Top 10 Must-Visit Animal Attractions Near Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
If you love animals, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer some of the best attractions where you can get up close with wildlife, learn about conservation, and enjoy unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, these destinations provide a perfect mix of fun and education. I’ve put together a list of the top 10 animal attractions in this area that you won’t want to miss.
In the Smoky Mountains, wildlife can be anywhere at any time...
1. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
This aquarium in Gatlinburg is a must-see for animal lovers. It features thousands of sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and colorful tropical fish. The underwater tunnel lets you walk surrounded by marine life, creating an immersive experience. Kids and adults alike enjoy the interactive exhibits and daily dive shows.
2. Wild Elk in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Usually, you will need to drive over toward the Cherokee side of the park to see elk walking around, just minding their own business and enjoying their day. It's about 30 miles from Gatlinburg, on Newfound Gap Road, where you will see wild elk during certain times of the day, wandering around the roadsides. Please never feed them or approach them, as it is illegal and dangerous.
3. Wildlife Encounter at Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is more than a ski resort. It has a wildlife encounter area where you can see native animals like otters, birds of prey, bobcats, foxes, racoons, snakes, eagles and black bears. The staff provides educational talks that explain the animals’ habits and habitats, making it a great stop for families. Most of the animals are not able to be released into the wild for different reasons, therefore they are taken care of, and live a relaxing life at Ober.
4. Parrot Mountain and Gardens
This colorful attraction, near Dollywood, in Pigeon Forge is home to hundreds of exotic parrots and tropical birds. You can walk through lush gardens and watch the birds fly freely. The knowledgeable, friendly staff encourages visitors to interact with the parrots, making it a lively and memorable experience.
5. Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo
If you want to get hands-on, this petting zoo in Sevierville, offers the chance to feed and pet deer, llamas, and other exotic animals. It’s a relaxed setting where kids can learn about animal care and behavior. They also offer horseback riding.
6. Skyland Ranch
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7. RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo
Did you know the Smoky Mountains are technically considered a rainforest? Located right off the strip in Pigeon Forge, this zoo features exotic animals like lemurs, reptiles, and tropical birds. It’s smaller than some other attractions but offers close-up views and educational talks that highlight conservation efforts.
8. American Eagle Foundation, Kodak
510 Kodak Road, Kodak, (Sevierville) TN.
This is a 57-acre, non-profit wildlife organization with the nation's largest bald eagle sanctuary and also - the Wings of America Show located at Dollywood!
Open to the public for tours in Kodak, TN. Enjoy walking trails, aviaries, a museum, gardens, exhibits, classrooms and an interactive play area. Presently guided tours can be reserved online, but self-guided tours do not require a reservation.
9.) Sugarland Riding Stables
Beginners welcome! Western style riding. All rides by professional, experienced guides, with about 9 riders per group. Anyone who cannot ride, is welcomed at the sister riding stables in Cades Cove, where they also have hay wagon rides and carriage rides through the Smoky Mountains!
10. Roaring Fork Motor Trail, Cades Cove and Hiking Trails
Roaring Fork and Cades Cove are both scenic driving loops where you will see waterfalls and abundant wildlife such as deer, wild ducks, herons, birds, butterflies, fish, otters, gophers, squirrels, and black bears.
Also, check out the Pigeon Forge Riverwalk Greenway, (Ducks, herons, groundhogs, squirrels) which is excellent for kids or a quick stop off before or after a visit to The Island in Pigeon Forge.
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