Visit the Tennessee Aquarium

Visit the Tennessee Aquarium

When visiting Chattanooga, Tennessee, a must-see attraction for both locals and tourists alike is the Tennessee Aquarium. Located in downtown Chattanooga, this aquarium is home to thousands of aquatic animals and plants, making it one of the top-rated aquariums in the country. With so much to see and do, here are some of the best things to do during your visit to the Tennessee Aquarium.

Explore the River Journey Building

The River Journey building at the Tennessee Aquarium is the first stop on your tour of the aquarium. This building features a range of exhibits that showcase the various habitats and creatures that can be found in freshwater environments. Highlights of this exhibit include the largest freshwater aquarium in the world, a butterfly garden, and a touch tank where you can feel different species of fish.

Discover the Ocean Journey Building

The Ocean Journey building is the second part of the Tennessee Aquarium and features an impressive collection of saltwater creatures. Visitors will come face-to-face with sharks, penguins, sea turtles, and countless other species. One of the most popular exhibits is the Secret Reef, which is home to a wide range of colorful tropical fish.

See a 3D Movie

The Tennessee Aquarium offers guests the opportunity to see amazing 3D movies in their IMAX theater. The theater shows a variety of different movies throughout the year, giving visitors the chance to learn more about the underwater world and the creatures that live within it.

Touch a Stingray

One of the most popular activities at the Tennessee Aquarium is the chance to touch a stingray. Visitors can dip their hands into the shallow stingray tank and feel the soft and slimy skin of these fascinating creatures. This is an experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors of all ages.

Attend a Special Event

Throughout the year, the Tennessee Aquarium hosts a range of special events for visitors of all ages. These events range from holiday-themed activities to behind-the-scenes tours, and they provide a unique opportunity to see the aquarium in a new way.

Take a Cruise on the River Gorge Explorer

For visitors who want to see more of the Chattanooga area, a cruise on the River Gorge Explorer is a great option. This 70-passenger vessel takes guests on a tour of the Tennessee River Gorge, showcasing the natural beauty and wildlife of this unique region.

Visit the Butterfly Garden

The Tennessee Aquarium’s Butterfly Garden is a tranquil and peaceful space filled with colorful flowers and fluttering butterflies. Visitors can relax and watch as the butterflies fly around them, making this a great spot to take a break from the aquarium’s more bustling exhibits.

Learn about Conservation Efforts

The Tennessee Aquarium is dedicated to educating visitors about the importance of conservation efforts. Throughout the exhibits, visitors will learn about the different ways that humans impact aquatic ecosystems and what can be done to protect these fragile environments.

Eat at the Aquarium Restaurant

The Aquarium Restaurant at the Tennessee Aquarium is a unique dining experience that allows guests to enjoy delicious food while surrounded by aquatic creatures. With stunning views of the Tennessee River, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.

Shop at the Gift Shop

Finally, no trip to the Tennessee Aquarium would be complete without a visit to the gift shop. Here, visitors can find a range of souvenirs and gifts to remember their visit to the aquarium.

In conclusion, there are countless things to see and do during a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium. Whether you’re interested in marine life, conservation efforts, or just want to have fun, this aquarium has something for everyone.