Gatlinburg, Tennessee is home to a menagerie of creatures great and small. Here you’ll find cuddly mammals, exotic reptiles, beasts of burden, and birds of prey. You can seek out the ordinary and the extraordinary both in the wild and in captivity. Below is just a sampling of what you can see while on your next Gatlinburg safari.
Horses
Gatlinburg is an equestrian’s dream come true. With miles of mountain trails and literally hundreds of equines available to ride, you’ll find a horsey vacation waiting for you no matter your experience level. Walden Creek Stables in Sevierville is just one of the horse havens that call East Tennessee home. Come ride the trails, experience Wild West shows, watch trick riders, or even get hitched in a western themed wedding! All on over 500 acres of beautiful, rolling countryside.
Sharks
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies has over 350 species of marine life hailing from all parts of our water covered globe. There are fish of every size, shape, and color displayed in fantastic exhibits. See dive shows at the coral reef exhibit; come face to face with sharks as you traverse the underwater tunnel; get up close and personal with stingrays at Touch-A-Ray-Bay. This the perfect educational outing for children of all ages.
Lemurs
Rainforest Adventure is home to some of the most exotic critters in Gatlinburg. Featuring over 130 amazing species from around the world you’ll see alligators, lemurs, parrots and mongoose – just to name a few. Adding to the excitement is the new Aussie Walkabout featuring Australian natives such as wallabies and kangaroos. Groups are welcome so consider hosting a gathering for your guests will never forget!
Bear
Of course you can find native Tennessee wildlife by camping out in the Great Smokey Mountain National Park, but for a more controlled visit consider Smoky Mountain Wildlife Encounter at Ober Gatlinburg. This collection of locals includes otters, skunks, racoons and the revered black bear. Don’t miss the Nocturnal House where normally sleepy critters are up and engaging in their usual nightly business.
So what are you waiting for? Come on down to Gatlinburg to experience a truly wild adventure.