ZooTennessee, US

Tennessee Aquarium

The Tennessee Aquarium offers an unforgettable journey from the mountains to the sea.

About

The Tennessee Aquarium offers an unforgettable journey from the mountains to the sea.

This highly acclaimed public aquarium, nestled on the banks of the Tennessee River in Chattanooga, immerses visitors in diverse aquatic ecosystems through its two distinct buildings: River Journey and Ocean Journey. As one of the top aquariums in the United States, it provides an unparalleled experience, showcasing thousands of animals and highlighting critical conservation efforts. From the freshwater wonders of Appalachia to the vibrant coral reefs of the ocean, the aquarium meticulously recreates natural habitats, making it a captivating educational and recreational destination.

The River Journey building traces the path of a raindrop from the Appalachian Mountains to the Gulf of Mexico, featuring playful North American River Otters in River Otter Falls, massive freshwater species like Arapaima and Alligator Gar in the River Giants exhibit, and a vast collection of freshwater turtles. In contrast, the Ocean Journey building plunges guests into marine environments, where they can marvel at Sand Tiger Sharks and Green Sea Turtles gliding through the expansive Secret Reef, observe charismatic Gentoo and Macaroni Penguins at Penguins' Rock, and wander amidst free-flying butterflies in a lush tropical garden. Each exhibit is thoughtfully designed to engage and educate, offering close-up encounters with fascinating wildlife.

Visiting the Tennessee Aquarium is an enriching adventure for all ages, fostering a deeper connection to the natural world and inspiring appreciation for aquatic life. Its commitment to conservation, combined with interactive exhibits and captivating animal encounters, creates lasting memories. Whether you're captivated by the serene dance of jellyfish, the vibrant hues of tropical fish, or the powerful presence of sharks, the aquarium provides a unique perspective on our planet's aquatic biodiversity. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.

The Tennessee Aquarium first opened its doors on May 1, 1992, situated along the scenic Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga. It quickly established itself as a leading institution, earning accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) in 1993. A significant expansion occurred in 2005 with the addition of the Ocean Journey building, complementing the original River Journey structure and allowing the aquarium to broaden its focus to include saltwater ecosystems. Over its history, the aquarium has welcomed over 20 million visitors and is consistently recognized as one of the nation's premier public aquariums.

What to do here

Explore the two distinct buildings (River Journey and Ocean Journey), attend daily animal presentations and feedings, participate in diver chats at the Secret Reef, and interact with touch tanks. Consider adding an IMAX 3D Theater experience, located adjacent to the aquarium, for nature documentaries.

Seasonal info

Summer offers extended hours and often new IMAX features. Fall and winter can be good options with holiday-themed events like SCUBA Claus in December or underwater pumpkin carvings in October.

Accessibility

The Tennessee Aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible, with wide walkways, ramps, and elevators throughout all exhibit galleries. It is also certified as sensory-inclusive by KultureCity, offering sensory-friendly resources and staff training to accommodate guests with sensory needs. Service animals are welcome, with specific considerations for the Butterfly Garden due to free-roaming inhabitants.

Don't miss

River Otter Falls

Watch the playful North American River Otters.

River Giants

Encounter enormous freshwater fish like Arapaima and Paddlefish.

Secret Reef

A massive saltwater exhibit teeming with Sand Tiger Sharks, Sandbar Sharks, Green Sea Turtles, and thousands of colorful reef fish.

Penguins' Rock

Observe Gentoo and Macaroni Penguins both on land and swimming in their large habitat.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Pipevine Swallowtail

Bald Eagle

Monarch Butterfly

Sycamore

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Purchase tickets in advance online

The aquarium uses a timed-entry system, and booking ahead ensures your preferred entry time, especially on weekends and holidays.

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across two large buildings.

Arrive early or late

To avoid peak crowds, aim to visit right when the aquarium opens or in the late afternoon.

Bring swimsuits for kids in summer

There's an interactive water feature called The Passage outside the aquarium where children can cool off.

Utilize parking options

While there are paid lots, Chattanooga offers a free electric shuttle, and handicapped placarded vehicles can park for free at metered spaces. RV parking is also available.

Consider the IMAX 3D Theater

Located nearby, it offers an excellent complement to your aquarium visit and can be a good way to break up your day or escape the weather.

Frequently asked questions

: It typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to explore both the River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings. However, many visitors recommend allowing 3 to 4 hours or even a full half-day to fully immerse yourselves in the exhibits and enjoy daily presentations without feeling rushed.
: Yes, the Tennessee Aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible, featuring wide pathways, ramps, and elevators throughout its two buildings. It is also a KultureCity certified sensory-inclusive venue, offering sensory bags and quiet areas to support guests with sensory sensitivities.
: Be sure to visit River Otter Falls to see the playful North American River Otters, and don't miss the dramatic Secret Reef in the Ocean Journey building, home to Sand Tiger Sharks, Sandbar Sharks, and a Green Sea Turtle. Other highlights include the charismatic Gentoo and Macaroni Penguins at Penguins' Rock, the lush Butterfly Garden with free-flying butterflies, and the impressive River Giants exhibit featuring massive freshwater fish.