Where do you turn for strength, support, and smiles for miles? Friendship is powerful to say the least. And with all the sorrow and sadness plaguing the world, it\u2019s important to take time to focus on the good and the greater found in positive relationships. Celebrated across the globe on July 30 is the International Day of Friendship \u2014 a day meant to cherish your friends, from lifelong pals to newly formed relationships. At the heart of this holiday is the overwhelming desire of the United Nations (UN) to showcase the power of friendship and how it can change the world for the better.<\/p>\n
This year, make the International Day of Friendship a priority and bring your besties and buddies to the Great Smoky Mountains to explore and play at top group attractions! Scream aboard whipping roller coasters, chill in a wave pool, ice skate year-round, duel zipline through the treetops, wave at passing sharks, hike to waterfalls, and bond at your cabin rental \u2014 all in the name of friendship!<\/p>\n
Dollywood & Splash Country<\/a><\/strong> Combo tickets + group pricing available.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/a><\/strong><\/a>Ober Gatlinburg<\/a><\/strong> Group rates available.<\/em><\/p>\n Anakeesta<\/a><\/strong> Group rates available.<\/em><\/p>\n Ripley\u2019s Aquarium of the Smokies<\/a><\/strong>
\nPulling double duty in Pigeon Forge, Dolly Parton presents 2 unique mountain attractions in Pigeon Forge: Dollywood and Dollywood\u2019s Splash Country. Zoom around sharp twists and turns on rides of all kinds, hop aboard the coal-fired steam engine, visit a few museums<\/a>, watch musicals and educational shows, sample Southern favs, and admire local crafters at work at Dolly\u2019s theme park. And head to her water park for summer fun \u2014 splashing in the wave pool, relaxing down the lazy river, and shooting down water slides!<\/p>\n
\nShopping, play, dining, and scenic mountain views all in one? Visit Ober Gatlinburg with your friends and make epic memories \u2014 riding the tram to the mountaintop, ice skating year-round, summer tubing, rock wall climbing, encountering wildlife, putt putting, and beating the highest arcade scores! There are also 15+ shops and eateries, including 2 top-notch restaurants overlooking mountain peaks with one of the largest dance floors around. Buy commemorative souvenirs, dine together, and boogie all night long! Who knows? There may even be a live performance\u2026<\/p>\n
\nTurn up the magic in your friendships at the tippy top of Anakeesta, an aerial adventure park atop a mountain in Gatlinburg. There\u2019s plenty to do, spectacular views, and an entire village to explore! Start with a chondola (chair lift + gondola) ride, then step into Firefly Village where you\u2019ll find unique boutiques and restaurants ready to serve your group of friends. Follow up with outdoor fun, like duel ziplining, crossing the Treetop Skybridge, playing in treehouses with the kiddos, walking through Vista Gardens, and soaring down the mountain on Rail Runner!<\/p>\n
\nGet ready to explore an award-winning aquarium in Gatlinburg with your gal pals and best dudes. This multi-level underwater adventure will take you through a tropical rain forest, ocean realm, coral reef, shark lagoon, touch a ray bay, gallery of the seas, discovery center, stingray bay, and even a penguin playhouse. Create memories with special experiences, like feeding Sally the sea turtle, riding in a glass-bottom boat, splashing with stingrays, or meeting adorable penguins\u2026while they paint a one-of-a-kind souvenir for you!<\/p>\n