Tennessee Aquarium
Immerse yourself in aquatic wonders at the Tennessee Aquarium, featuring two buildings showcasing diverse river and ocean life, plus a magical butterf...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Tennessee Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Immerse yourself in aquatic wonders at the Tennessee Aquarium, featuring two buildings showcasing diverse river and ocean life, plus a magical butterfly garden.
"Absolutely fabulous aquarium! The enclosures are clean and the animals look amazing in naturalistic environments."
🎯 Two Buildings, Two Experiences
Explore both River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings for a complete experience. Start at the top and work your way down!
⏰ Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
Get there right at opening to enjoy exhibits with fewer people. It gets busy fast!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
River Giants
River Journey Building
Marvel at massive sturgeon and other incredible freshwater species in breathtaking, naturalistic habitats.
Ocean Wonders
Ocean Journey Building
Dive into the deep with mesmerizing jellyfish, vibrant coral reefs, and the awe-inspiring shark tank.
Butterfly Garden
Between River and Ocean Buildings
Immerse yourself in a tropical paradise filled with fluttering butterflies and lush greenery.
Touch Tanks
River Journey and Ocean Journey Buildings
Get hands-on with gentle stingrays and other fascinating marine life in interactive touch pools.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Two Buildings, Two Worlds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Two Buildings, Two Experiences
Explore both River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings for a complete experience. Start at the top and work your way down!
⏰ Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
Get there right at opening to enjoy exhibits with fewer people. It gets busy fast!
🦋 Don't Miss the Butterfly Garden
This immersive garden is a delightful surprise between the two main buildings.
✋ Interactive Fun for All
Enjoy touching stingrays and other creatures in the hands-on exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Two Buildings, Two Experiences
Explore both River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings for a complete experience. Start at the top and work your way down!
⏰ Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
Get there right at opening to enjoy exhibits with fewer people. It gets busy fast!
🦋 Don't Miss the Butterfly Garden
This immersive garden is a delightful surprise between the two main buildings.
✋ Interactive Fun for All
Enjoy touching stingrays and other creatures in the hands-on exhibits.
💧 Splash Pad Fun (Seasonal)
The play streams in the front plaza are a hit with kids during warmer months.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Tennessee Aquarium for its stunning, naturalistic exhibits and the immersive storytelling that guides you through aquatic ecosystems. The River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings offer distinct, captivating experiences, with highlights like the River Giants and the Butterfly Garden frequently mentioned. While generally a positive experience, some find the food options pricey.
"Absolutely fabulous aquarium! The enclosures are clean and the animals look amazing in naturalistic environments. The lay out of each building tells a story of how water works and how it gets down to the oceans. The rivers exhibits were some of the most jaw dropping enclosures I’ve ever seen. The river giants are gorgeous and I got to love on my favorite species, Sturgeon. I cannot wait to go back!"
Bianca Fetrow
"This is a wonderful Aquarium. Separated in two for a river and ocean experience, this took us about 2.5-3 hours to walk through. From the first steep escalator ride up to the last tank it was a positive visit.
On the river side, it very much reminded us of the 'Animal Crossing' aquarium! Fairly dark, which matches the aesthetic. The awesome addition of the lemurs and butterfly garden were unexpected, but wonderful. Otters are always fun too! Loved seeing them play.
The ocean side was great with three levels to view. Jellies were gorgeous and nice lighting touches."
Kate Bousum
"Really great experience for adults and children of all ages. They have two separate buildings for aquatic life. Hands on activities exist such as touching a sting ray, turtles and stingrays. Was not expecting the butterfly garden which was really neat as well. An IMAX also exists for approximately a 30 minute show. Starting at the top floors and working your way down is recommended. Tickets are same price at gate as they are online."
Jonathan S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tennessee Aquarium is located at 1 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402. It's easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options are also available within Chattanooga.
Yes, there are several parking garages within walking distance of the aquarium. Rates vary, so it's good to check current pricing. Some visitors recommend parking a few blocks away for potentially lower costs.
Chattanooga has a bus station and a train station, making it accessible for travelers from other cities. From the station, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or local bus to reach the aquarium.
Yes, the aquarium is generally stroller-friendly, with elevators and ramps to navigate between levels and buildings. However, it can get crowded, so be prepared for some tight spaces.
For getting around Chattanooga, consider the free electric shuttle that runs downtown, or utilize rideshare services. Walking is also a great option if you're staying nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but they are generally the same whether purchased online in advance or at the gate. It's recommended to check the official Tennessee Aquarium website for the most up-to-date pricing and to purchase tickets.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the aquarium's ticket counter. However, buying online in advance is often recommended to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons.
Look for potential discounts through AAA, military ID, or local partnerships. Sometimes, package deals with other Chattanooga attractions are available. Checking the aquarium's website for special offers is always a good idea.
The aquarium's hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Tennessee Aquarium website for the most current operating hours for the day you plan to visit.
Most visitors spend 2.5 to 3 hours exploring both the River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings. Some may spend longer if they also visit the IMAX theater or take their time at exhibits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the massive River Giants, the immersive Butterfly Garden, the mesmerizing jellyfish, and the interactive touch tanks. The Ocean Journey's shark tank is also a major highlight.
Absolutely! The aquarium is very family-friendly with interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and engaging displays that captivate children of all ages. The play streams outside are also a big hit.
This is a special overnight experience where visitors can sleep among the sharks and rays. It's a unique way to see the aquarium after hours and requires advance registration.
The aquarium often has educational talks and animal feedings throughout the day. Check the daily schedule upon arrival for specific times and locations.
Yes, there are designated touch tanks where you can gently pet stingrays and other sea creatures. It's a fantastic interactive experience for visitors of all ages.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the aquarium has a cafe that offers a variety of food and beverage options. You can also find restaurants and cafes in the surrounding downtown Chattanooga area.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium, except for baby food or formula. There are designated areas where you might be able to consume your own snacks.
The cafe typically offers kid-friendly options like pizza, chicken tenders, sandwiches, salads, and snacks, along with beverages.
Downtown Chattanooga, near the aquarium, has a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, offering diverse cuisines.
Aquarium food prices can be on the higher side, as is common for attractions. Many visitors opt to eat before or after their visit to save money.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed throughout the aquarium. However, flash photography is usually prohibited to avoid disturbing the animals.
The Butterfly Garden offers stunning photo opportunities. The River Giants and the Ocean Journey's shark tank also provide dramatic backdrops. Look for unique lighting in the jellyfish exhibits.
Absolutely! Smartphones are great for capturing the vibrant colors and diverse species. Just remember to turn off your flash.
While personal cameras are fine, professional photography equipment or tripods may require special permission. Always check the aquarium's policy if you plan on extensive filming or photography.
Mornings, right when it opens, can offer softer lighting and fewer people, making for cleaner shots. The ambient lighting in some exhibits, like the jellyfish, is also designed for visual appeal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the play streams outside during warmer months for some extra fun. The aquarium's layout, with its two main buildings, offers a great flow for exploring, and the educational talks are engaging enough to keep kids interested.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your visit, plan to spend at least 3-4 hours to fully appreciate both buildings. Weekday visits are generally less crowded and can offer a more relaxed experience without additional cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Mornings are ideal for softer light and fewer people. Experiment with different angles and settings to capture the vibrant colors and textures of the aquatic life. The immersive nature of the exhibits allows for some truly stunning close-ups.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Two Worlds: River Journey vs. Ocean Journey
The Ocean Journey building transports you to the vast and mysterious oceans. Prepare to be mesmerized by the ethereal beauty of jellyfish in their specially lit tanks, explore colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, and come face-to-face with sharks and sea turtles in the impressive ocean tank. This section provides a stunning contrast to the freshwater exhibits, showcasing the incredible biodiversity of marine life.
Don't forget the delightful Butterfly Garden, nestled between the two buildings. This enclosed tropical environment is a haven for hundreds of colorful butterflies, offering a magical and serene escape. It's a perfect spot for a moment of quiet reflection and beautiful photography.
Interactive Fun and Educational Experiences
Beyond the touch tanks, the aquarium features numerous interactive displays and educational programs. Keep an eye out for animal feedings and educator talks, where you can learn fascinating facts about the animals and their habitats. These sessions are often lively and informative, making learning fun and memorable.
For a truly unique experience, consider participating in special events like the 'Sleep in the Deep' program. This overnight adventure allows you to spend the night at the aquarium, offering a rare chance to see the exhibits in a different light and learn about nocturnal animal behaviors.
Seasonal Delights and Family Fun
The aquarium's layout and diverse exhibits make it an ideal destination for families with children. The combination of awe-inspiring creatures, interactive elements, and educational content keeps young minds engaged and entertained. The butterfly garden is particularly enchanting for kids, offering a magical sensory experience.
While the aquarium itself is a full day's adventure, its location in downtown Chattanooga also offers additional family-friendly activities. Consider exploring the nearby waterfront, parks, or other attractions to round out your visit.
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