Immerse yourself in a world of water, wildlife, and wonder at the Tennessee Aquarium, one of Chattanooga’s crown jewels. Nestled along the scenic Tennessee River, this two-building aquarium leads visitors on a spectacular journey from the Appalachian Mountains to the depths of the ocean, featuring the nation’s largest collection of freshwater animals and countless opportunities for interaction, learning, and exploration.

Recommended For

Families: Enjoy a full day of fun with otters, penguins, sharks, and butterfly gardens—all in one place.

Animal Lovers: Experience up-close encounters, interactive exhibits, and educational programs about aquatic life.

Nature & Conservation Enthusiasts: Learn about freshwater habitats and the Aquarium’s real-world conservation efforts through TACI and AZA-SAFE.

Couples & Groups: Make it a unique date or group outing with IMAX screenings, river cruises, and behind-the-scenes tours.

What to Expect

  • Two Expansive Buildings: Explore the River Journey and Ocean Journey, each with immersive habitats and hundreds of species.
  • Interactive Programs: Touch stingrays, release butterflies, and watch SCUBA divers feeding reef creatures in real-time.
  • Accessible and Family-Friendly: All galleries are ADA-accessible. Recommended visit time: at least 2 hours to explore both buildings.
  • Convenient Access: Easily reachable via freeways, shuttles, or nearby parking garages in downtown Chattanooga.

River Journey Highlights

  • Appalachian Cove Forest & Discovery Hall: Begin at the river’s source with lush mountain scenery and swamp habitats teeming with fish, salamanders, and alligators.
  • River Otter Falls: Watch playful otters swim and dive, and catch Otter Enrichment activities or Keeper Talks throughout the day.
  • Mississippi Delta: Encounter reptiles, birds, and turtles while engaging in educational mini-programs like "Swamped with Turtles."
  • River Giants & Rivers of the World: Marvel at massive stingrays and Amazonian giants, then meet piranhas, anacondas, and exotic species from global waterways.
  • Tennessee River Gallery: Discover the ecological and man-made history of the Tennessee River—home to turtles and topminnows.
  • Seahorses: Beyond Imagination: A mesmerizing exhibit of reef-edge creatures including sea dragons, pipefish, and starfish.

Ocean Journey Highlights

  • Tropical Cove: Stroll through a rainforest filled with exotic birds like the hyacinth macaw and interactive bird programs.
  • Stingray Bay: Touch stingrays along the aquarium’s longest shoreline while learning from staff educators.
  • Butterfly Garden: Witness butterflies from around the world and join daily butterfly releases.
  • Penguins’ Rock: Observe Gentoo and Macaroni Penguins together in one of the only exhibits of its kind, with daily keeper talks.
  • Secret Reef & Undersea Cavern: Watch sea turtles, sharks, and tropical fish glide by in this massive reef habitat with dive shows held four times daily.
  • Boneless Beauties & Jellies: Living Art: Discover invertebrates from octopi to jellyfish in exhibits designed to blend science and art.

Programs & Experiences

  • IMAX 3D Theater: Catch stunning films like A Beautiful Planet on a six-story screen for a completely immersive experience.
  • Backstage Pass: Go behind the scenes to animal nurseries and touch tanks on a guided, small-group tour (advanced booking recommended).
  • Sleep in the Deep: Join a family or group sleepover beside a panoramic tank—wake up to breakfast surrounded by sea life.
  • River Gorge Explorer Cruise: Take a 2-hour river cruise to explore the wildlife, history, and scenic cliffs along the Tennessee River.

Conservation & Education

  • Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute (TACI): Dedicated to freshwater species preservation, education, and research in the Southeast U.S.
  • AZA-SAFE Member: Actively working to save endangered species like lake sturgeon and native trout through global collaboration and public engagement.
  • Student Opportunities: Offers fellowships, summer programs, and volunteer opportunities for high school students interested in conservation.

Visitor Info

  • Location: One Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402
  • Phone: 800-262-0695
  • Website: tnaqua.org
  • Accessibility: All exhibits and facilities are ADA-compliant.
  • Suggested Visit Time: 2–3 hours minimum to explore both buildings and optional IMAX or river cruise experiences.

Plan Your Trip