Ripley's Aquarium & Apple Barn

There are so many things to do in this area that it was hard to decide where to take the girls on a special outing.  Since they will be visiting Holiday World in a couple weeks with their Mimi and Big Daddy, we decided to take them to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies instead of Dollyworld.  

It is located right in the mountain village of Gatlinburg. I love visiting Gatlinburg and walking through all the quaint shops and souvenier stores.  It was pretty hot outside, so we decided to head straight for the air conditioned Aquarium.  It was awesome.  Quite frankly, I was not looking forward to going.  It was something that I thought the girls would enjoy.  Dave and I went to the Aquarium in Chatanooga about 20 years ago and I was bored, bored, bored.  But, I was pleasantly surprised at how interesting this aquarium was with their  assortment of sea creatures & fish, too.  :-)  It was a little pricey at almost $40 Adult and $20 for children but well worth going!  

  

I LOVE the Apple Barn!  This is a must stop for us, whenever we visit the Gatlinburg area.  It is located in Sevierville and is a wonderful place to eat and do a little shopping.  

I guarantee that you will leave here stuffed and rolling out the door!   It's awesome.  Dave ordered their famous fried chicken and I opted for their turkey and cornbread dressing.  The girls ordered chicken fingers off of the kids menu.  

Immediately, our server brought us each a glass of their home made apple julep and their signature apple fritters with apple butter.  They are so yummy!  Also, included in our meal was a cup of chicken noodle or vegetable soup, salad or cole slaw a side of our choice, our main course and complimentary dessert - cake or home-made cobbler.

The atmosphere is delightful in this beautiful farmhouse with rocking chair porch and gazebo.  You feel like you are having a meal at grandma's house.  The servers are dressed in calico dresses with aprons and make you feel like you are truly eating "down home"!  :-)