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Kids of any age will have fun in Tennessee at world-class attractions, museums and more.
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For kids age five or 15 – these family-friendly things to do will leave everyone smiling. Whether you're searching for kids attractions near you or planning ahead, read on for places to go with kids in Tennessee on your next family vacation.
Several popular family destinations across the state have been “Kid Reviewed” by children, who have voiced their opinions about what they liked best about a particular attraction. These places for kids were even tested with a Laugh Tracker device, which gauged both excitement and laughter at each stop.
Note that several of these kid-friendly attractions are also sensory-friendly. For more information, visit belikebuddy.com/tennessee.
Watch river otters play and penguins waddle at the Tennessee Aquarium on the Chattanooga Riverfront. This is one of the best places to visit with kids who love marine life.
Home to more than 10,000 creatures, including a cool shark tunnel with a moving walkway — guaranteed to wow even the most unimpressed teens.
Rides like the Avalaunch water coaster and Rainbow Revenge make this one of the most fun activities for kids when you're in East Tennessee.
Year-round fun with three distinct water parks.
A great pick for those searching for fun things to do for kids nearby that combine thrills with music and lights.
A lakeside paradise with rides, beaches, and boat rentals.
Tennessee State Parks have been protecting natural, cultural and historic resources since 1937. Explore mountains, rivers, lakes and historic landmarks at one Tennessee’s incredible state parks, many of which offer overnight lodging in cabins, lodges or campgrounds. If you're looking for a scenic hike or a fun kids activity near you, rock climbing, boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, birding, paddling and horseback riding are all popular outdoor activities at the state’s network of parks.
See sea lions, feed giraffes, and spot giant pandas — one of only three zoos in the U.S. with these rare bears. Established in 1906, it’s home to over 3,500 animals.
Pet kangaroos, feed lorikeets, and soar on the Soaring Eagle Zip Line. Other highlights include Critter Encounter and a playful jungle gym.
Known for its red pandas and expansive animal habitats.
Offers close-up views of chimpanzees, jaguars and more.
Recently made headlines for welcoming a spotless giraffe — one of the rarest in the world.
Dig for dinosaur bones, experiment with water flow and electricity, and explore hands-on STEM exhibits.
Zoom down the 2.5-story super slide, explore a pretend farmers market, and unleash creativity at Creation Station.
Pretend to be a pilot in a full-size FedEx cockpit, splash in the 40-sprayer water park, or ride the 1909 Grand Carousel.
Encourages learning through roleplay and discovery.
Offers exciting, science-based exhibits on paleontology and more.
What to Expect: Great Smoky Mountains views, whimsical villages, garden strolls, ziplines, and a mountain coaster.
Additional Experiences: BirdVenture play zone, Astra Lumina nighttime light walk, live music, and seasonal events.
Access/Transportation: Ride the scenic Chondola or hop aboard the Ridge Rambler from downtown Gatlinburg.
Reservations & Tickets: General admission available online or onsite; some experiences may require timed entry.
What to Expect: More than 60 rides and attractions, live entertainment, artisan demonstrations, and Southern-style dining.
Additional Experiences: Wildwood Grove with interactive play areas, seasonal festivals like the Flower & Food Festival and Smoky Mountain Christmas.
Access/Transportation: Easily accessible from downtown Pigeon Forge with parking and shuttle service available.
Reservations & Tickets: Admission available online or at the gate; lodging packages available at DreamMore Resort and Smoky Mountain Cabins.
What to Expect: A 100,000-square-foot museum and a 50-acre outdoor heritage park with interactive exhibits for all ages.
Additional Experiences: Dinosaur and space exhibits, Earthquake Simulator, Children’s Discovery Garden, and historical village.
Access/Transportation: Conveniently located in Union City with on-site parking.
Reservations & Tickets: Tickets available year-round with special programming and events throughout the year.
What to Expect: Scenic trails, rock formations, and panoramic views from Lover’s Leap and the suspension bridge.
Additional Experiences: Ruby Falls underground waterfall tour, seasonal light displays, and Fairyland Caverns.
Access/Transportation: Drive up Lookout Mountain; on-site parking available for both attractions.
Reservations & Tickets: Entry tickets can be purchased online or at the gate; combo passes often available.
What to Expect: Tours of Elvis Presley’s mansion, gardens, personal jets, and car collection.
Additional Experiences: Elvis Presley’s Memphis campus with immersive exhibits, restaurants, and gift shops.
Access/Transportation: Located just south of downtown Memphis with ample visitor parking.
Reservations & Tickets: Multiple ticket packages available; advance reservations encouraged during peak times.
What to Expect: America’s tallest freestanding elevator, 360-degree views, and an immersive Bass Pro Shops experience.
Additional Experiences: Indoor bowling alley, wildlife exhibits, dining options, and the Big Cypress Lodge hotel.
Access/Transportation: Located along the Mississippi River in downtown Memphis with parking and public transit access.
Reservations & Tickets: Entry to most experiences is walk-in; some activities may require separate admission.
What to Expect: Hands-on exhibits designed to spark creativity and learning through play.
Additional Experiences: 1909 Grand Carousel, splash park, FedEx plane cockpit simulation, and rotating exhibits.
Access/Transportation: Centrally located in Memphis with on-site parking.
Reservations & Tickets: Open year-round with flexible ticketing; special events may require advance registration.
Enjoy apple picking, pumpkin patches, petting zoos, hayrides, corn mazes and more throughout the year.
A beloved East Tennessee tradition celebrating 60 years with floats, bands and Santa Claus.
Holly Jolly Electric Christmas Parade – Paris
Leiper’s Fork Christmas Parade
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