Gatlinburg’s RainForest Adventure Zoo – A Great Kids Activity
RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo: A Tropical Escape Near Gatlinburg
For families seeking an enriching and enjoyable day trip near Gatlinburg, RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo offers a captivating blend of education and entertainment. Located in Sevierville, this indoor zoo is home to more than 600 animals representing tropical and temperate ecosystems, making it an ideal destination—especially on rainy days.
Recognized as one of the top small zoos in the country, RainForest Adventures provides a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. It features over 130 species, including reptiles, amphibians, mammals, birds, and insects—many of which are known for their vivid colors and rare characteristics. Visitors often find themselves mesmerized by animals they’ve only seen on nature documentaries.
Interactive and Educational Experience
The zoo emphasizes hands-on learning, offering opportunities to observe, pet, and feed a variety of friendly animals. Many of the creatures on display were born in captivity and are well-acclimated to human interaction, making them especially engaging for young visitors. Popular residents include playful lemurs, exotic wild cats, African hedgehogs, and the rare Golden-Headed Lion Tamarins—one of the smallest monkey species in the world.
Visitors can also observe brilliantly colored birds, expressive frogs, and a wide range of reptiles, including snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and tortoises. These creatures offer a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the rainforest and encourage curiosity and respect for wildlife.
The zoo's mission extends beyond entertainment, with a strong focus on education. Staff members regularly lead informative presentations and are available in the petting areas to answer questions. The facility is equipped to host school groups and large parties, accommodating up to 250 guests for engaging, curriculum-aligned programs.
A Great Option for Educational Travel
RainForest Adventures is particularly popular among homeschooling families seeking to combine vacation with educational value. The zoo’s immersive environment offers a unique supplement to classroom learning, while still providing a fun and relaxed outing.
Visitor Information
RainForest Adventures is open year-round and conveniently located near Tanger Outlets in Sevierville, just a short drive from Pigeon Forge and approximately 15 miles from Gatlinburg. Free on-site parking is available, and admission is affordably priced with discounts for children, seniors, and groups of 10 or more. Annual Zoo Passes offer unlimited entry throughout the year.
While there is no food service within the zoo, numerous nearby dining options make it easy to pair your visit with a meal. Photography and video recording are welcomed, so don’t forget your camera.
Before leaving, explore the Amazon Traders gift shop, which features a wide variety of souvenirs, including books, plush animals, games, handcrafted items from around the world, and unique finds like Iguana Hot Sauce. You can even take home a pressed penny as a keepsake from this exotic adventure.
RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo – Contact Details
Website: RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo: A Tropical Escape Near Gatlinburg
For families seeking an enriching and enjoyable day trip near Gatlinburg, RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo offers a captivating blend of education and entertainment. Located in Sevierville, this indoor zoo is home to more than 600 animals representing tropical and temperate ecosystems, making it an ideal destination—especially on rainy days.
Recognized as one of the top small zoos in the country, RainForest Adventures provides a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. It features over 130 species, including reptiles, amphibians, mammals, birds, and insects—many of which are known for their vivid colors and rare characteristics. Visitors often find themselves mesmerized by animals they’ve only seen on nature documentaries.
Interactive and Educational Experience
The zoo emphasizes hands-on learning, offering opportunities to observe, pet, and feed a variety of friendly animals. Many of the creatures on display were born in captivity and are well-acclimated to human interaction, making them especially engaging for young visitors. Popular residents include playful lemurs, exotic wild cats, African hedgehogs, and the rare Golden-Headed Lion Tamarins—one of the smallest monkey species in the world.
Visitors can also observe brilliantly colored birds, expressive frogs, and a wide range of reptiles, including snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and tortoises. These creatures offer a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the rainforest and encourage curiosity and respect for wildlife.
The zoo's mission extends beyond entertainment, with a strong focus on education. Staff members regularly lead informative presentations and are available in the petting areas to answer questions. The facility is equipped to host school groups and large parties, accommodating up to 250 guests for engaging, curriculum-aligned programs.
A Great Option for Educational Travel
RainForest Adventures is particularly popular among homeschooling families seeking to combine vacation with educational value. The zoo’s immersive environment offers a unique supplement to classroom learning, while still providing a fun and relaxed outing.
Visitor Information
RainForest Adventures is open year-round and conveniently located near Tanger Outlets in Sevierville, just a short drive from Pigeon Forge and approximately 15 miles from Gatlinburg. Free on-site parking is available, and admission is affordably priced with discounts for children, seniors, and groups of 10 or more. Annual Zoo Passes offer unlimited entry throughout the year.
While there is no food service within the zoo, numerous nearby dining options make it easy to pair your visit with a meal. Photography and video recording are welcomed, so don’t forget your camera.
Before leaving, explore the Amazon Traders gift shop, which features a wide variety of souvenirs, including books, plush animals, games, handcrafted items from around the world, and unique finds like Iguana Hot Sauce. You can even take home a pressed penny as a keepsake from this exotic adventure.
RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo – Contact Details
Website: rfadventures.com
Phone: 865-428-4091
Location:109 Nascar Drive, Sevierville TN, 37862. Just off Highway 441 in Sevierville, behind the NASCAR Café near Tanger Outlets