Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is one of the most extraordinary destinations for millions of visitors to the beautiful city of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Our mission is to provide a top-quality, world-class aquatic life facility that will foster environmental education, conservation, and research, while simultaneously providing entertainment for visitors of all ages. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is part of Ripley Entertainment. For over 90 years Ripley Entertainment has been a world leader in family fun. Built on a foundation of a tiny daily newspaper cartoon which debuted in 1918, the company now appeals to families and people of all ages with entertainment attractions around the world. The company also has a long successful history in book publishing, product licensing, radio, and television. Part of The Jim Pattison Group, Canada's third-largest privately owned company, Ripley's is proud to be the largest and fastest-growing chain of amusement attraction companies in the world.