When planning a family vacation to the Smoky Mountains, finding activities that will keep your kids entertained and engaged is crucial. The Smoky Mountains offer more than just stunning natural beauty; they are home to unique attractions that you can’t find anywhere else. From thrilling rides to historical sites, these attractions are designed to captivate the imaginations of children and adults alike. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top Smoky Mountain attractions that your kids will absolutely love. These experiences go beyond the ordinary, providing your family with memories that will last a lifetime.
Let’s take a look at some of the most kid-friendly experiences that your family will love:
1. Go tubing down Tennessee’s longest Tubing Hill
One of the most thrilling experiences in Pigeon Forge is the tubing hill at Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark. Imagine your kids’ faces lighting up as they zoom down the 500-foot lanes, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. What makes this attraction even more exciting is the fact that it’s the longest and fastest tubing hill in Tennessee. Open year-round, Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark offers both winter and summer tubing, making it a versatile attraction no matter when you visit.
The tubing hill isn’t just a hit with kids; it’s an experience the whole family can enjoy together. The highlight of the ride is the 70-foot drop at the end, which is sure to give everyone that exhilarating stomach-flipping sensation. Whether your kids are seasoned adventurers or trying tubing for the first time, this attraction promises to be a highlight of your trip.
2. Interactive Fun on the Alpine Glider Ride
The Ski Lift Shootout at Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark is one of the most popular Smoky Mountain tourist attractions. This isn’t just any alpine coaster; it’s an interactive experience that combines the thrill of a ride with the excitement of a game. As you glide down the track in a two-seater glider, you and your partner can use laser guns to shoot at targets along the way.
The ride dips and swings through the trees, offering spectacular views of the Smoky Mountains while keeping your kids engaged with the challenge of hitting as many targets as possible. It’s a perfect way to add a little friendly competition to your vacation, and your kids will love the chance to test their shooting skills in this unique setting.
3. Climb to New Heights at Clingmans Dome
For families who love the great outdoors, a visit to Clingmans Dome is a must. Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering panoramic views that are simply breathtaking. The adventure begins with a steep 1-mile walk to the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower. While the hike is challenging, especially for younger kids, it’s paved and well-maintained, with benches along the way for resting.
Once at the top, your family will be rewarded with 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains that stretch as far as the eye can see. On a fine day, you’ll enjoy amazing views that stretch almost 100 miles in all directions. The Clingmans Dome area also features several trailheads, including those for Andrews Bald and the Appalachian Trail, making it a great starting point for further exploration. The experience of reaching the highest point in the Smokies and taking in the vast, uninterrupted views is something your kids will remember for years to come.
4. The Wild Stallion Mountain Coaster Adventure
If your kids are fans of roller coasters, they’ll be thrilled by the Wild Stallion Mountain Coaster at SkyLand Ranch in Sevierville. This isn’t your typical roller coaster; it’s an 8-minute-long adventure that takes you through the breathtaking scenery of the Smoky Mountains. The coaster winds its way through the trees, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape while delivering plenty of twists, turns, and drops.
One of the unique features of the Wild Stallion Mountain Coaster is that you can experience it both during the day and at night. The latter is a rather unique experience, with the illuminated mountains and Parkway, conjuring up an atmosphere of enchantment. Your kids will love the thrill of the ride combined with the beautiful views, making it a highlight of your Smoky Mountain vacation.
5. Explore the Eerie Elkmont Ghost Town
For a mix of history and mystery, take your kids to explore the Elkmont Ghost Town in the Smoky Mountains. This hidden gem offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, with remnants of an old resort town that was once bustling with activity. Today, Elkmont is a ghost town, with abandoned cabins and structures that have been left to the elements. The eerie atmosphere of the ghost town is intriguing, especially for older kids who are fascinated by history and the supernatural.
As you explore Elkmont, you’ll come across nearly 20 structures that have been preserved and restored, including the Levi Trentham cabin, one of the oldest buildings in the Smokies. The area is particularly beautiful in the spring and summer, with wildflowers blooming and streams bubbling through the lush landscape. The combination of history, nature, and a touch of spookiness makes Elkmont a unique and unforgettable experience for your family. It’s a chance to step back in time and explore a side of the Smoky Mountains that few visitors get to see.
The Smoky Mountains are more than just a beautiful natural destination; they are home to a variety of unique attractions that will captivate and entertain your kids. From the thrill of racing down the longest tubing hill in Tennessee to the eerie exploration of Elkmont Ghost Town, these experiences offer something for every type of adventurer. Whether your family prefers high-energy rides or quieter, more contemplative activities, the Smoky Mountains have something to offer.
These attractions provide a perfect blend of excitement, education, and natural beauty, ensuring that your family vacation will be filled with unforgettable moments. So, as you plan your trip to the Smoky Mountains, be sure to include these unique experiences on your itinerary. Your kids will love the adventure, and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.
