Tennessee Aquarium

The Tennessee Aquarium is one of the nation's premier aquatic destinations, offering an incredible journey from the Appalachian highlands to the ocean depths across two massive buildings. With over 12,000 animals, interactive touch tanks, playful penguins, and mesmerizing jellyfish galleries, this immersive experience keeps kids engaged and learning throughout their visit. The combination of freshwater and saltwater exhibits makes it unique among American aquariums.

• ✓Interactive touch tanks where kids can feel stingrays, sharks, and horseshoe crabs
• ✓Playful penguin exhibit featuring both macaroni and gentoo penguins
• ✓Secret Reef outdoor area with multiple touch tanks (seasonal)
• ✓Massive ocean tank with sharks, sea turtles, and colorful tropical fish
• ✓Freshwater river journey showcasing local Tennessee wildlife including otters and alligators

1. 1.Arrive right at opening (10 AM weekdays, 9 AM Saturdays) to experience the touch tanks before they get crowded and the animals are most active.
2. 2.Purchase combo tickets for both River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings online in advance to save money and skip the ticket line.
3. 3.Don't miss the daily feeding demonstrations and dive shows. Grab a schedule at the entrance to plan your route around these popular presentations.
4. 4.The Stingray Bay touch tank on the River Journey plaza is free and perfect for a break between buildings. Kids can touch cownose rays without a ticket.
5. 5.Park at the aquarium's garage on Chestnut Street for closest access, or use the free electric shuttle from Ross's Landing Park on busy days.

Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday through Thursday) for the smallest crowds, or arrive right at 9 AM on Saturdays. Avoid summer weekends and spring break when wait times for touch tanks can exceed 30 minutes. Winter months offer a quieter experience with full access to all exhibits.

Tickets are moderately priced ($$) with combo passes available for both buildings. The aquarium garage offers convenient paid parking. A cafe with kid-friendly options is located between the two buildings, and you're allowed to re-enter throughout the day with your ticket.

Open year-round with climate-controlled indoor exhibits perfect for any weather. The outdoor Secret Reef touch tank area typically operates May through September. Special holiday events include visits with Santa and extended evening hours during summer months.

Big River Grille & Brewing Works (two blocks away) offers a great kids menu and riverside patio seating. Sticky Fingers Ribhouse on Broad Street serves family-friendly BBQ with generous portions perfect for hungry kids after exploring the aquarium.