With the gorgeous Smoky Mountains as a backdrop, there’s only one thing that can rival Dollywood’s beauty: the rides. Thrilling roller coasters, daring water excursions, family rides and kiddie adventures give everyone a chance to scream with excitement.

Dolly Parton’s Stampede is a true slice of Americana. This extravaganza is packed with horse-riding stunts, special effects and big music productions. It all comes together with a patriotic salute featuring “Color Me America,” written and recorded by Dolly.

Solve the mysteries of the ocean 1,200 feet above sea level at TripAdvisor’s top-ranked aquarium in the country. With more than 10,000 exotic sea creatures ranging from penguins to sharks, Ripley’s Aquarium in the Smokies has more sea life than Gatlinburg has residents.

Its adventure knows no bounds. One minute you’re soaring above the Smokies on an aerial tramway, and the next you’re flying down the mountain on an alpine slide. Open year-round, Ober Gatlinburg has a wide range of outdoor adventures, including water raft rides, winter skiing and snowboarding.

The panoramic views are just the beginning. Home to 412 different wildlife species and more than 700 miles of streams, Smoky Mountain National Park is full of sights still waiting to be discovered. Hike one of the endless trails or cut through the range on a guided white-water rafting tour to see the Smokies in a whole new way.

Calling it a museum doesn’t do it justice. It’s an experience unlike any other. The Titanic Museum boasts the largest display of Titanic artifacts found anywhere on earth. Visit to see how life was before and after the worlds most luxurious ship crashed into that dreaded iceberg.

Feel the rush of a family vacation with a day full of thrilling rides. The Speedpark features eight different go kart tracks, bumper boats, amusement rides, miniature golf and a state of the art arcade.