Gatlinburg Space Needle and Family Fun Center, Gatlinburg, TN Amusement Center

When you go into the town of Gatlinburg, the one thing that will probably catch your eye is the Gatlinburg Space Needle. This gigantic tower is big enough, and tall enough, to be seen from most anywhere in Gatlinburg. Along with the tower there is also an arcade, the Gatlinburg Space Needle and Family Fun Center, which is a main attraction in the town.

Gatlinburg is a very scenic part of the state of Tennessee because it is at the entrance to the Smoky Mountains. It is for this reason that it has the nickname, "The Gateway to the Smokies."

One of the best places to get up high and be able to take in the grandeur of the area is to go up to the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle. This steel tower is 342 feet above ground and offers the perfect place to take pictures. You can walk around the deck and get a 360 degree view of the mountains and of the town of Gatlinburg.

There are two glass elevators that will take you up to the viewing deck. Each elevator can take up to 20 people at a time, and the observation deck can hold up to 250 people.

The tower was built in 1970, and at that time it was the second tallest tower in the entire state. Since then, it has slipped to the fifth place, having been surpassed by some other TV and radio towers.

At the bottom of the Gatlinburg Space Needle, is another favorite of the young people that come to Gatlinburg - an arcade. This two-floor arcade offers 25,000 square feet of the latest electronic games for players of all ages.

Among the games, a visitor can find things such as video games, skeeball, foosball, punching bags, basketball, pool tables, air hockey, and some pinball machines. There are also games for the really younger set, too. Tickets might be able to be used to redeem prizes, too.

Another well-loved game that is in the arcade is Lazer Runner. This interactive laser tag game provides combatants with special vests, Phasers, and a special place for the war to be raged. On the maze battlefield, there are black lights, theatrical fog, and a lot of stunning graphics which all adds to the excitement of the game. Once hit, a vibrating sensor lets you know that it's all over for you - but only for 5 seconds - then you're ready to get even!

Another favorite at the arcade is a show called Hypnotized. This show is hosted by master hypnotist - and also a comedian - Jon Dee. He amazes people with his stunts and uses members of the audience, too. He is sure to bring a laugh and amaze the audience, too.

A special event takes place in Gatlinburg every New Year's Eve. You can come and watch the ball drop during the annual street party. Thousands come every year for the event, which is followed with a live band and fireworks at midnight.

When you make your trip to Gatlinburg, be sure to visit the Gatlinburg Space Needle and Family Fun Center, right in the middle of Gatlinburg, TN. The view and fun is tremendous.