Last Updated on June 7, 2025 by Kimberly Stroh
If you’re dreaming of a getaway where your family can laugh, explore, and make lasting memories together, Sevierville, Tennessee is the perfect place to begin. Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, this welcoming town offers more than just beautiful scenery. It’s filled with kid-friendly adventures that spark curiosity and bring smiles to every age. Sevierville creates moments your family will always remember. Here are seven kid-approved Sevierville attractions that turn an ordinary vacation into something truly unforgettable.
Photo Credit: Visit Sevierville
Of course, Sevierville’s sister cities, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are close by and offer family fun as well, but this list is truly the heart of Sevierville. We’ll always love Dollywood and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but Sevierville combines historic downtown charm with new-age thrills and it’s an unbeatable combination that families love.
1. SkyLand Ranch
Soar down a mountainside on The Wild Stallion, the longest mountain coaster in the SouthEast, or cuddle up with a miniature Highland Cow. Whether you want heart-racing thrills or cute photo ops, SkyLand Ranch has your family covered.
Riding a mountain coaster is a Smoky Mountains must-do and The Wild Stallion is accommodating for families. Younger kids that don’t meet the single-rider height requirements can join an adult to ride along. The Wild Stallion was my four-year-old’s favorite and he rode in my car. Riders pick how fast or slow you go.
After the coaster, take a shuttle or a scenic chairlift to the top of the mountain to explore the ranch. Miniature cows, ponies, pigs, bunnies and more await families that want cute photo ops. The ranch offers live entertainment, a playground area and shopping as well.
What surprised our family the most was the delicious food options at SkyLand Ranch. Stop by the SkyLand Cafe & Bakery for their signature BBQ Brisket Sandwich, then enjoy a sweet treat. The park’s full-time baker makes adorable treats, like a Highland Cow Cupcake and homemade candies that resemble cowgirl boots. They’re almost too cute to eat. Arrive to the top of the mountain hungry and depart with a full belly… after the mountain coaster.
2. Dig ‘N Zone Theme Park
Little dreams come true at Dig ‘N Zone Theme Park. It’s a 27-acre park that offers over 25 attractions, where kids can dig, scoop and ride. Most famous for “The Decimator” ride, which swings guests up in the air, in a circle, powered by a 50,000 pound CAT 320. It’s the most eye-catching thrill ride, but the park is very family-friendly.
All of the attractions, except for “The Decimator,” allows for children to ride with parent if they aren’t tall enough. I love how Dig ‘N Zone caters to little ones, and lets them live out construction site dreams, but also allows the parents to have fun. Our family played together while riding together.
Plan to be comfortable and wear athletic shoes for walking. The park is very stroller-friendly and it’s surprisingly flat. Hydrate and refuel at the Dig ‘N Zone cafe after your day of digging.
3. Tennessee’s Largest Indoor Waterpark
Wilderness at the Smokies is a waterpark resort where family comes first. It’s home to Tennessee’s largest indoor waterpark, Wild WaterDome, so your family can splash around any time of the year. It features a 66,000 sq. ft. area with a see-through roof that allows for year-round sunbathing. The resort also blends the fun with a bowling alley, arcade, mini golf and outdoor family waterpark.
It’s my recommendation for your family’s basecamp while exploring Sevierville. Our family loves having so many things to do when coming “home” to the resort. It’s the perfect way to get that last bit of energy out before bedtime.
4. Soaky Mountain Waterpark
Across from Wilderness at the Smokies, is even more waterpark fun. Soaky Mountain Waterpark is 50-acres of fun for all ages. The park debuted Avalanche, which is the world’s first water coaster that combines three different technical elements, to propel riders through high-speed drops and thrilling turns.
For moderate thrills with just enough excitement, enjoy laps around the Black Bear Rapids. It’s not your average lazy river, and mixes up the ordinary with exciting rapids. Little ones will love The Hive, which is a bee-themed splash playground, featuring water play elements and slides.
Escape to your own private cabana to reconnect as a family. I recommend reserving your cabana rental before your day at Soaky Mountain Waterpark, as they sell out quickly during peak summer season. Order food and drinks directly to your cabana to make the most of your day.
The best part? Guests staying at Wilderness at the Smokies receive free entry to Soaky Mountain Waterpark. Take the shuttle between the resort and the waterpark. It’s one of the Sevierville attractions that gives you the most bang for your buck, if you’re staying at Wilderness.
5. Rainforest Adventures Zoo
If your kids love animals and absorbing facts about their favorites, head to Rainforest Adventures Zoo. It’s also my Sevierville attractions pick for a rainy or hot day because it’s an immersive indoor zoo. Walk through the exhibits to see over 600 animals from more than 130 species, that call Sevierville home. Look at lemurs, kinkajous, golden-headed lion tamarins, a two-headed turtle and even axolotl.
The zoo also has an outdoor area, called the Aussie Walkabout, that features llamas, sheep, pygmy goats, and an aviary filled with tropical birds. It’s also where guests can feed the goats, which my kids love to do. Zookeepers are on-hand to answer questions and share about the zoo’s conservation efforts.
If you’re looking for a special experience, book the Sloth Encounter. Go behind-the-scenes to feed sloths, capture family photos and pet the lovable (yet slow) sloths that call Rainforest Adventures Zoo home. It’s a ticket that’s an additional cost to your regular admission, but makes a truly remarkable family memory.
6. The Apple Barn & Cider Mill
Adult and kids can appreciate the tasty things to do at The Apple Barn & Cider Mill. It’s a beautiful family-owned farm where you can watch cider, candy and homemade ice cream being made. Or visit the enchanting Christmas shop that sells the holiday spirit year round.
Kids love the creamery, where ice cream flavors are stacked high. Parents can grab a glass of hard cider at the Cider House or stop by the winery. Walk around and take in the sights and scents of the Apple Barn, then stop by the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant for dinner.
I recommend placing your name on the waitlist, online, while you explore the shops. Built in the 1920’s, the farmhouse was converted to a restaurant and opened in 1986. They serve country favorites, like Fried Chicken and Chicken Pot Pie, with family-style unlimited sides. Guests kick off every meal with a basket of apple fritters and an apple julep to drink. It’s such a great family-friendly restaurant and my kids love the restaurant’s canary birds.
7. Explore Downtown Sevierville
Lastly, it’s easy to bypass historic downtown Sevierville when you’re visiting the popular tourist sights, but you’ll miss out on the city’s charm. The downtown area is where you’ll see many nods to Dolly Parton. Sevierville is her hometown and the city pays homage to her roots with several murals and a statue in front of the Sevier County Courthouse. The statue is part of the Tennessee Music Pathways Trail, which showcases the state’s musical history and the best talent that calls the Volunteer State home.
While you’re downtown, step back in time and grab an ice cream at Red’s Soda Fountain & Ice Cream or head to downtown’s hottest breakfast spot and dine at Buffalo Breakfast Co. They serve modern twists on classic breakfast favorites. It’s a Sevierville foodie destination that the whole family loves.