The striking angles of the glass-topped twin aquarium buildings draw in passers-by strolling along the Tennessee River in the heart of Chattanooga. Inside, you can observe alligators, touch a sturgeon, marvel at penguins, and much more as you follow a drop of water on its path from a mountain stream to the ocean and discover the habitats along the way. Various aquarium education programs offer deeper dives into animal care and conservation.
Explore the aquarium on your own or get a Backstage Pass to go behind the scenes. A backstage Tennessee Aquarium tour lets you into the room where food is prepared for the aquarium animals, grants you access to the “keepers only” area, and gives you the chance to have an educational encounter with an animal that is not currently on exhibit. You can add to your aquarium experience by catching a show at the IMAX Theater.