If you’re looking for something fun to do near Hixson TN, head over to the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga. This aquarium is home to tens of thousands of creatures and is one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world! Within its two buildings, you’ll follow the path of water from the mountains to the sea and come face-to-face with amazing animals from near and far. To help you plan your visit, we’ve put together this guide to the Tennessee Aquarium:
River Journey
When you visit the Tennessee Aquarium’s River Journey, you’ll encounter creatures from rivers around the world. This includes those native to the nearby Tennessee River and Appalachian mountain streams as well as aquatic creatures from distant continents. Learn about a variety of fish, eels, rays, and more as you explore the many exhibits. You can even see land and amphibious animals like snakes, alligators, turtles, frogs, salamanders, otters, and wood ducks in their respective habitats. From small darters to river giants, there’s a fascinating array of freshwater species to find at the Tennessee Aquarium!
Ocean Journey
The Ocean Journey at the Tennessee Aquarium lets you dive into an underwater world and discover some of nature’s most unique creatures. Come face-to-fin with sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles in the Secret Reef exhibit. You can also learn more about jellyfish, anemones, starfish, octopuses, and other invertebrates. Head to the tropics to encounter unique land and sea creatures, including lemurs, tortoises, catsharks, and more. Watch playful penguins at Penguins’ Rock and see a variety of flying beauties at the Butterfly Garden! There’s so much to explore from the land and sea!
IMAX Theater
One of the highlights of any visit to the Tennessee Aquarium is the IMAX Theater. This state-of-the-art theater utilizes laser projectors, surround sound, and a giant six-story screen to immerse you in a one-of-a-kind viewing experience. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the action on the screen! The theater features a rotation of various documentaries about unique aquatic creatures as well as full-length feature films. IMAX tickets are not included with aquarium admission and cost extra.
Planning Your Visit
Because there is so much to see and do, you should plan to spend at least two hours at the Tennessee Aquarium. General admission to the aquarium gives you access to both the River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings as well as all the exhibits and experiences along the main tour path. To help manage capacity, tickets are timed-entry and sold in 30-minute entry blocks. Once inside, you can tour the aquarium at your own pace. If you plan on visiting the Tennessee Aquarium more than once, you can purchase a membership to visit as many times as you’d like for a full year!
Where to Eat Near the Tennessee Aquarium
Exploring the Tennessee Aquarium is sure to work up an appetite! After your aquarium tour, you’ll want a hearty meal away from the crowds. Buddy’s bar-b-q is located just 15 minutes away in nearby Hixson TN. Enjoy flavorful Tennessee BBQ with large portions and an affordable price! Stop by Buddy’s bar-b-q in Hixson for a family-friendly dining experience that won’t disappoint!
