Age Group: Teen
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Newly revamped exhibition exploring the legend, science, and mystery of the Loch Ness Monster. Kids are completely gripped. Pair with Urquhart Castle next door for a full Loch Ness day. Address: Drumnadrochit, Inverness IV63 6TU Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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Newly opened Castle visitor experience with sweeping 360-degree views over the Highlands from the tower. Interactive exhibits inside bring Highland history to life. Right in the heart of Inverness — easy to combine with the city. Address: Inverness Castle, Castle Wynd, Inverness IV2 3EG Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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Charming covered Victorian market in the city centre with independent shops, cafes, and a warm, dry refuge on a rainy Highland day. Great for Scottish fudge, gifts, and a hot chocolate pitstop. Address: Academy St, Inverness IV1 1JN Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free
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Free local museum with Highland history, Pictish stones, wildlife displays, and hands-on activities for kids. Compact and easy to do in an hour. Great introduction to Scottish Highland culture. Address: Castle Wynd, Inverness IV2 3EB Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free
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Boat trips from Inverness to spot the famous bottlenose dolphins of the Moray Firth — one of the largest resident dolphin populations in the UK. Seals and seabirds too. Book ahead in peak summer season. Address: Shore St Quay, Inverness IV1 1NF Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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Outdoor amphitheater drama telling the story of the Cherokee people and the Trail of Tears. Runs summer evenings — a powerful, moving performance that older kids find deeply impactful. Address: 688 Drama Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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The oldest Native American cooperative in the US selling authentic Cherokee baskets, pottery, wood carvings, and jewelry. Free to browse — a meaningful cultural stop that supports Indigenous artisans directly. Address: 645 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free
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Fascinating guided cave tour through a natural cavern with underground streams, smoky quartz formations, and mysterious history. A cool (literally) escape on a hot day. Kids are captivated. Address: 455 Blowing Cave Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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Large indoor trampoline park with dodgeball courts, foam pits, and a toddler zone. Perfect energy-burn activity on a rainy or overly hot day. Grip socks required — sold on site. Address: 1414 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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Farm-to-table restaurant with a working farm on-site where kids can see chickens, goats, and garden beds. Excellent Southern breakfast and lunch. One of the most family-friendly dining experiences in the area. Address: 1628 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Low Cost $