When you think of Tennessee, you might first envision country music, smoky mountains, and southern hospitality. But did you know it’s also home to some of the best amusement parks in the nation? Here’s a list of the top amusement parks you absolutely must visit in the Volunteer State.
1. Dollywood
Nestled in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Dollywood stands as a testament to the vibrant culture and fun-loving spirit of Tennessee. Owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, this park offers a unique blend of thrilling rides, engaging shows, and down-home charm. It’s a full-on experience that reflects the warmth and creativity of its namesake.
Top Family-Friendly Attractions:
- Dollywood Express: A vintage steam train ride through the scenic foothills of the Smoky Mountains.
- Country Fair: Classic carnival rides like the Dizzy Disk and Amazing Flying Elephants.
Best Seasonal Events and Festivals:
- Smoky Mountain Christmas: Millions of twinkling lights, festive shows, and nightly parades.
- Harvest Festival: Great Pumpkin LumiNights with unique autumn-themed displays and activities.
2. Splash Country
Adjacent to Dollywood, Splash Country offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Covering 35 acres, this water park features a variety of water attractions that cater to all ages and thrill levels, ensuring everyone has a fantastic time.
Top Family-Friendly Attractions:
- Cascades: An 8,000-square-foot lagoon-style pool with interactive geysers and water jets.
- Little Creek Falls: Designed for younger children with pint-sized slides and splash zones.
Best Seasonal Events and Festivals:
- Water Safety Day: Educational activities and demonstrations focused on water safety.
- Themed Weekends: Special festivities that might coincide with your visit.
3. The Island in Pigeon Forge
While not a traditional amusement park, The Island in Pigeon Forge offers a mix of entertainment, dining, and attractions that make it a must-visit destination. This lively spot features over 23 rides and attractions, including the iconic Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
Top Family-Friendly Attractions:
- Island Ropes Course: An adventure course suitable for all ages with multiple levels of challenges.
- Mirror Maze: A fun and disorienting experience for kids.
- Island Express: A small train ride perfect for younger children.
Best Seasonal Events and Festivals:
- Winterfest: Features millions of lights, holiday decorations, and special performances.
- Summer Concert Series: Live music and entertainment throughout the warmer months.
4. Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg combines the charm of a ski resort with the excitement of an amusement park. This year-round attraction offers a variety of activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to alpine slides and wildlife encounters in the summer.
Top Family-Friendly Attractions:
- Wildlife Encounter: See native animals such as black bears, river otters, and bobcats.
- Indoor Ice Skating Rink: Fun activity regardless of the weather outside.
- Amaze’n Maze: A challenging and entertaining adventure for children.
Best Seasonal Events and Festivals:
- Oktoberfest: Celebrating Bavarian culture with music, food, and dancing.
- Winterfest: Skiing, snowboarding competitions, and holiday-themed events.
5. Lake Winnepesaukah
Just a short drive from Chattanooga, Lake Winnepesaukah, affectionately known as Lake Winnie, offers a nostalgic trip back to classic amusement park fun. Established in 1925, this family-owned park combines vintage charm with modern attractions.
Top Family-Friendly Attractions:
- Boat Chute: A classic boat ride that’s been a staple of the park since the 1920s.
- Wacky Factory: An interactive fun house with slides and obstacles.
- Kiddie Rides: A selection of gentle rides for the youngest visitors.
Best Seasonal Events and Festivals:
- 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular: A crowd favorite.
- WinnepeSPOOKah: Halloween-themed event with spooky decorations and haunted attractions.
6. Nashville Shores
Located on the shores of Percy Priest Lake, Nashville Shores is a water park and adventure park rolled into one. With over one million gallons of water fun, including wave pools, lazy rivers, and thrilling slides, it’s a fantastic place for a summer escape.
Top Family-Friendly Attractions:
- Big Kahuna: A giant wave pool creating ocean-like waves.
- Kowabunga Beach: Designed for younger children with smaller slides and water play areas.
- Aqua Park: An inflatable obstacle course on the lake.
Best Seasonal Events and Festivals:
- Dive-In Movies: Watch films while floating in the wave pool.
- Labor Day Weekend Fireworks: A spectacular way to end the summer season.
Tennessee’s amusement parks offer more than just rides; they provide experiences that create lasting memories. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of a roller coaster, the relaxation of a lazy river, or the charm of a classic amusement park, Tennessee has it all.
Disclaimer: Some images in this content was created with the help of AI.
Read Next:
Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
