Explore the Wonders of the Tennessee Aquarium
Discover diverse aquatic ecosystems at the Tennessee Aquarium, a must-visit attraction in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for families and nature enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Tennessee Aquarium
- 1 Broad St, Chattanooga, Riverfront, Tennessee, 37402, US
- +1423-265-0695
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Nestled along the scenic Riverfront of Chattanooga, the Tennessee Aquarium stands as a premier tourist attraction, inviting visitors to dive into a world of aquatic wonders. With its two main buildings, the River Journey and Ocean Journey, the aquarium showcases a remarkable variety of species that inhabit both freshwater and marine environments. As you walk through the immersive exhibits, you'll encounter everything from playful otters to majestic stingrays, all while learning about the importance of conservation and the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems. The River Journey building offers a unique experience as it features a stunning indoor river that winds through lush habitats, allowing guests to observe the vibrant ecosystems of the Tennessee River and beyond. The Ocean Journey building, on the other hand, transports you to the depths of the ocean, where you can marvel at the beauty of sharks, sea turtles, and colorful coral reefs. Interactive displays and touch tanks provide hands-on experiences, making it an educational outing for guests of all ages. In addition to the captivating exhibits, the Tennessee Aquarium also hosts various educational programs and special events throughout the year, ensuring that every visit is unique. Whether you're a family seeking a fun day out or a couple looking for an unforgettable experience, the aquarium promises an adventure that will leave you with lasting memories. Don't forget to explore the surrounding Riverfront area, where you can find parks, trails, and beautiful views of the Tennessee River to complete your visit.
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and have more time to explore the exhibits.
- Consider purchasing tickets online in advance for faster entry.
- Check the daily schedule for feeding times and special presentations for a more engaging experience.
- Don't miss the rooftop garden for a unique view of the aquarium and the river.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning marine life and beautiful scenery.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car from the Tennessee River Gorge, head northeast on TN-27 N towards Chattanooga. Continue for approximately 15 miles until you reach the exit for Broad St. Keep left at the fork and merge onto Broad St. Continue on Broad St for about 1.5 miles, and the Tennessee Aquarium will be on your left at 1 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402. There is parking available nearby, but be prepared for parking fees which can vary in price.
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Public Transportation
For public transit, take the CARTA bus route from the Tennessee River Gorge area to Chattanooga. You will likely need to take the bus to the downtown station. Once in downtown Chattanooga, transfer to bus route 4, which will take you to the Tennessee Aquarium. The bus fare is usually around $1.50 per trip, so keep some cash or a transit card handy. The aquarium is located at 1 Broad St, which is a short walk from the bus stop.
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Rideshare
Another convenient option is to use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply request a ride from your location in the Tennessee River Gorge to the Tennessee Aquarium at 1 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402. The ride should take about 20 minutes and costs will depend on the distance and time of day, but you can expect to pay between $20-$30.
Attractions Nearby to Tennessee Aquarium
- Aquarium Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden
- Chattanooga Visitors Information Center
- National Medal of Honor Heritage Center
- Ross's Landing
- Chattanooga Green
- RIVERFRONT
- Southern Belle Riverboat
- Chattanooga Ducks
- Ed Johnson Memorial
- Williams Stairway
- Creative Discovery Museum
- Wooden Horse
- Tom Otterness (b. 1952), Free Money, 2001, bronze, 3/3, cast 2006.
- Hunter Museum of American Art
- Classic Arcade Pinball Museum
Landmarks nearby to Tennessee Aquarium
- Chief John Ross Bridge
- Bluff Furnace Historical Park (Bluff Foundry Park)
- The Blue Rhino
- Santiago De Cuba Captured Cannon
- Tivoli Theatre
- Scotties On The River
- Area 61 Gallery
- The Dome Building
- West Village
- Waterhouse Pavilion
- Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul
- The Read House, Downtown City Center
- Patten Square
- Chattanooga Tourism Co.
- Bessie Smith Cultural Center and Chattanooga African American Museum