Situated on the picturesque banks of the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga, the Tennessee Aquarium is a mesmerizing destination that offers an immersive journey through diverse aquatic habitats. Since its opening in 1992, this non-profit public aquarium has been a beacon of education, conservation, and entertainment, drawing millions of visitors from around the globe.
The Tennessee Aquarium is divided into two main structures, with the River Journey building being the original and perhaps the most iconic. This 130,000-square-foot facility, equivalent to a twelve-story building, was once the largest freshwater aquarium in the world. The theme of River Journey is the Story of the River, which traces the path of a raindrop from the Appalachian Mountains to the Gulf of Mexico.
As you step into the River Journey, you are greeted by the Appalachian Cove Forest, a lush exhibit featuring River Otter Falls. This enchanting space is home to playful North American river otters, free-flying songbirds, and native fish species, all set against the backdrop of a cascading artificial waterfall. The exhibit's 30,000-gallon mountain sink is a tranquil oasis that brings the Appalachian ecosystem to life.
Continuing your journey, you will encounter Delta Country, which showcases the rich biodiversity of the Mississippi River delta. The centerpiece of this exhibit is Alligator Bayou, a captivating habitat for young American alligators and alligator snapping turtles. The swampy ambiance and the sight of these formidable reptiles make for an unforgettable experience.
The Rivers of the World gallery is a testament to the global diversity of freshwater ecosystems. Here, you can marvel at the aquatic life from the Amazon River, Congo River, and Fly River, among others. One of the highlights is Miguel Wattson, the electric eel with a Twitter account that posts pre-programmed tweets whenever it emits electricity. This eel even powered the lights on a Christmas tree in December 2019, adding a festive touch to the exhibit.
Another must-see is the Tennessee River gallery, which focuses on species native to the Tennessee River valley. The 145,000-gallon Nickajack Lake tank is the star attraction, featuring fascinating species like the American paddlefish and channel catfish. The River Giants exhibit is equally impressive, housing enormous freshwater fish such as alligator gar, arapaima, and redtail catfish.
The Ocean Journey building, which opened in 2005, expands the aquatic adventure by taking visitors from the river to the ocean. This 60,000-square-foot structure, akin to a ten-story building, contains a staggering 700,000 gallons of water and showcases the transition from freshwater to saltwater habitats.
The Secret Reef is the largest tank in Ocean Journey, holding 618,000 gallons and depicting the vibrant environment of the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary in the Gulf of Mexico. This exhibit offers three levels of viewing, including the Undersea Cavern, an immersive walk-through tunnel where you can observe sand tiger sharks, bonnethead sharks, and green sea turtles up close. One of the resident green sea turtles, Oscar, is a rescue animal missing much of its rear flippers due to injuries.
For those fascinated by invertebrates, the Boneless Beauties and Jellies: Living Art galleries are a visual feast. These exhibits feature corals, jellyfish, cuttlefish, giant Pacific octopuses, and Japanese spider crabs. The Jellies: Living Art gallery is a unique collaboration with the nearby Hunter Museum of American Art, blending the beauty of jellyfish with rotating exhibits of art glass.
Penguins' Rock is another crowd-pleaser, home to lively macaroni and gentoo penguins. These charismatic birds can be seen waddling onshore or swimming gracefully in their 16,000-gallon tank, providing endless entertainment for visitors of all ages.
The Tennessee Aquarium experience extends beyond its exhibit halls. The River Gorge Explorer, a 65-foot catamaran tour boat, offers daily excursions through the stunning Tennessee River Gorge. Boarding from Ross's Landing Park adjacent to the aquarium, this tour provides a unique perspective on the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.
The aquarium also boasts an IMAX 3D theater, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking films that complement the aquatic themes of the exhibits. This state-of-the-art theater enhances the educational experience, making it a perfect addition to your visit.
The Tennessee Aquarium is not just a place of wonder and entertainment; it is also a leader in conservation and education. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since 1993, the aquarium is dedicated to the preservation of aquatic habitats and species. Through various programs and initiatives, it plays a crucial role in raising awareness about environmental issues and inspiring the next generation of conservationists.
In conclusion, the Tennessee Aquarium is a treasure trove of aquatic marvels that offers a captivating journey through freshwater and saltwater ecosystems. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family looking for an educational outing, or simply someone seeking a day of discovery, the Tennessee Aquarium promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the aquatic world.
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