If you’re heading to the Great Smoky Mountains with little adventurers in tow, you’re in luck. The Smokies are packed with fun for kids of all ages—whether they’re wild about wildlife, obsessed with trains, or just looking for a good splash. Here are the top kid-friendly things to do in the Smokies that will turn your vacation into an unforgettable family adventure.

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1. Ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

All aboard! This scenic train ride is a hit with kids and adults alike. Choose a themed ride like the Polar Express (seasonal) or go for a classic excursion through the mountains. It’s one of the most unique kid-friendly things to do in the Smokies.

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2. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Yes, the park itself is super family-friendly! Try easy, stroller-friendly trails like the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail or Laurel Falls. Keep your eyes peeled for salamanders, birds, and even black bears from a safe distance.

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3. Go Wild at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg

This mountaintop adventure park has everything from treetop skywalks and ziplines to gem mining and playgrounds. Bonus: Their Rail Runner mountain coaster is a must for brave kiddos (and grown-ups!).

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4. Visit Ripley’s Attractions

From Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies (with touch tanks and underwater tunnels!) to the Believe It or Not! Odditorium, Ripley’s in Gatlinburg is a go-to for rainy days and curious minds.

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5. Spend a Day at Dollywood

Let’s be honest—it’s not a trip to the Smokies without Dollywood. The park has rides for all ages, live shows, and a water park next door. It’s one of the biggest and best kid-friendly things to do in the Smokies—plan a full day here, if not two.

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6. Go Horseback Riding or Try a Petting Zoo

Local stables offer safe and scenic horseback rides, even for young beginners. Or check out Smoky Mountain Deer Farm & Exotic Petting Zoo, where kids can feed goats, kangaroos, and even a zebra!

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7. Sweet Treat Stops

Nothing fuels a mountain adventure like ice cream. Make a stop at Mad Dog’s Creamery or The Old Mill Creamery in Pigeon Forge—both crowd-pleasers.

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8. Mini Golf & Go-Karts Galore

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are dotted with kid-friendly entertainment like mini golf, arcades, and go-karts. Check out The Track, Crave Golf Club, or Lazerport Fun Center for a break from nature trails.

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9. Pack a Picnic & Play

Sometimes, the best memories come from the simplest moments. Pack a picnic and stop at Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area or Greenbrier—both have shallow creeks, rocks to climb, and space to run wild.

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Where to Stay

After a full day of family fun, you’ll want a place to relax and recharge. Our Smoky Mountains vacation rental is perfect for families—cozy, spacious, and fully equipped with the essentials (including a washer and dryer for all those muddy socks!). Centrally located, you’ll have easy access to all these kid-friendly things to do in the Smokies.

✨ Book your stay now and make magical family memories in the mountains!
Smoky Mountains Vacation Rentals