Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is home to an exciting variety of attractions that explore the fascinating world of sea creatures, including a glass bottom boat ride that sets sail into the aquarium’s Shark Lagoon! This is a unique opportunity to get an up-close look at sharks and other aquatic wonders, so don’t miss this fun activity during your visit to this world-famous aquarium! Here are the top 3 things to know about the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies:
1. What to Expect
The Glass Bottom Boat Adventure at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies takes you on a thrilling trip into the Shark Lagoon, where you’ll encounter thousands of sea creatures including giant tarpon, sea turtles, green moray eels, and some seriously large sharks! While cruising into the lagoon on this special boat, only 3 inches of glass separate you from these incredible creatures and sharp-toothed predators! Altogether, you’ll be surrounded by more than 8500 aquatic animals representing over 75 different species from the Atlantic and Caribbean reefs! The boat rides are led by the aquarium’s Adventure Crew, who are delighted to share information about the animals within the aquarium and provide insight into what it takes to maintain the facility.
2. Ticket Information
Tickets to the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure are available for a small upcharge from your required admission to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and the boat ride tickets are the same price for both children and adults. Due to the popularity of the tour, we recommend that you purchase your tickets online at least several days in advance to avoid disappointment! The aquarium uses a timed ticketing system so that you can select a preferred time slot for your tour.
3. Times, Dates, and Location
The Glass Bottom Boat Adventure departs every 20 minutes from 10 AM to 9 PM daily! Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is located at 88 River Road in Gatlinburg TN, which is less than a mile from our Gatlinburg hotel! While you can find paid parking nearby and in many other spots throughout town, we suggest simply walking from our hotel to enjoy the bustling sights along the Parkway or the peaceful scenery along River Road!
About Our Hotel in Downtown Gatlinburg
Our affordable hotel in downtown Gatlinburg offers the perfect lodging option near Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and all of the other fantastic attractions throughout the Smokies! We offer a variety of comfortable room types to meet your needs, and all hotel rooms have private balconies overlooking a mountain stream, gas fireplaces, flat-screen televisions, Keurig coffee makers, and more! While staying with us, you’ll also love our impressive selection of amenities, such as a free continental breakfast, free on-site parking, complimentary wireless Internet access, and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool!
Check out all of the rooms at our hotel in Gatlinburg TN today to stay just minutes away from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies! We look forward to welcoming you to the Smoky Mountains!
