Contact Our Large Group Coordinator for Planning Assistance and a Custom Group Lodging Quote

Here is just a sampling of places you can walk to from Sidney James:

Large Group Travel Planning and Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN

Youth Group Travel Tips:

1. Get directions well in advance.
2. Figure your travel time carefully, considering high traffic during summer and autumn months.
3. Be sure your drivers are well rested.
4. Provide a printed, detailed itinerary for your drivers and parents.
5. Set a specific time for loading the vehicle(s) at the church, along with departure time.
6. Gather your group together before everyone boards the vehicle(s).
7. Have your youth and adults pick an overnight bag.
8. Spend your travel time building relationships with each other.
9. Allow time on the way to camp for spiritual preparation.
10. Always remember safety first.  Have a First Aid Kit and a file folder with each student’s health information and permission slips in the vehicle(s).
11. Allow time of the way home for re-entry.
12. Recruit some parents to plan a welcome home celebration.
13. Gather parents and youth in a big Circle in the Parking Lot to give thanks upon your return.

Contact Our Large Group Coordinator for Planning Assistance and a Custom Group Lodging Quote

Gatlinburg Attractions
Many Gatlinburg Attractions offer large group discounts.  Visit the Attractions Association site for a full listing of attraction members and those offering group discounts.

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
The Aquarium is the centerpiece of downtown Gatlinburg and most of big events in town happen in and around there. The Aquarium itself is 1 - 2 hours of aquatic fun and wonder that is hard to find elsewhere in the Smoky Mountains.  There is a giant underwater tunnel, many video showings and individual exhibits,  classrooms, divers, interactive items for the kids, and two restaurants.

The Aquarium is open 365 days a year, from 9 am until Late Evening.  Reservations are needed for group rates and group dining at the restaurant.  Please call 865-430-8808 ext. 2109 or 888-240-1358 for group rates.

Ober Gatlinburg
Ober is a mountaintop fun center with miniature golf, arcades, rides, ice skating rink, snowboarding and skiing during the winter season. You can get to it by taking a scenic Tramway or driving up Ski Mountain Rd.

Ober offers group rates for all the activities, tramway, winter events, etc.  (800-251-9202) You must have at least 20 people in your group to qualify for group rates. Advanced reservations are required. A deposit is required for a 
ski group rate.

Dollywood
Dollywood is the premier amusement park in East Tennessee, and the major source of country music and entertainment for all ages, including rides, restaurants, themed park sections, games and much more. It will likely be the  first place kids want to visit on your visit to the Smoky Mountains.

For Groups of 15 or over, the 15th ticket is free along with a  complimentary meal voucher. Dollywood also offers complimentary parking for  buses and group tours available on request.

Contact Our Large Group Coordinator for Planning Assistance and a Custom Group Lodging Quote

[Smoky Mountain Groups]