How long should I spend at Mysterious Mansion?

Most people spend 15-60 minutes inside, with the average being around 20 minutes. You go at your own pace, though some exit early if it gets too intense.

Is Mysterious Mansion good for kids?

It's recommended for ages 7-8 and up, but honestly, this place is extremely scary even for adults. We'd suggest it only for kids who specifically love being frightened.

Is there parking at Mysterious Mansion?

The mansion is centrally located at 424 River Road near other Gatlinburg attractions. Specific parking details aren't provided, but the central location makes it easily accessible.

Are there actors inside Mysterious Mansion?

Yes, live actors work alongside animatronics throughout the mansion. They follow a strict no-touch policy, so scares are psychological rather than physical.

Can I exit early if I get too scared?

Absolutely. Emergency exits are available throughout the mansion if you need to leave early, and we've seen plenty of people use them.

Mysterious Mansion

Duration

15-60 minutes (average 20 minutes at your own pace)

Best For

Horror enthusiasts seeking genuine scares • Groups looking for an adrenaline rush • Experienced haunted house visitors

Pro Tip

Position yourself at the front of your group for maximum scares - that's where actors focus most of their attention, and you'll get the full effect of all the jump scares.

About Mysterious Mansion

Looking for genuine scares in Gatlinburg? Mysterious Mansion delivers serious frights in a towering three-story Victorian mansion that's been terrorizing visitors since 1980. This isn't your typical seasonal Halloween attraction - it operates year-round and maintains a reputation as one of the area's most intense haunted experiences.

The self-guided tour winds through dark maze-like corridors and secret passages, with live actors and sophisticated animatronics creating unpredictable scares throughout the mansion. Groups of about eight people navigate winding staircases and tackle interactive challenges, making each visit uniquely nerve-wracking. While actors won't physically touch guests, the psychological intensity often proves too much - even for seasoned haunted house enthusiasts who sometimes opt for the emergency exits.

At $25 per adult, you're paying for quality production value and skilled performers who know how to time their scares perfectly. The Victorian architecture adds an authentic layer of creepiness, with detailed period-appropriate set design that makes the whole experience feel more immersive than standard haunted attractions.

The mansion extends its hours during the Halloween season, but visiting during off-peak times can provide an even more intimate - and terrifying - experience. Pro tip: while it's tempting to rush through when scared, take time to appreciate the intricate details and hidden surprises throughout the house.

Be warned: this isn't a family-friendly spook house. The intense atmosphere, confined spaces, and startling encounters make Mysterious Mansion best suited for serious thrill-seekers who enjoy being genuinely frightened. If you're looking for Gatlinburg's scariest haunted house experience, this historic Victorian nightmare delivers.

Last updated: February 22, 2026 • Based on 2,983 reviews

Amenities & Features

Extremely effective scare actors who create the illusion of being everywhere at once with just 2-3 performersThree-story experience with detailed Victorian theming and surprises around every cornerJump scares intense enough to have groups literally running out of the houseShort to no wait times compared to other haunted attractions, with proper spacing between groups

Don't Miss

Three-Story Victorian Mansion

Navigate through an authentic turn-of-the-century mansion with winding staircases and secret passageways. The complex layout creates a genuinely disorienting experience that adds to the fear factor.

Self-Guided Maze Experience

Unlike other haunted houses, you'll navigate escape-room-style rooms independently. Groups of about 8 work together to find their way through dark corridors and hidden passages.

Live Actors and Animatronics

Professional actors work alongside realistic animatronics to create jump scares around every corner. The no-touch policy means psychological terror rather than physical contact.

Phantom of the Opera Organ Area

One of the mansion's most memorable rooms featuring dramatic organ music and theatrical scares. The attention to detail in this section really showcases the attraction's quality.

Emergency Exit System

Multiple emergency exits throughout the mansion for those who get overwhelmed. We've seen plenty of people use them - there's no shame in tapping out early.

Strobing Light Effects

Intense strobe lighting combined with the maze-like layout creates serious disorientation. Bring your phone's flashlight but expect to still feel completely lost in the darkness.

Know Before You Go

Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes for navigating stairs and uneven floors
Don't bring loose items - it gets very dark with strobing lights
Arrive during weekdays or early evenings to avoid peak crowds
Open year-round but hours extend during Halloween season
Emergency exits available if you need to leave early

Opening Hours

Monday3 to 10 PM

Tuesday3 to 10 PM

Wednesday3 to 10 PM

Thursday3 to 10 PM

Friday12 to 11 PM

Saturday12 to 11 PM

Sunday12 to 11 PM

Best Times to Visit Mysterious Mansion

Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.

🔥Buzzing

Weekend afternoons

☀️Relaxed

Weekday mornings

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Mysterious Mansion?

The mansion operates year-round, 7 days a week from spring break through October. During off-season, it's open all weekends plus special holiday periods like Christmas through New Year.

How much does Mysterious Mansion cost?

Admission is $25 per adult, including tax. This is a flat rate regardless of when you visit.

Do I need reservations for Mysterious Mansion?

No reservations are required. However, we recommend arriving during off-peak times like weekdays or early evenings to avoid long lines.