Top 3 Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN For Animal Lovers

If you are hoping to see some animals during your Gatlinburg vacation, you are in luck! There are several fun destinations near our Gatlinburg condos where you can visit with an adorable black bear family, view some of the world’s most fascinating sea creatures, and maybe even spot some wildlife in their natural habitat! Here are the top 3 things to do in Gatlinburg TN for animal lovers:

1. Experience Ober Mountain’s Wildlife Habitat

One of the top things to do in Gatlinburg TN for animal lovers is the Wildlife Habitat at Ober Mountain! This unique, privately funded zoo allows you to get up close to some of the area’s native wildlife in a safe environment, so be sure to bring your camera along to capture some incredible photos! During your visit, you will have the opportunity to see a black bear family, river otters, bobcats, birds of prey, and more! Don’t miss the Nocturnal House where you can find various species of Smokies wildlife, including raccoons, skunks, flying squirrels, turtles, and snakes!

2. Explore Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a massive aquarium facility with 2 levels of exhibits to explore, including the Touch-A-Ray Bay where you can actually touch the rays! One of the highlights is the Shark Lagoon, where you travel along the ocean floor on a 340-foot-long glidepath! During your journey through this breathtaking tunnel, you will have the chance to see sharks, tarpons, sea turtles, giant stingrays, sawfish, and more! As if that doesn’t sound cool enough, just wait until you see the Penguin Playhouse! As one of the world’s best penguin exhibits, this indoor and outdoor habitat is the perfect place to see these curious creatures in action!

3. Hike Through Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Another one of the top things to do in Gatlinburg TN for animal lovers is visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! After all, there is nothing quite like the excitement of seeing wildlife in their natural habitat! The park is the protected home of 65 species of mammals, over 200 varieties of birds, 67 native fish species, and more than 80 types of reptiles and amphibians! Keep your eyes peeled for the American black bear, who is certainly the most famous resident of the park! Since some sections of the park may be difficult for wildlife viewing due to the dense forests, head to open areas like Cades Cove for the best viewing opportunities!

Where to Stay

Stay close to these things to do in Gatlinburg TN with a vacation at our condos in downtown Gatlinburg! Our 2 and 3 bedroom condo units have all the comforts and amenities you need for a fabulous Smoky Mountain vacation, including fully equipped kitchens, private balconies, fireplaces, and a refreshing outdoor swimming pool to enjoy during the summer months! The best part is that our condos are walking distance to all of the popular destinations in downtown Gatlinburg, so tons of shops, restaurants, and attractions are just steps away!

Check out all of our condos in downtown Gatlinburg today to stay just minutes away from these amazing things to do in Gatlinburg TN! We look forward to welcoming you to the Smoky Mountains!