Ripley's Believe It or Not Odditorium - A sticker states "silently screaming inside."
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Ripley's Believe It or Not Odditorium

4.3
·8k reviews·Gatlinburg, United States

Explore a world of the strange and unusual, from shrunken heads to bizarre artifacts, at Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditoriums.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more exploration

CrowdLow
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Ripley's Believe It or Not Odditorium - A sticker states "silently screaming inside."

Ripley's Believe It or Not Odditorium

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a world of the strange and unusual, from shrunken heads to bizarre artifacts, at Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditoriums.

4.3
(8k reviews)

"We came, we saw, we got weird. Ripley's did NOT disappoint. Thanks for the wild ride!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ Allow ample time

Plan for 1.5-2 hours, especially with kids, to fully explore all exhibits without feeling rushed.

🎟️ Combo Tickets

Consider combo passes if visiting multiple Ripley's attractions for better value.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shrunken Heads

Shrunken Heads

Marvel at the authentic, preserved shrunken heads, a classic Ripley's oddity that sparks curiosity and wonder.

Instagram
Rare Animal Skeletons

Rare Animal Skeletons

Discover fascinating and unusual animal skeletons, showcasing nature's most peculiar creations.

TikTok
Interactive Exhibits

Interactive Exhibits

Engage with a variety of hands-on displays and photo opportunities that make learning about oddities fun for all ages.

TikTokReddit
Themed Galleries

Themed Galleries

Explore diverse galleries featuring everything from voodoo artifacts to artistic masterpieces made from unusual materials.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

To avoid crowds and get the best experience, aim for early mornings or late evenings, especially on weekdays. Some locations offer combo passes for multiple attractions, which can be a good value if you plan to visit more than one Ripley's venue. Reddit

Embrace the Weird

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditoriums are known for their unique and sometimes bizarre exhibits. Come with an open mind, ready to be surprised and entertained by everything from shrunken heads to rare animal skeletons. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late evenings
Why
Quieter atmosphere, relaxed pace
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends (early)
Why
Beat the rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Do NOT look this exhibit in the eye! 📍Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, St. Augustine, FL #voodoo #voodoobaby #papadocduvalier #spookyseason #halloween #legend #scarystories #ripleysbelieveitornot #ripleysstaugustine #staugustine #florida
@ripleysbelieveitornot
158.7K likes • 2.4M views

⏳ Allow ample time

Plan for 1.5-2 hours, especially with kids, to fully explore all exhibits without feeling rushed. Reddit

🎟️ Combo Tickets

Consider combo passes if visiting multiple Ripley's attractions for better value. Instagram

Is It Worth The Price? Gatlinburg Edition 🤷🏼‍♀️ #gatlinburg #pigeonforge #smokymountains #tennessee #gatlinburgtennessee #greatsmokymountains #sevierville #gsmnp #cadescove #gatlinburgtn #vacation #mountains #knoxville #smokies #travel #pigeonforgetn #greatsmokymountainsnationalpark #nature #smokymountainsnationalpark #wearsvalley #visitgatlinburg #maryvilletn #townsendtn #photography #life #east...
@epikgatlinburg
94.8K likes • 1.9M views
Which activity at Ripley's Believe it or Not! Myrtle Beach is your favorite?? (hosted)⠀ ⠀ We had a blast doing 4 of the activities there: The Aquarium, Odditorium, Mirror Maze & Crazy Golf! They also have an Illusions Lab & Haunted attraction too! ⠀ ⠀ If you haven't visited there, you need to! Stay tuned for a fun vlog 🙌⠀ ⠀ #ripleysaquarium #ripleysmyrtlebeach #ripleysbelieveitornot #ripleysbeliev...
epicfamilyquests
125 likes • 4.5K views

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Bring your camera! Many exhibits are perfect for unique and memorable photos. Reddit

♿ Accessibility

Many locations are wheelchair accessible, making it enjoyable for everyone. [^review]

Kalau sampai Genting, jangan lupa datang sini 🧟👍 📍Ripley's Adventureland, Genting Highland Yang bestnya, bayar 1 harga boleh masuk 5 🤯 ✅ Zombie Outbreak ✅ 4D Trick Art Museum ✅ Jurassic Research Centre ✅ Ripley's Believe it or not! Odditorium ✅ Infinity Room Dah masuk confirm rasa taknak keluar 😂 Jom beli tiket skarang, tanpa perlu beratur , DM kami‼️ #JomTravelLocal #TourismPahang #TourismM...
jomtravellocal
6 likes • 265 views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Allow ample time

Plan for 1.5-2 hours, especially with kids, to fully explore all exhibits without feeling rushed. Reddit

🎟️ Combo Tickets

Consider combo passes if visiting multiple Ripley's attractions for better value. Instagram

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Bring your camera! Many exhibits are perfect for unique and memorable photos. Reddit

♿ Accessibility

Many locations are wheelchair accessible, making it enjoyable for everyone. [^review]

📍 Location, Location!

Some Odditoriums are conveniently located on popular strips, near other attractions. [^review]

What Travellers Say

4.3
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditoriums for their unique and 'weird' exhibits that are always a surprise and a great photo opportunity. Many appreciate the accessibility and the ability for both kids and adults to lose track of time. However, some find certain locations to be smaller than expected for the price, though military discounts are a plus. [^review]

"Super fun (as always)! We’ve hit up 4–5 Ripley’s locations now, and every single one brings the weird in the BEST way. Different exhibits at each stop—so it’s always a surprise (and a photo op)!

Shrunken heads? Check. Rope bridge? Check. A place where both kids and adults can lose track of time? Double check. Even better—my mom’s wheelchair was easy to push through the entire thing, which made the experience even smoother for all of us.

We came, we saw, we got weird.
Ripley’s did NOT disappoint. Thanks for the wild ride, @ripleysbelieveitornot.

Stay strange!

@bucketlistbabekc"

Chelsi Hornbaker

"One of the biggest I've been to. They have many many different things that other ones do not. This is a nice size location and it's located on the strip so everything is right there. We went a bit later in the day and no one was there. We were able to fully explore without feeling rushed. Very clean. Lots of cool things to interact with."

Autumn

"Nothing like most of the ones I've been to! It was def a fun time but very small not sure if I like how they broke them all up but I get the point $ it did make our ending of the trip a good time! But it is a little small which the price kinda shows that! I do like that they give military discount!"

Taylor Cooper

What People Like

Unique and bizarre exhibits
Great photo opportunities
Family-friendly fun

What People Dislike

Some locations are small
Price vs. size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Transportation options vary by location. Many Odditoriums are situated in tourist-heavy areas, making them accessible by public transport, ride-sharing services, or even walking if you're nearby. Check the specific location's website for detailed directions and parking information. [^review]

Parking availability differs greatly by location. Some may have dedicated parking lots, while others are in areas where you'll need to use public parking garages or street parking. It's best to research parking options for the specific Odditorium you plan to visit. [^review]

Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally a convenient way to reach most Ripley's Believe It or Not Odditoriums, especially those in urban or tourist districts. [^review]

Many Ripley's Believe It or Not Odditoriums are strategically located in popular tourist areas, often on famous strips or near other entertainment venues, making them easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing. [^review]

If a city has multiple Ripley's attractions (like Myrtle Beach or Grand Prairie), consider using ride-sharing services or checking local public transport routes. Some combo tickets might imply proximity, but it's wise to confirm travel times. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary by location and age. It's recommended to check the official Ripley's website for the most up-to-date pricing for your chosen Odditorium. Combo passes for multiple attractions are often available and can offer savings. TikTokInstagram

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended. It often saves time by allowing you to skip the ticket line and sometimes offers discounts. Instagram

Many locations offer discounts for military personnel, seniors, and children. Some may also have special promotions or package deals. Always inquire or check their website for available discounts. [^review]

Opening hours can vary seasonally and by location. Most Odditoriums are open daily, often with extended hours into the evening, especially in tourist seasons. It's best to verify the specific hours for the Odditorium you plan to visit on their official website. [^review]

While some attractions might require timed entry, Ripley's Odditoriums typically allow visitors to enter at their leisure after purchasing a ticket. However, booking online in advance is still advised to secure your entry and potentially avoid queues. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the Odditorium, allowing time to read the descriptions and take photos. This can be longer if you have children with you or if you're visiting a larger location. Reddit

Yes, Ripley's Odditoriums are generally considered family-friendly and engaging for children, offering a fun and educational experience with many visually stimulating exhibits. TikTok [^review]

Photography is usually permitted inside the Odditorium, and many visitors enjoy capturing the unique displays. However, always check for any specific 'no photo' signs on certain exhibits. Reddit

Many Ripley's locations feature interactive exhibits, puzzles, and photo opportunities designed to engage visitors of all ages. These can range from optical illusions to hands-on displays. TikTok [^review]

Expect a wide array of peculiar artifacts, including shrunken heads, unusual animal skeletons, bizarre historical items, and unique art pieces. Each Odditorium has its own collection, so the exhibits can vary. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Food and beverage options inside the Odditorium itself are usually limited to gift shop snacks or vending machines. However, many locations are situated in areas with a wide variety of restaurants and cafes nearby. [^review]

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the Odditorium. It's best to consume your meals before or after your visit, or utilize nearby dining establishments. [^review]

Yes, most Ripley's Odditoriums are located in bustling tourist areas that offer a plethora of dining choices, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets. [^review]

You'll typically find a diverse range of restaurants near Ripley's, including fast food, family-friendly diners, themed restaurants, and international cuisine options, depending on the city. [^review]

If you've purchased a combo ticket for multiple Ripley's attractions, you can usually exit and re-enter, or take a break at a nearby restaurant between visits. Confirm re-entry policies with the specific location. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside most Ripley's Believe It or Not Odditoriums. It's a great way to capture the unique and often bizarre exhibits. Reddit

While most exhibits are photo-friendly, always be on the lookout for signs indicating 'no photography' for specific items or displays. Flash photography might also be restricted in some areas to protect artifacts. Reddit

The shrunken heads, unusual animal skeletons, optical illusions, and large-scale oddities often make for the most striking and memorable photographs. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! Modern smartphones are more than capable of capturing great photos inside the Odditorium. Good lighting is usually present, and the unique subjects will make your photos stand out. TikTok

Many visitors enjoy taking photos with the larger-than-life displays, the mirror mazes (if available), and the more visually striking oddities like the shrunken heads or unique art pieces. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditoriums are a hit with families, offering a fun and educational escape from the ordinary. The sheer variety of bizarre and fascinating exhibits keeps kids engaged, sparking their curiosity about the world. Many locations are designed with interactive elements and photo opportunities that children love. TikTok

When visiting with children, consider purchasing combo tickets if available, as they often include other family-friendly attractions like mirror mazes or aquariums. Plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours to allow kids to explore at their own pace without feeling rushed. Most Odditoriums are also accessible, making it easier for families with strollers or young children to navigate. Reddit [^review]

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Ripley's Odditoriums can offer good value, especially when opting for combo passes that grant access to multiple attractions. Look out for online deals or discounts, such as military or senior rates, which can further reduce the cost of admission. [^review] TikTok

To maximize your budget, consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays when crowds are thinner, potentially allowing for a more relaxed experience without the pressure of time constraints. Many Odditoriums are also located in areas with affordable dining options nearby, helping to keep overall trip expenses down. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find a treasure trove of unique subjects at Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditoriums. The bizarre artifacts, unusual displays, and often dramatic lighting provide ample opportunities for striking and unconventional shots. From shrunken heads to peculiar art, your camera roll will be filled with memorable images. TikTokInstagram

While photography is generally permitted, be mindful of any 'no photo' signs on specific exhibits. The variety of oddities means you can experiment with different angles and compositions. Many locations also feature mirror mazes or illusion rooms, which offer particularly fun and creative photographic challenges. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Appeal of Ripley's Odditoriums

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditoriums are more than just museums; they are a testament to Robert Ripley's lifelong quest to collect the world's most unusual and astonishing artifacts. Ripley, a cartoonist and explorer, traveled the globe in the early 20th century, documenting strange phenomena, bizarre customs, and unbelievable facts. His syndicated "Ripley's Believe It or Not!" cartoon strip, which began in 1918, brought these curiosities to a global audience, paving the way for the first Odditorium to open in 1933. TikTok

The enduring appeal of Ripley's lies in its ability to tap into our innate curiosity about the strange and the unexplained. Each Odditorium is curated with a unique collection, ensuring that no two visits are exactly alike. From genuine shrunken heads and two-headed animal specimens to intricate art made from unconventional materials, the exhibits challenge our perceptions of reality and offer a glimpse into the world's most peculiar corners. This blend of history, anthropology, and sheer oddity makes Ripley's a consistently popular tourist destination. Instagram [^review]

Modern Ripley's locations often incorporate interactive elements and modern technology to enhance the visitor experience. This includes things like mirror mazes, illusion rooms, and even virtual reality experiences, alongside the classic oddities. This evolution ensures that Ripley's remains relevant and engaging for new generations of visitors, while still honoring its rich history of showcasing the unbelievable. TikTok+1

Navigating Multiple Ripley's Attractions

Many popular tourist destinations feature not just one, but a cluster of Ripley's attractions, often bundled into combo passes. For instance, in places like Myrtle Beach or Genting Highlands, you might find an Odditorium alongside an aquarium, a mirror maze, a haunted attraction, or even a wax museum. Instagram+1

When considering a combo ticket, it's crucial to assess if you have enough time and interest to experience each attraction. A single Odditorium might take 1.5-2 hours, but adding an aquarium or a mirror maze can easily double or triple your time commitment. Planning your day around these bundled offerings can be cost-effective, but ensure you're not rushing through experiences. TikTokReddit

For those visiting multiple Ripley's venues, consider the logistics of travel between them. While some might be within walking distance, others may require a short drive or ride-share. Checking the proximity and planning your route in advance will help maximize your enjoyment and minimize travel stress. [^review]

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