If you’re looking for a fun, hands-on attraction that’s perfect for families in the Smokies, Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo is one you’ll want to add to your list. Located in Sevierville, this unique indoor and outdoor zoo sits on more than two acres and is home to over 130 species of tropical animals from around the world.
From colorful birds and curious monkeys to reptiles, amphibians, and even axolotls, there’s something new to discover around every corner. What really makes this spot stand out is how interactive it is. This isn’t a “just walk through and look” kind of place. It’s built for experiences, making it especially great for younger kids who want to stay engaged the whole time.
A Petting Zoo That’s Actually Interactive
If your kids love animals they can touch and feed, the petting zoo area is always a hit. You can feed goats and llamas, and it’s one of those simple experiences kids never seem to get tired of. It’s also really affordable, with feed starting at $3.50 for one bag or three bags for $10, so it’s easy to let them go back for more. It’s a great way to slow things down a bit and let kids interact with the animals at their own pace.
Daily Shows + Hands-On Experiences Keep Kids Engaged
There’s always something happening throughout the day, which makes it easy to plan your visit around live activities. From animal shows to educational talks, these moments give kids a chance to learn while staying entertained.
A few can’t-miss highlights include the guinea pig feeding at 10:30 AM, the otter feeding at 12:00 PM, and the reptile meet and greet at 2:30 PM. These scheduled experiences are a great way to break up your visit and give kids something to look forward to as they explore.
*These times are subject to change daily, please check their website and social media to confirm times.
Get Up Close with Animal Encounters
One of the most unique experiences at Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo is the Sloth Encounter. During this experience, you’ll go behind the scenes with a guide and get up close to feed the sloths their favorite treats, including Lucia, Matteo, and Opal.
All three were born in the United States to captive-born sloths, with Lucia from Louisiana, Matteo from Tennessee, and Opal from North Carolina. Along the way, you’ll learn about their behavior and the adaptations that help them thrive. It’s a fan favorite and easily one of the best photo opportunities in the zoo.
Meet (and Even Hold Hands with) the Otters
If you’re looking for something a little more playful, the Otter Encounter is just as unforgettable. Guests get behind the scenes access to meet the otters, Stanley and Otis, in their habitat through a specially designed barrier that keeps things safe while still allowing interaction. You can feed them their favorite snacks... (they love scallops), and yes... even hold hands with an otter. You'll also learn more about their behavior and leave with some seriously cute photos (plus a one-of-a-kind "otter-graph").
Perfect for Younger Kids (and Easy for Parents)
This is one of those attractions that feels very manageable for families with younger kids. It’s not overwhelming in size, everything is easy to navigate, and there's a good mix of indoor and outdoor areas. Plus, kids 2 and under get in free, which is always a bonus for families traveling with little ones. It’s also a great option for school groups or anyone looking for something educational that doesn’t feel like a formal lesson.
A Great Plan for Rainy Days in the Smokies
Weather in the Smoky Mountains can be unpredictable, and having a solid indoor-friendly option is key when you’re planning your trip. Rainforest Adventures is a perfect rainy day activity because so much of it is covered, while still giving you that “out in nature” feel. Instead of losing a day to bad weather, you can still have a full, fun experience that keeps everyone entertained.
The Perfect Way to Wrap Up Your Visit
Before you head out, make sure to stop by the gift shop. It’s a fun way to wrap up your visit, especially for kids who want to take a little piece of the experience home with them. You’ll find a mix of plush animals, souvenirs, and themed gifts that tie back to the animals you saw throughout the zoo. It’s a quick stop, but one that usually ends up being a highlight for younger visitors.
Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo
Visit over 130 species of tropical animals on 2+ acres in the heart of the beautiful Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. From beautiful birds to curious monkeys, lemurs, sloth, tropical reptiles, poison dart frogs, axolotls and so much more! Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo is home...
