Mysterious Mansion

Mysterious Mansion is a three-story haunted house on River Road in Gatlinburg. It has detailed Victorian theming, hidden passages and several levels to find your way through. It's a good fit for horror fans, families with older children and groups of friends who want an old-fashioned walk-through scare instead of a ride. Younger or easily frightened kids may find it too intense.

Reviewers mention the actors most often. Several point out that only two or three performers work the house, yet they keep popping up in different places, so the house feels much busier than it is. The jump scares are strong enough that some groups say they ran out the exit, and one family said their teens went through three times in one afternoon. Visitors also like the detailed sets, the creepy darkness and not knowing what's coming next. Not everyone enjoys it: a clown scared one young visitor to tears, and another reviewer felt rushed and thought it cost too much for how long it lasts.

It's open noon to 11 PM Friday through Sunday and 3 to 10 PM Monday through Thursday. Hours can change, so check before you go by calling (865) 436-7007. Buying admission online helps you skip lines at busy times, and reviewers mention short waits and good spacing between groups. Evenings feel the spookiest, especially on weekends and close to Halloween.

Go in a small group of two to four people so you stay together around the hidden doors and moving walls. Expect very dark rooms. In some spaces you have to search for secret doors to get out, which can be tricky if you haven't been to many haunted houses.