Sleep With the Sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Sleep With the Sharks

at

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Event Dates:
Saturday, September 26–Sunday, September 27, 2026
Saturday, December 26–Sunday, December 27, 2026

Time: 8:00 p.m.–8:45 a.m.

Location: Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Address: 88 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Admission: $100 plus tax

Trade counting sheep for counting sharks during Sleep With the Sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in downtown Gatlinburg. This unique family sleepover invites guests to explore the aquarium after hours and discover what happens inside Shark Lagoon once the daytime visitors have gone home.

The evening is filled with family-friendly activities, including a scavenger hunt, a late-night snack, and an engaging aquarium activity. When it is time to settle down for the night, participants will sleep inside the aquarium while sharks and other fascinating sea creatures glide through the surrounding water.

The adventure continues the following morning with a continental breakfast and a special animal encounter. Aquarium admission is also included, giving families an exciting opportunity to experience one of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions in an entirely new way.

Space is limited for this special overnight experience, and advance ticket reservations are strongly recommended.

What’s Included

• Overnight experience inside Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
• Aquarium admission
• Late-night snack
• Scavenger hunt
• Family-friendly activity
• Continental breakfast
• Animal encounter

Event Details

September Sleepover:
Begins Saturday, September 26 at 8:00 p.m.
Ends Sunday, September 27 at 8:45 a.m.

December Sleepover:
Begins Saturday, December 26 at 8:00 p.m.
Ends Sunday, December 27 at 8:45 a.m.

Ticket Price: $100 plus tax

Participants should review Ripley’s current planning instructions, packing recommendations, age requirements, and event policies before purchasing tickets.

Stay Near Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Turn your aquarium adventure into a memorable Smoky Mountain getaway with Bear Tracts Vacation Cabins. Our Gatlinburg-area cabins provide a comfortable place for your family to relax before and after the Sleep With the Sharks experience.

Choose from cabins featuring private hot tubs, game rooms, mountain views, indoor pools, theater rooms, and spacious gathering areas. Book your stay with Bear Tracts Vacation Cabins and Find Your Happy Place in the Smoky Mountains.