Tennessee Aquarium
All Things To Do
Key Info
Price & Hours
Details
Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds and find parking more easily. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist
Tennessee Aquarium Overview
The Tennessee Aquarium is one of the world's largest freshwater aquariums and Chattanooga's biggest attraction. It significantly contributes more than $187 million to the city's economy annually. However, it isn't just a typical fish tank. The aquarium offers an immersive journey featuring various animals that live both above and below sea level. The museum follows the migration of a raindrop from a mountain stream down to the ocean's depths.
Exhibits
River Journey
The "River Journey" exhibit allows visitors to travel through different ecosystems, such as the Appalachian Cove Forest and the Tennessee River. During this journey, guests encounter chirping birds, river otters, alligators, turtles, and more.
Ocean Journey
The "Ocean Journey" exhibit follows, introducing visitors to penguins, jellyfish, and colorful reef fish. There is also a touch pool where visitors can interact with sharks and stingrays.
Visitor Experience
Reviewers have praised their visits to the aquarium, often surprised by the extensive variety of animals housed there. Many recommended checking out the butterfly garden and noted that the aquarium is an excellent choice for a rainy or cold day. Visitors were also pleased with the convenient parking, family-friendly facilities, accessibility, and knowledgeable staff. However, a few cautioned about the potential for large crowds.
Hours
The Tennessee Aquarium is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tickets
Admission costs $39.95 for adults and $29.95 for children aged 5 to 17. Kids aged 4 and younger can enter for free. IMAX theater tickets are an additional $9.95 per person for ages 5 and older.
Location and Parking
The aquarium is located downtown on the banks of the Tennessee River. While there is no on-site parking, several paid lots and paid street parking are available in downtown Chattanooga. Additionally, the city's free shuttle stops next to the aquarium. For more information, visit the aquarium's website.
