Searching for an aquarium in Nashville, TN? Check out the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga. It’s only a short drive away from the aquarium in Nashville, TN and offers interactive exhibits for all ages. Find out what to expect during your visit.
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Key Takeaways
Tickets to the Tennessee Aquarium include discounts for zoo members, military families, and free entry for kids under 4, with options for annual memberships and group rates.
The aquarium offers interactive exhibits like Stingray Bay and a lemur exhibit, along with special programs like ‘Marine Biologist for a Day’ and daily scuba diver interactions, making it fun and educational for all ages.
Visitors can enjoy dining at the Aquarium Restaurant with its unique underwater views, and the aquarium’s IMAX Theater offers immersive educational films and feature film showings.
Aquarium Admission and Ticket Information
Before you set off on your underwater expedition, we’ll cover the basics: ticketing and admission. Tickets can be conveniently purchased at the building right next to the entrance. You have the option to pay with a credit card or, if you prefer, there’s a ticketing window for cash payments.
Adult tickets for entry to both aquarium buildings are priced at $39.95, while youth tickets (ages 5-17) are available for $29.95. If you’re a member of the Nashville Zoo, don’t forget to bring your membership card for a $4 discount on each aquarium ticket. Active military families and veterans also enjoy special discounts, making it easier for everyone to experience the magic of the aquarium. And the best part? Children aged 4 and under get free admission to both the aquarium and the IMAX theater.
Aquarium enthusiasts who crave unlimited visits can opt for an annual membership. Schools and large groups can benefit from discounted rates, which are perfect for educational trips and family outings. Make sure to schedule group visits in advance to take advantage of these offers.
Plan Your Visit: Hours and Location
Located at One Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402, the Tennessee Aquarium is a mere two-hour drive south from Nashville. This prime location makes it an easy day trip for families looking to explore the aquatic wonders. When planning your visit, keep in mind that Chattanooga is in the Eastern Time Zone, which might be different from your local time.
The aquarium is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and on Fridays and Saturdays, it extends its hours until 6 PM. This gives you plenty of time to explore all the exhibits and enjoy the various activities offered. If you’re driving, there are numerous parking options nearby, including a covered garage just a block away from the aquarium.
Don’t forget to explore other attractions in the vicinity while you’re there. The Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center is located right on the Aquarium Plaza, and downtown Chattanooga offers a variety of dining, shopping, and outdoor fun options. These additional attractions make the Tennessee Aquarium an even more appealing destination for a full day of family adventure.
Interactive Exhibits for All Ages
The Tennessee Aquarium is renowned for its variety of interactive exhibits that captivate visitors across all age groups. From touching stingrays to observing lemurs, there’s something here for everyone. The Tropical Cove features a large touch station called Stingray Bay, where guests can get up close and personal with various shark and stingray species. It’s a tactile experience that kids and adults alike will treasure.
Marine biology enthusiasts should definitely try out the ‘Marine Biologist for a Day’ program. This hands-on experience includes activities like dissecting squid and using microscopes to explore marine life. It’s an educational adventure that brings out the inner scientist in everyone.
Another crowd favorite is the lemur exhibit, where visitors can observe these playful creatures in a recreated rainforest and spiny forest environment. Special programs led by lemur experts provide fascinating insights into their behavior and habitat. And don’t miss the daily scuba diver interactions, where skilled divers enter the tanks to care for the aquatic creatures right before your eyes.
Parents often rave about how these interactive exhibits keep their children engaged and entertained. Whether it’s feeding the stingrays or watching the lemurs leap from branch to branch, the aquarium’s hands-on approach ensures that learning is fun for everyone. Prepare yourself to delve into, experience, and uncover the splendors of the marine world.
Dining Options: Aquarium Restaurant and Nearby Lunch Spots
After a morning of exploring, you’ll likely work up an appetite. Refuel at the Aquarium Restaurant, an ideal dining spot for good food. Located right within the aquarium, it features a 200,000-gallon tank filled with tropical fish, sharks, eels, and stingrays, creating a dining experience like no other. The casual dining style makes it a comfortable spot for families to enjoy a meal together.
The menu at the Aquarium Restaurant offers a variety of seafood, American, and steak dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. For entertainment, guests can enjoy mermaid shows where mermaids swim among the fish, adding a magical touch to your dining experience. Year-round events, such as holiday brunch weekends and Breakfast with Santa, add to the restaurant’s appeal.
For a deeper dive into the behind-the-scenes workings of the aquarium, consider taking the 30-minute Behind-the-Scenes Tour. This tour explains the aquarium’s filtration systems and fish food preparation processes. It’s a fascinating add-on that complements your dining experience.
For those wanting to explore alternative dining options, a variety of lunch spots can be found in downtown Chattanooga, within walking distance from the aquarium. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.
Special Events and Programs
The Tennessee Aquarium offers more than just daily exhibits; it also features a myriad of specialized events and educational programs. One of the standout offerings is their virtual outreach program, which allows students to observe animals via pre-recorded videos and interact with an ambassador animal live from the classroom studio. These interactive sessions can be tailored to meet the needs of students, including those with special needs, and align with the science standards of Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama.
Schools looking to participate in these virtual programs can:
Book at least 10 business days in advance
Fees start at $75 for the first program
Title One Schools can receive up to three free virtual programs per semester
These programs are a fantastic way to bring the wonders of the aquarium into the classroom, fostering a love for marine life and conservation.
IMAX Theater Experience
A visit to the Tennessee Aquarium remains incomplete without a trip to the IMAX Theater. This state-of-the-art theater showcases 45-minute educational films in stunning 3D, as well as full-length feature films. It’s an immersive way to learn about the natural world and see it come to life on the big screen.
Special events, such as live broadcasts of significant global events like the Paris Olympics Opening Ceremonies, occasionally alter the regular movie schedule. For those looking to maximize their visit, combo tickets for both the aquarium and the IMAX theater are available at a discounted rate—$47.95 for adults and $37.95 for youth. Aquarium members also receive discounts on IMAX tickets, adding even more value to their membership.
Family-Friendly Amenities
The Tennessee Aquarium is committed to providing families with a comfortable and delightful visit. The inclusive environment is welcoming to all guests, with elevators available in all buildings for easy accessibility. Family restrooms are conveniently located on Level 1 of the River Journey building, just off the main lobby.
For parents with young children, the aquarium provides the following amenities:
Strollers and backpacks are permitted throughout the aquarium buildings
Strollers are not allowed on escalators for safety reasons
There is a designated nursing room near the escalator on the A-level of the River Journey building, providing a quiet and comfortable space
These thoughtful amenities ensure that every family member, from the youngest to the oldest, can enjoy their visit to the fullest.
Reviews and Visitor Experiences
Don’t just rely on our words—consider the experiences shared by other visitors at the Tennessee Aquarium. Many guests have praised the friendly and knowledgeable staff, noting that they significantly enhance the overall visit. The staff’s enthusiasm and willingness to share information make each interaction a memorable part of the trip.
The layout of the aquarium has also received high marks for its easy navigation and clear signage. Rebecca C. shared her positive experience, stating that the aquarium was beautifully laid out and thoroughly enjoyable. Cleanliness is another aspect that visitors frequently commend, with many noting that the well-maintained environment contributes to a pleasant experience.
The variety of marine life on display is impressive and educational, offering a unique opportunity to learn about different species up close. Some highlights include:
Colorful tropical fish
Majestic sharks
Playful dolphins
Graceful sea turtles
Mysterious jellyfish
The diverse exhibits provide something fascinating for everyone, making it worth the search.
Contact and Additional Resources
For any queries or further information, the Tennessee Aquarium staff stand ready to help. You can reach them via:
Email at join-us@tnaqua.org
Phone at 800-262-0695, ext. 3400, and 423-267-FISH (3474)
Correspondence at Tennessee Aquarium Membership Dept., P. O. Box 11048, Chattanooga, TN 37401
They are always happy to help you plan your visit and answer any questions you may have about their website.
Learn more, visit the Aquariums to Visit in Driving Distance of Nashville.
Summary
As you can see, the Tennessee Aquarium offers a wide range of activities and amenities that make it a perfect destination for family fun. From interactive exhibits and educational programs to dining options and special events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The aquarium’s commitment to accessibility and family-friendly amenities ensures that every visitor has a memorable experience.
So, pack your bags, gather your family, and get ready to dive into a world of aquatic wonder. The Tennessee Aquarium awaits, promising a day filled with adventure, learning, and unforgettable memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are tickets to the Tennessee Aquarium?
Tickets to the Tennessee Aquarium are priced at $39.95 for adults, $29.95 for youth (ages 5-17), and children aged 4 and under enter for free.
Where is the Tennessee Aquarium located?
The Tennessee Aquarium is located at One Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402, about a two-hour drive south of Nashville.
What are the aquarium’s operating hours?
The aquarium is open from 10 AM to 5 PM on Sunday through Thursday, and from 10 AM to 6 PM on Friday and Saturday. So plan your visit accordingly!
Are there any discounts available for tickets?
Yes, Nashville Zoo Members, active military families, and veterans receive special discounts, as well as groups and schools. So there are various options available for discounted rates.
What kind of dining options are available at the aquarium?
You can enjoy seafood, American, and steak dishes at the Aquarium Restaurant, and catch unique entertainment like mermaid shows. There are also lunch spots in downtown Chattanooga. Sounds like a diverse and entertaining dining experience!
