Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo
More than 130 species on two acres · Sloth and otter encounters, open 363 days a year
Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo is a family-friendly zoo in Sevierville filled with tropical and exotic animals from rainforests around the world. Monkeys, lemurs, sloths, otters, reptiles, frogs and colorful birds are all part of the collection, along with live animal shows, a petting zoo and up-close animal encounters.
The zoo is at 109 Nascar Drive in Sevierville, near NASCAR SpeedPark and a short drive from Pigeon Forge. Since most of the exhibits are indoors, it's an easy rain-or-shine plan in the Smokies, and it's open nearly every day of the year.
What you'll see
Tropical animals
Walk through exhibits featuring primates like monkeys and lemurs, slow-moving sloths, playful otters, snakes, lizards, poison dart frogs, insects and exotic birds. The layout is easy to explore at your own pace, and the animals are close enough for little ones to get a good look.
Live animal shows
Catch a live animal show, where keepers bring out animals and share fun facts about where they live and how they behave. Shows are a highlight for kids and a great way to learn about animals you won't see in the Smokies.
Petting zoo
The hands-on petting area lets kids meet friendly farm animals like goats and sheep.
Close encounters
The zoo's otters and sloths are its biggest stars. Behind-the-scenes Close Encounters tours take small groups back with a guide for hands-on time, snacks and photos with the animals. Space is limited, so book ahead if an otter or sloth encounter is on your must-do list.
Who it's for
Families with young kids
The zoo is compact, mostly on one level and easy to manage with strollers, which makes it a great fit for toddlers and younger children.
Animal lovers
If someone in your group has always wanted to meet a sloth, the encounter programs make this a memorable stop.
Rainy-day planners
With most exhibits indoors, it's a smart backup when the weather turns. See more ideas in our guide to rainy-day things to do.
Tips for your visit
Go early
Mornings are usually calmer, and the animals are often more active.
Book encounters in advance
Close Encounters tours have limited space, so reserve online before your trip.
Plan the rest of the day
Pair the zoo with go-karts nearby at NASCAR SpeedPark or a visit to Parrot Mountain and Gardens for more animal fun. Find more wildlife spots in our guide to animal attractions in the Smoky Mountains, and more nearby fun in our guide to Sevierville attractions.
Plan your visit
Frequently asked questions
Where is Rainforest Adventures Zoo?
At 109 Nascar Drive in Sevierville, near NASCAR SpeedPark and a short drive from Pigeon Forge.
Is Rainforest Adventures in Pigeon Forge?
It has a Sevierville address, but it's just off the Parkway and an easy drive from Pigeon Forge.
Is the zoo indoors?
Mostly. The tropical animals are housed indoors, so it's a good choice in any weather.
Can you meet the sloths and otters?
Yes. Behind-the-scenes Close Encounters tours offer hands-on time with the zoo's otters and sloths. Book ahead, since space is limited.
Is the zoo good for toddlers?
Yes. It's compact, easy to navigate with a stroller and has a petting zoo, so it works well for little ones.
Rainforest Adventures is just minutes from our Sevierville and Pigeon Forge cabins. Bring everyone to one of our family cabins or large cabins, and book direct to get our Stay & Play Pass with free attraction tickets for every paid night.