Nestled in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, the Smoky Mountain Zoological Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike. This unique attraction offers visitors the opportunity to interact with a diverse array of wildlife, from majestic mammals to captivating reptiles and birds.
Location and Contact Information
The Smoky Mountain Zoological Park is located at 1039 Caney Creek Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. You can reach the park by phone at (865) 430-5508.
Overview of the Park
The Smoky Mountain Zoological Park is a true gem in the Smoky Mountains region, showcasing a wide variety of animal species in a themed environment. Visitors can expect to encounter a range of mammals, reptiles, birds, and even amphibians, all while enjoying interactive experiences and educational programs.
Animals and Exhibits
Mammals
The park’s mammal collection includes some fascinating species, such as the binturong (also known as the bearcat), the African serval, lemurs, sugar gliders, and hedgehogs. These unique creatures offer visitors a chance to observe their behaviors and learn about their natural habitats.
Reptiles
Reptile enthusiasts will be delighted by the park’s impressive collection of snakes, turtles, tortoises, crocodilians, and lizards. These cold-blooded creatures are sure to captivate visitors with their intricate scales and fascinating adaptations.
Birds
The Smoky Mountain Zoological Park is home to a vibrant array of birds, including the stunning blue and gold macaws, cockatoos, parrots, finches, and toucans. Visitors can witness the beauty and grace of these feathered friends up close.
Amphibians
Frogs, toads, bullfrogs, and the unique axolotl are just a few of the amphibians that can be found at the Smoky Mountain Zoological Park. These fascinating creatures offer a glimpse into the diverse world of amphibian life.
Bugs
For those interested in the smaller inhabitants of the animal kingdom, the park also features a collection of tarantulas, scorpions, cockroaches, and other insects.
Hours and Admission
The Smoky Mountain Zoological Park is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Admission prices are as follows:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | $18.99 |
| Children (ages 2-11) | $11.99 |
Unique Features
One of the standout features of the Smoky Mountain Zoological Park is its themed environment, which has been designed by a renowned zoological contractor. This attention to detail creates an immersive and engaging experience for visitors.
In addition to the impressive animal exhibits, the park also offers a variety of interactive experiences, such as animal encounters, feeding opportunities, and educational programs. These interactive elements allow visitors to get up close and personal with the animals, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Other Zoos in the Smoky Mountains
While the Smoky Mountain Zoological Park is a unique and captivating attraction, it’s not the only zoo in the Smoky Mountains region. Other notable zoos and petting zoos in the area include:
Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo
Located in Sevierville, this zoo boasts a collection of over 600 animals from around the world, including mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians.
Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo
This attraction in Sevierville offers a petting zoo experience with deer, camels, kangaroos, and other exotic animals, as well as horseback riding opportunities.
Conclusion
The Smoky Mountain Zoological Park is a true gem in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, offering visitors a chance to connect with a diverse array of animal life. Whether you’re interested in mammals, reptiles, birds, or even insects, this park has something to captivate and educate everyone who visits. With its themed environment, interactive experiences, and educational programs, the Smoky Mountain Zoological Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of the Smoky Mountains.
References
- RainForest Adventures. (n.d.). RainForest Adventures | Sevierville – Tennessee. Retrieved from https://www.rfadventures.com
- Eagles Ridge. (2021, March 17). 3 Unique Zoo Attractions in the Smoky Mountains You Need to See. Retrieved from https://eaglesridge.com/blog/zoo-attractions-in-the-smoky-mountains/
- Yelp. (n.d.). Smoky Mountain Zoological Park – Pigeon Forge, TN – Yelp. Retrieved from https://www.yelp.com/biz/smoky-mountain-zoological-park-pigeon-forge
- Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo. (n.d.). Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo. Retrieved from https://deerfarmzoo.com
- Smokies Adventure. (n.d.). Zoos & Aquariums of the Smokies. Retrieved from https://www.smokiesadventure.com/smokymountains/attractions/aquariums-zoos.htm.