilling experience, while the Treehouse Village Playground is perfect for younger children. Additional activities include gem mining and a mountain coaster, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Activities: Scenic rides, treetop walking, ziplining, playground fun, gem mining.
Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone Number: (865) 325-2400
Website: Anakeesta.com
Did you know?
The name "Anakeesta" is a Cherokee word meaning "place of the balsams" or "place of high ground."
8. Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Smokies, offering panoramic views from its observation tower, a must-see for visitors. The attraction features a steep but short (0.5 miles) paved trail leading to the observation tower. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome offers the highest peak and best views in the park, with visibility extending over 100 miles on clear days. The area is also known for its unique high-elevation spruce-fir forest, providing a distinct natural environment to explore. The views from the observation tower are truly breathtaking and worth the hike.
Activities: Hiking to the observation tower, enjoying panoramic views, nature photography.
Address: Clingmans Dome Road Cherokee, NC 28719
Phone Number: (865) 436-1200 (Great Smoky Mountains National Park)
Did you know?
Clingmans Dome is the highest point in Tennessee and the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi River.
Which kid-friendly activity in the Smoky Mountains are you most excited to try with your family?
Laurel Trail
Cades Cove
Great Smoky Mountain Institute at Tremont
Sugarlands Visitor Center
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