7 Educational Activities For Kids In Gatlinburg

Hey, parents! Do you want to plan a trip that is not only fun but also educational for your kids? Look no further than Gatlinburg! Located in the heartland of the Great Smoky Mountains, this picturesque town provides kids with a wide range of educational activities. Whether your children are interested in science, history, or nature, they will find something that sparks their curiosity. Let’s explore the educational wonders to see for kids in Gatlinburg together:

1. The Sugarlands Visitor Center

The Sugarlands Visitor Center is a fantastic spot for kids in Gatlinburg to learn about the natural beauty and wildlife of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Kids can explore interactive visitor center exhibits showcasing the park’s history and ecology. They may even chat with rangers who will answer any questions they might have about the park, its inhabitants, and conservation efforts.

Educational programs hosted by the park are a highlight for families visiting the visitor center. From guided walks and wildlife presentations to storytelling and discussions of the park’s cultural and natural heritage, they will educate you about several topics.

If you are on a short trip, be sure to find a cabin rental near this attraction to cut down on travel and make the most of your limited time. Fortunately, you can find a suitable cabin in Gatlinburg TN, at a convenient location. Whether you need a cabin with single or multiple bedrooms, you will get exactly what you want.

2. Hollywood Star Cars Museum

If your kids are into cars and movies, the Hollywood Star Cars Museum is a must-visit spot in Gatlinburg! The museum houses an outstanding collection of popular vehicles from some of the most celebrated Hollywood movies of all time.

As soon as you walk through the doors, you will be greeted by the likes of the 1966 Batmobile and the iconic red and white General Lee from the Dukes of Hazzard.  Your kids can also get up close and personal with other famous vehicles like the Ecto-1 from Ghostbusters and Lightning McQueen from Cars.

But the Hollywood Star Cars Museum is not just about admiring cars from the big screen. You can learn about the history of each vehicle and how it was used in the movie. Rest assured; your children will discover interesting facts and behind-the-scenes stories that they may not have known before.

3. Gatlinburg Heritage Museum

Are your kids into history? If so, you will not want to miss the Gatlinburg Heritage Museum. This intriguing museum gives visitors a glimpse into the city’s and its surrounding area’s rich history. The exhibits cover everything from the Native American settlements in the area to the arrival of the first European settlers and the town’s development over time.

Your children will have a blast learning about the famous residents of Gatlinburg over the years, including artists, musicians, and other prominent figures. One of the highlights of the Gatlinburg Heritage Museum is the Civil War exhibit. It provides an intriguing perspective on the region’s involvement in the battle.  

4. Ripley’s Aquarium Of The Smokies

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a magical undersea adventure that will leave kids (and adults!) fascinated and inspired by the ocean’s wonders. The aquarium boasts over 10,000 exotic sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles.

Get ready to take your love of penguins to the next level with the amazing Penguin Encounter at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. This is the perfect opportunity for kids and adults alike to get up close and personal with some of the animal kingdom’s cutest and most fascinating creatures. During the encounter, expert penguin handlers will teach you and your family all about these adorable birds, from their unique behaviors and characteristics to the amazing ways they adapt to their environments.

But perhaps the most exciting experience at Ripley’s Aquarium is the Shark Lagoon. Here kids may walk through an underwater tunnel and watch as sharks and other sea creatures swim right over their heads!

5. Gatlinburg Space Needle

If your kids are fascinated by space, visiting the Gatlinburg Space Needle is a must. The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a towering structure that offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. Your kids will love taking in the sights from high above the treetops, and you will appreciate the opportunity to relax and soak in the area’s natural beauty. But the fun does not stop there.

Once you reach the top, your kids will have the opportunity to explore a range of exhibits that focus on space exploration and science. One of the most popular exhibits is the interactive space shuttle simulator. It enables kids to experience what it is like to launch into space and land back on Earth. They will also learn about the history of space travel and the technology used to explore the final frontier.

6. Gem Mine At Anakeesta

This is not your run-of-the-mill digging expedition. Instead, the Gem Mine at Anakeesta gives you a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn about geology. Your excitement will grow as you approach the old-fashioned mining facilities and the bright diamonds gleaming in the sunlight.

Your family will be given all the tools they need to start their quest for precious stones. During the process of sifting through the dirt and rocks, your children will experience the true joy of discovery.

However, what makes this gem mining experience truly special is the educational aspect. The Gem Mine at Anakeesta offers a range of interactive displays that will teach your kids about geology and the science behind gemstones in a fun and engaging way. They will learn how rocks and minerals are formed, the differences between various types of gemstones, and how they are mined and refined for use in jewelry and other items.

7. Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community

Exploring this eight-mile loop is an amazing opportunity to expose your kids to the world of art and craftsmanship, all while supporting local artists and small businesses. Walking the loop, you will come across over a hundred artists and craftspeople selling everything from pottery and quilts to wood carvings and jewelry.

Your kids will be mesmerized as they watch these skilled artisans at work, using traditional techniques and methods that have been passed down through generations. They can try their hand at pottery, learn the art of quilting, or watch as woodcarvers transform a block of wood into a beautiful piece of art. Apart from educating kids, it is a great place to spark their imaginations.

Conclusion

Who said learning cannot be fun, especially during a vacation? With Gatlinburg as your travel destination, you can ensure your kids have an intellectually stimulating trip full of exciting activities. From exploring museums to historic sites, there is no shortage of educational experiences that will keep your kids engaged and entertained. So pack your bags, get ready to learn, and most importantly, have fun!