4 Unique Museums in Gatlinburg

We all know that learning from the black and white pages of a textbook can be a little boring. Learning doesn’t have to be this way! It can come alive through a hands-on approach. Museums are filled with hands-on learning experiences, and the ones in Gatlinburg make it easy to have fun while you learn new things! On your next vacation, here are 4 unique museums in Gatlinburg to check out!

1. The Pinball Museum

PinballsHave you ever been to a museum where you could play with the exhibits? At the Pinball Museum, you can do just that. You learn about the history of the game while playing it. You will also see the largest collection of Pinballs in the Smokies. This collection has many different themes with the oldest ones dating back to the 1960’s. Some of the more modern themes include popular movies and TV shows such as Lord of the Rings and The Walking Dead. Contact the museum through their website!

2. Hollywood Star Cars Museum

We all wish that we could drive the Batmobile or race with the sleek cars from the Fast & Furious series. Even though you may never be able to drive these cars, you can still admire them at the Hollywood Star Cars Museum in Gatlinburg. They have cars from movies and television shows that have been created in the last 50 years. You can also see cars driven by Elvis Presley and Sevierville, TN’s own Dolly Parton! This museum is sure to fuel your love for learning!

3. Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum

Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum Building Who knew that such a small everyday object could have such a rich history? The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum started from one woman’s small collection of salt and pepper shakers. The museum shows how salt and pepper shakers have evolved. It is hard to believe, but there is a $60 million salt shaker! The evolution of these objects can show us how technology has changed our lives. Salt shakers went from being a wooden container with two holes in the top to being completely electric! It is worth pointing out that this museum is also pet friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends!

4. Ripley’s Odditorium

At Ripley’s Odditorium, there are many sights to see! In fact, the museum has over 16 themed galleries that hold 500 artifacts. You will be amazed as you crane your neck to look up at a tall albino giraffe or look more closely at a shrunken head! Another example of an oddity is the Spiny Porcupinefish. As you probably would have guessed, it has spikes just as porcupines on land do. It can puff up to twice its regular size. The sharp spikes that poke outward are highly venomous. In fact, the venom is 1,200 times more deadly than arsenic! Make sure you have time to look at everything because you probably won’t see these artifacts anywhere else!

There is a lot of things to learn and explore at all of the museums in Gatlinburg! If you’re looking for other things to do, check out this list of Smoky Mountain area attractions!