45+ Essential Things to Know BEFORE Going

Sometimes the Tennessee Aquarium is named the Chattanooga Aquarium as a result of if its location in downtown Chattanooga TN. The web site recommends two hours to go to, however you may simply keep many of the day – actually, we did. Here are 45+ important issues you must know earlier than you go and explanation why you’ll wish to block out a day to go to one among our favourite Chattanooga, Tennessee points of interest.

The Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga TN is positioned alongside the riverfront, inside strolling distance of a number of Chattanooga points of interest. It’s an exquisite place to begin a tour of Chattanooga, TN, however listed here are various explanation why you may wish to reserve a full day only for the TN Aquarium, Chattanooga.

CHATTANOOGA AQUARIUM LOGISTICS

UPDATED COVID POLICY MARCH 2022: They will proceed to keep up capability limits every hour on the Aquarium to assist keep correct bodily distancing inside our galleries. In addition, the viewers measurement at IMAX can be restricted to 65% of theater capability. Therefore, timed-entry tickets will nonetheless be required. Masks are strongly inspired. We strongly advocate calling earlier than visiting.

Tennessee Aquarium Hours. The Chattanooga Aquarium hours are 10 a.m. till 5 p.m. Monday by Friday. Saturdays it’s 9 a.m. till 6 p.m. and Sundays are from 9 a.m. till 5 p.m. Saturdays are the busiest day on the Aquarium and mornings are extra hectic on any day. Come after 4 pm if you wish to keep away from crowds, however know that two hours is probably not sufficient to see and do every part you want to expertise.

Tennessee Aquarium Timed Entry. Discover why the Tennessee Aquarium is constantly rated one of many nation’s high aquariums. They have two buildings to discover. River Journey options freshwater habitats from our yard and all over the world. Ocean Journey brings you face-to-face with sea creatures from the Gulf of Mexico all the best way to the South Pole. Your ticket consists of admission to each Aquarium buildings. So plan accordingly.

Children Under 2 are FREE. Children below 2 years of age don’t want a Chattanooga Aquarium ticket for the displays and the IMAX theater.

Tennessee Aquarium Prices. Aquarium pricing may be very cheap contemplating it’s actually a full day of enjoyable. If you’ll go to greater than as soon as, think about a household TN Aquarium membership. Although I didn’t discover any Chattanooga Aquarium coupons right here, I did discover a number of coupons for different Chattanooga TN points of interest on the Chattanooga Visitors Bureau internet web page. Maybe examine right here, as they may add aquarium coupons from time-to-time.

Chattanooga Aquarium Parking. The Tennessee Aquarium location is off I-24 in Chattanooga, TN. There are a number of paid parking heaps across the space if you’re solely planning to see the Aquarium. If you might be staying at one of many Chattanooga Hotels, think about strolling. Chattanooga is a superb strolling metropolis, and once you get drained, take the free eco-friendly shuttle that all through downtown.

CHATTANOOGA TN AQUARIUM CAMPUS

The Tennessee Aquarium is housed in a number of completely different buildings, so it’s extra of a campus than a single vacation spot. Purchase tickets on the ticket middle constructing, then select one of many following to begin your journey.

THE RIVER JOURNEY BUILDING AT THE CHATTANOOGA AQUARIUM

River Journey Building. There are two most important buildings on the aquarium in Chattanooga, TN which are included within the basic aquarium ticket worth. The first is River Journeys. River Journey is concentrated on freshwater habitats from the mountains of Tennessee to the Gulf of Mexico. Below are three of our favourite displays in River Journeys.

Rivers of the World Gallery. This exhibit throughout the River Journey’s constructing is the place you’ll encounter different creatures from across the globe together with a formidable variety of turtles – who knew the world had so many alternative sorts of turtles!

Tennessee River. Tennessee River gallery in River Journey examines the river, evaluating wild Tennessee with these new, man-made environments. Explore habitats representing the Tennessee River, Reelfoot Lake, and extra.

River Giants Exhibit. One of the principle points of interest in River Journey’s is the National Geographic-inspired River Giants exhibit.

Turtles of the World. These shelled reptiles predate and outlasted the dinosaurs and have, in sometimes indomitable trend, unfold to fill virtually each ecological area of interest on Earth. Turtles serve important roles in seed dispersal and environmental alteration, and cultures all over the world revere them as symbols of persistence, longevity, knowledge, and perseverance.

THE OCEAN JOURNEY BUILDING AT THE CHATTANOOGA AQUARIUM

Ocean Journey Building. Ocean Journey is a separate construction from the River Journey constructing. You’ve in all probability guessed this one focuses on ocean habitats. Below are three of our favourite displays on this constructing.

Penguins’ Rock. The Chattanooga Aquarium has an exquisite penguin show that features a chilly instance of the water they swim in. See how lengthy you may maintain your hand within the arctic water. It was arduous to get my son away from watching the penguins, so he was a pure throughout our backstage tour of the penguin habitat the place we helped observe the Macaroni and Gentoo penguins for analysis. More on spring break farther down on this publish.

Secret Reef. Visitors really feel as if they’re floating in a bubble deep within the ocean whereas surrounded by hundreds of curious saltwater creatures, like colourful fish and large sharks, in a implausible, brightly-colored coral setting. As they make their method although the cavern, they will view backside feeders and observe the behaviors of mysterious saltwater life as in the event that they had been truly deep-sea divers. Visitors are amazed when 10-foot sharks swim slowly above their heads and faculties of darting fish transfer back and forth in each path round them.

Boneless Beauties. Despite their drastically completely different appearances, the animals on this dimly lit gallery share one widespread trait – the dearth of a spine.The Aquarium showcases a few of the most fascinating and weird animals on earth, together with the wondrous, Giant Pacific Octopus, the hovering, squid-like Cuttlefish and people spineless, brainless wonders: the electrifying jellyfish.

Butterfly Garden. For people who must catch their breath a bit above the ocean, the Butterfly Garden is a pleasant escape. If you keep nonetheless, chances are you’ll even have one of many butterflies land on you. Want to see how nonetheless your youngster may be? Tell them in the event that they don’t transfer a butterfly may land on them.

IMAX AT THE AQUARIUM IN CHATANOOGA

TN Aquarium IMAX Theatre. A brief stroll from the River and Ocean Journey buildings is an IMAX theatre, which is one among solely a handful within the U.S. with the brand new IMAX with Laser projection system. This is a separate ticket and may be bought at a reduction together with your aquarium tickets or individually. All my boys cherished the IMAX film, which was one thing I’m normally tempted to skip. I’m glad we didn’t.

IMAX Tickets are Flexible. When bought with the aquarium it’s a versatile ticket, which means you may go to any present you’d like, as an alternative of being confined to a particular time, which makes for a extra leisurely afternoon within the aquarium galleries or websites in Chattanooga. Movies change usually, so seek the advice of the web site for the most recent.

MORE TO EXPLORE AT THE AQUARIUM

Splash Fountains. Although not a part of the aquarium in Chattanooga, there are three locations for teenagers to splash round, so chances are you’ll wish to deliver a washing swimsuit or further set of garments and a towel in your Chattanooga TN Aquarium journey. The first is a stream that flows in entrance of, and between the River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings. The second is an space known as The Passage the place water cascades down steps right into a reflecting pool. Be positive to learn up on the attention-grabbing historical past behind “The Passage”. The third is definitely throughout the river on the fountains in entrance of Coolidge Park.

Chattanooga Market. Starting in mid-March each Saturday the Tennessee Aquarium Plaza is house to a Chattanooga Farmers Market known as the River Market, one among six public markets within the space. Frommers named the Chattanooga Market one of many Top Ten Best Public Markets in America. Have one individual wait in line for Tennessee Aquarium tickets, whereas the others perform a little native buying.

NEW AT THE CHATTANOOGA AQUARIUM

Tropical Cove. The Tennessee Aquarium is opening a brand new exhibit simply in time for Spring Break 2017. The Tropical Cove part of the Aquarium has been renovated right into a Madagascar rainforest, full with lemurs and radiated tortoises. I’m wondering if yow will discover King Julian from the film Madagascar? I like that film, and King Julian.

The Lemur Forest. “Lemur Forest” options actual, not cartoon, Ring-tailed and Red-ruffed lemurs within the newly renovated Tropical Cove. These charismatic animals will be capable of reap the benefits of the towering heights beneath the glass peaks of the Ocean Journey constructing.

Red-Ruffed Lemurs. Red-ruffed Lemurs are usually arboreal creatures, native to the rainforests of Madagascar. So search for them climbing and swinging within the cover above the sculpted cliffs of the habitat. They are inclined to dwell solitary lives, however are typically very vocal.

Ring-tailed Lemurs. Ring-tailed Lemurs (King Julian is a ring-tailed lemur) are extra social, and often energetic. They will leap from location to location, usually scampering all through the house which covers two areas. At occasions, they might appear to skip over the heads of friends as they traverse an elevated walkway from one a part of Lemur Forest to the opposite.

Radiated Tortoises. Large, Radiated Tortoises, additionally native to Madagascar, can be discovered with the lemurs.

Stingray Bay Touch Tank. The well-liked Stingray Bay contact tank has been additionally been transformed to make it simpler for everybody to softly contact the stingrays and different sea creatures that glide by the nice and cozy waters.

Special Programs on the Chattanooga Aquarium

Spring Break Safari. Each spring break, Chattanooga, TN rolls out the crimson carpet for teenagers and their mother and father for a spring break extravaganza. The Chattanooga Aquarium, IMAX, and River Gorge Explorer are simply three of the Chattanooga points of interest that participate within the Spring Break Safari, and supply particular occasions only for children.

Welcome to the Islands. The Chattanooga Aquarium is planning an island theme for the 2017 Spring Break festivities to rejoice the brand new Lemur Forest exhibit opening. Special spring break applications are supplied each day at 1:30pm along with greater than 20 Extraordinary Experience applications which are supplied FREE with Aquarium admission.

Extraordinary Experiences. You don’t have to return throughout spring break to take part within the free Extraordinary Experience Programs. These experiences vary from talks, to animal encounters to up-close experiences. See what can be occurring throughout your go to on the web site, or by the TN Aquarium App. [NOTE: Experiences closed temporarily but check back with the website for details]

Tennessee Aquarium App. Make essentially the most of your go to by downloading the free Tennessee Aquarium app, which has a whole listing of the applications, parking info and IMAX showtimes.

Paddle by Moonlight. The Aquarium has particular applications throughout the exhibition house, however in addition they supply occasions with the Chattanooga TN neighborhood. This guided paddle showcases nocturnal wildlife, in addition to an opportunity to discover the glittering nighttime sky.

Yoga. Laugh with the penguins. Gentle Yoga with the jellies. Just the names are enjoyable. And water has at all times been an awesome relaxer.

Small Fry Mini-Programs. On choose Tuesdays, the Chattanooga Aquarium employees places on applications for the youngest followers. This drop in program is for 2-5 12 months olds.

Sleep within the Deep. How a lot enjoyable wouldn’t it be to spend the evening on the Chattanooga Aquarium? Answer heaps. And then you may skip this subsequent part.

Hotels Near Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga TN

The Chattanoogan. We stayed on the Chattanoogan throughout our go to and cherished it. There is an indoor pool, and a tremendous buffet breakfast. This lodge is a few mile from the Chattanooga Tennessee Aquarium and there are actually nearer lodges, however it’s straightforward to catch the free shuttle bus line for those who don’t wish to stroll.

Chattanooga Choo-Choo. What child wouldn’t like to remain in a prepare? This enjoyable family-friendly lodge is the farthest from the Chattanooga Aquarium at 1.4 miles.

Courtyard Chattanooga Downtown. This is the closest lodge to the TN Aquarium. There are a number of chain lodges inside a half mile of the TN Aquarium together with the Hampton Inn & Suites Chattanooga, The DoubleTree (as a result of their superior cookies are at all times a welcome sight on examine in.), Hilton Garden Inn, Spring Hill Suites, Holiday Inn and Suites.

Locally Owned Hotels Near Chattanooga Aquarium

The Dwell Hotel. Less than a mile from the aquarium in Chattanooga TN is the Dwell Hotel. This is a superb selection if you’re coming sans children, as they solely welcome children 12 and above.

The Bluff View Inn. This is a superb selection if you wish to get a bit of of the historic aptitude of Chattanooga. This mattress and breakfast is definitely a group of historic properties downtown.

Where to Eat Near the Tennessee Aquarium

One of the good issues in regards to the Tenessee Aquarium ticket packages is the pliability to return and go. If you get hungry, take a break and hit one among these close by eating places.

Lupis Pizza – Whenever we go to a brand new metropolis, I like to search out native institutions as an alternative of the identical chains. In Chattanooga there are many choices. For pizza, Lupi’s is the native favourite, near Downtown points of interest.

The Ice Cream Show –  The domestically owned Ice Cream Show is on the Downtown aspect of Walnut Street Bridge. This is a should cease for a tasty ice cream with blended in treats.

Big River Grille. On fairly Chattanooga days, plan to take a seat exterior on the Big River Grille.

Blue Plate. The Blue Plate is a enjoyable selection for households.

The Terminal Brewhouse – This isn’t near the Chattanooga Aquarium, however it was so good I’m including it. Terminal Brewhouse is positioned in a cool triangle formed historic constructing and has a rooftop patio with an awesome view of the long-lasting Chattanooga Choo Choo signal. The menu has numerous selection from pizza to burgers, and their house brew is kind of tasty.

Other Great Chattanooga TN Attractions

In addition to the Aquarium, Chattanooga has a number of superior points of interest. There are too many to listing all of them right here, however I did wish to provide you with a few our favorites.

Walnut Street Bridge – Take a stroll throughout the half-mile pedestrian solely bridge. It’s one of many longest on the earth.

Coolidge Park  – A stroll throughout Walnut Street Bridge from Downtown Chattanooga to the North Shore brings you to Coolidge Park. Bring a number of {dollars} for the quaint carousel, which initially resided in Atlanta’s Grant Park.

Coolidge Park Fountains. Pack a washing swimsuit and towel throughout heat climate to splash within the fountains exterior or a Frisbee for the vast garden.

Ruby Falls. This attraction is positioned within the Lookout Mountain, TN simply exterior Chattanooga. It’s a part of a number of points of interest usually grouped collectively – Ruby Falls, the Incline Railway and Rock City TN. Ruby Falls is a bit kitchsy, however the underground falls actually are breathtaking.

LOOKING FOR OTHER AQUARIUMS IN TENNESSEE

If you like aquariums, listed here are a number of different aquariums to go to in Tennessee. And don’t neglect the Georgia Aquarium too. It is probably not in Tennessee, however it’s not too removed from Chattanooga.

Nashville Aquarium. How far is Nashville from Chattanooga? About two hours, however you cross the time zone, so that you’ll achieve an hour heading from Chattanooga to Nashville. More time for the Aquarium! Nashville Aquarium is positioned in Opry Mills Mall, throughout from the Grand Old Opry and the Opryland Hotel. There are a number of behind the scenes excursions obtainable, or you may decide to dine below the ocean on the Aquarium Restaurant, billed as an underwater eating journey.

Memphis Aquarium. The Memphis TN Aquarium is definitely positioned throughout the Memphis Zoo. See Pocupine pufferfish, electrical eels, Red bellied Piranhas and extra.

Knoxville Aquarium. Aquarium Knoxville is definitely an aquarium retailer extraordinaire, not a real aquarium, however you may nonetheless cease in and see their assortment of colourful fish and invertebrates, in addition to various kinds of habitats.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: The solely different true Tennessee aquarium is Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, TN. This aquarium has two flooring of displays, plus a large number of particular experiences (like an indoor glass backside boat journey), and dwell exhibits.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT AQUARIUMS

STAY NEAR THE AQUARIUM

Sue got here to Atlanta after ending the Walt Disney World College Program the place she was a tour information then visitor relations hostess (and no she didn’t moonlight as Snow White). Sue spent 25 years in PR earlier than including freelance journey writing to her resume. Prior to freelancertamal, Sue printed an award profitable household journey weblog known as Field Trips with Sue for eight years, and produced a TV phase with the identical title on CBS Better Mornings Atlanta. Her favourite place to go to is anyplace along with her husband and three sons. Sue believes anytime is an efficient time for dessert and there are not any dangerous discipline journeys, simply higher tales.

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