Hotels near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Gatlinburg

Immerse Yourself in Nature's Underwater Adventure at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Dive into adventure at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where the wonders of the underwater world come to life! Nestled at the foot of the majestic Smoky Mountains, this family-friendly destination boasts a breathtaking array of marine life, from playful penguins to mesmerizing jellyfish. Stroll through immersive exhibits, including the stunning Shark Lagoon, and get up close with fascinating creatures during interactive experiences. Just a stone's throw from downtown Gatlinburg, this aquarium is the perfect blend of natural beauty and engaging education, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and families alike. For our best hotel rates near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

When visiting Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, you'll find a range of hotel accommodations in Gatlinburg, from cozy inns to comfortable star-rated hotels. Many options are conveniently located near the aquarium, offering friendly service and easy access to local attractions, making your stay enjoyable and hassle-free. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies:

1. Margaritaville Resort GatlinburgOpens in a new window: This charming 4.0-star hotel is a fantastic choice for leisure travelers seeking a rejuvenating spa vacation experience. With a full-service spa offering steam rooms, a pool, and indulgent treatments like manicures, pedicures, and Swedish massages, guests find themselves enveloped in relaxation. The hotel's spacious and comfortable rooms, complemented by a private balcony with stunning views, provide a delightful retreat. Located in the vibrant heart of Gatlinburg, everything you desire is just a short walk away, making it a perfect base for exploring the city. Review sentiments consistently highlight the fun atmosphere, friendly staff, and exceptional cleanliness, ensuring a memorable stay.
2. River Terrace Resort & Convention CenterOpens in a new window: This inviting 3.5-star resort is tailored for travelers who appreciate a pet-friendly environment amidst the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains. The hotel boasts a prime location, offering easy access to local shops and attractions, making it ideal for those looking to explore. Guests rave about the charming ambiance and attentive customer service, creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. The hotel’s vintage character, enhanced by thoughtful renovations, adds to its unique charm. Review sentiments emphasize the great value and delightful experiences, ensuring a pleasant stay for travelers seeking both comfort and convenience.
3. The Park Vista - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - GatlinburgOpens in a new window: This elegant 4.0-star hotel caters to adventure seekers and leisure travelers looking for a captivating getaway. With an array of activities including hiking, biking, and rafting nearby, guests can immerse themselves in the great outdoors. The hotel features cozy accommodations with breathtaking mountain views, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. An inviting pool area and family-friendly amenities enhance the overall experience. Review sentiments highlight the stunning vistas, cleanliness, and memorable experiences, positioning this hotel as a top choice for those desiring a blend of adventure and comfort in a picturesque setting.

Things to do near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies offers an exciting exploration of aquatic life amidst the stunning backdrop of the Smoky Mountains. Visitors can marvel at vibrant marine ecosystems while enjoying the fresh mountain air and nearby natural wonders. This unique blend of education and adventure makes it a must-visit for families and nature lovers alike.

• AnakeestaOpens in a new window – Dive into a world of fun at Anakeesta, a vibrant theme park nestled in the Smoky Mountains. Explore treetop canopy walks, zip lines, and beautiful gardens while soaking in stunning mountain views. Don’t miss the chance to relax at the various dining spots or enjoy seasonal festivals that bring the park to life!
• Island at Pigeon ForgeOpens in a new window – A lively tourist precinct, the Island at Pigeon Forge offers a delightful mix of shops, eateries, and attractions. Stroll through the charming pathways, take a spin on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for breathtaking views, or unwind by the fountains during a lively show. This is a perfect spot for family fun and entertainment.
• Gatlinburg Space NeedleOpens in a new window – Ascend to new heights at the Gatlinburg Space Needle! This modern tower gives you an impressive 360-degree view of the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the observation deck, and don’t forget to take a photo with the iconic tower as your backdrop!
• Ripley's Believe It Or Not MuseumOpens in a new window – Prepare for a journey through the weird and wonderful at Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum. Explore bizarre exhibits featuring oddities and oddball artifacts that will spark your curiosity. It’s an entertaining experience for visitors of all ages, filled with surprises at every turn!
• Ober Gatlinburg Aerial TramwayOpens in a new window – Elevate your sightseeing with a ride on the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway. Glide high above the landscape and marvel at the picturesque views of the mountains and valleys. Once you reach the top, enjoy year-round activities, whether it’s skiing in winter or mountain coasters in summer!

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is between January and March, when hotel prices are typically lower. For a budget-friendly trip, staying at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the nearby landmarks, cultural sites, and natural attractions. During your visit, you can explore scenic mountains, picturesque rivers, and intriguing museums that highlight the region's rich history and culture. This approach ensures a great value for your money while enjoying all that the Smokies have to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies on Hotels.com, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may find discounted rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, you can utilize the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool in the app to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you’re among the first to know if room availability changes or prices drop for your ideal stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. If you're interested in unique accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend more affordable dates, which could help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near key attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more budget-friendly options, you might want to look at hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, where you can find a balance between cost and accessibility to the sights you plan to explore. Independent hotels located a bit further out are usually more likely to be affordable and can offer a more authentic experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 35.2°F (1.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.8°F (23.2°C). December is usually the wettest month. March, June, and July are the peak travel months at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.