Smoky Mountain Fun for Kids of All Ages

The end of another school year is just around the corner, so the question of where to go on summer vacation will soon demand an answer. If you ask the kids, they'll tell you they want some place with exciting and adventurous things to do. Somewhere they can burn off some energy and act like kids are supposed to act. Where would you find such a place that's affordable and has plenty that adults will enjoy, too? The Smoky Mountains!

Parrot Mountain & Gardens

Don't just show your kids nature… let them interact with it! From macaws to lorikeets, you and your children can have a hands-on experience with gorgeous, tropical birds. Conceived and built to help protect endangered species of birds, Parrot Mountain & Gardens is a safe haven where adults, kids and birds can come together without fear. Kids especially enjoy the petting zoo, which plays host to baby birds that they can hold and help feed.

Before you leave, be sure to have your picture taken with a bird on your shoulder (or your arm, or your head, or your lap) that can then be turned into postcards and more.

WonderWorks

Yes, the building really is upside down! That in and of itself is enough to make kids want to visit, but it's what they find inside that will make them want to stay. With attractions like "Quake Café" and "Hurricane Hole," you and the kids can experience what a 5.3 earthquake or the different categories of hurricanes might feel like.

The Challenge Zone and Space Zone let you test your physical and psychological strength or explore a life-size replica of the Mercury spacecraft. Design your own rollercoaster, immerse yourself in the Bubble Room, battle it out in a fierce laser tag competition and more.

Mini-Golf

What's the big deal about mini-golf? This mini-golf is designed to be played under black lights. That's right; on this indoor course, you'll see dolphins, mermaids, pirate ships and more shimmering in the dark. It's a truly unique way to play one of America's favorite games.

Ghost Walk

Are there such things as ghosts? Do you have the know-how to solve unsolved disappearances? You can give it a try when you participate in a ghost walk. These one-hour who-done-its take place along the banks of the Pigeon River, as a folklorist guides your way along lighted paths. Book your tour at the Old Mill General Store.

Dinosaur Walk Museum

It's not Jurassic Park, but it is the next best thing. Dinosaur Walk Museum lets you explore over 50 life-size dinosaurs along with 20 live reptile exhibits. It's educational and amazing at the same time.

Worried that the kids will be bored on vacation? Not if you take them to the Smoky Mountains! This is just a sampling of all the fun there is in the Smokies. It's a wholesome, family-friendly atmosphere where everyone finds something they love.

Robbin Dean is a Reservations Agent for Smoky Mountain Resorts offering Pigeon Forge, TN motel accommodations including comfortable lodging and the most popular attractions in the Smoky Mountains. Visit www.smokymountainresorts.travel today for details.