Chattanooga, TN, September 6, 2025
News Summary
The Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga is hosting its bi-annual College Days from September 10 to 30, offering college students and staff 50% off admission and discounted IMAX films. Eligible visitors can enjoy special screenings like ‘Shark Kingdom 3D’ and ‘Elephants: Giants of the Desert 3D’ for only $5. Discounts are available every day except Saturdays, making it an excellent time for academic communities to explore aquatic life and conservation efforts. The event will also feature a special presentation by conservationist Cristina Zenato.
Tennessee Aquarium Launches Bi-Annual College Days with 50% Off Admission and IMAX Films
Chattanooga, TN – The Tennessee Aquarium is inviting college students, faculty, and staff to its bi-annual College Days celebration from September 10 to 30, 2025. During this period, eligible individuals can enjoy a 50% discount on admission tickets and discounted IMAX films, making it a perfect opportunity for anyone within the academic community to explore aquatic life.
The IMAX films available during College Days include special viewings like “Shark Kingdom 3D,” featuring shark conservationists and their efforts, as well as “Elephants: Giants of the Desert 3D,” which tells the story of a baby elephant named “Little Foot.” Tickets for IMAX films will be available at a discounted rate of $5, down from the regular price of $9.95, applicable to all ages. The films, each approximately 45 minutes long, provide an engaging educational element to the Aquarium visit.
The College Days discounts are valid every day of the week except Saturdays. To obtain the discount, visitors must present a valid college ID, an academic transcript, or an employee pay stub. These discounted tickets can only be purchased in person at the Aquarium’s River Place ticketing center or at the IMAX 3D Theater box office, and the discount applies to the entire visiting party of the eligible individual.
With discounted admission rates, adult tickets will cost $20 instead of the regular $39.95, and youth tickets for ages 5-17 will be $15, reduced from $29.95. Admission remains free for children under the age of 5. Additionally, students can receive a 15% discount on annual memberships during this period for both Dual and Family Memberships, encouraging regular visits to learn more about aquatic conservation efforts.
The Tennessee Aquarium features a variety of attractions, including numerous freshwater species like river otters, penguins, and many types of fish. An exciting event to look forward to is a special presentation by conservationist Cristina Zenato after the screening of “Shark Kingdom 3D” on September 30. Zenato, known for her contributions to shark conservation and a member of the Women’s Divers Hall of Fame, will provide insights into her work and the importance of shark conservation.
The Aquarium operates on a timed-entry system to manage visitors effectively. It is recommended for guests to arrive early to secure their next available ticketing slot as there may be wait times. The benefits of College Days at the Tennessee Aquarium provide great value and an educational experience for anyone affiliated with a college or university.
For more information, including additional details and upcoming events, interested parties can visit the Tennessee Aquarium’s website at tnaqua.org/college-days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are College Days at the Tennessee Aquarium?
College Days is a special event where college students, faculty, and staff can enjoy a 50% discount on admission and discounted IMAX films.
When do College Days take place?
College Days will run from September 10 to September 30, 2025.
How can I receive the discount?
To receive the discount, guests must present a valid college ID, transcript, or employee pay stub when purchasing tickets in person.
Are there any restrictions on when the discounts can be used?
The discounts are not available on Saturdays but can be used any other day during the College Days period.
What are the prices for admission and IMAX films during College Days?
Admission prices will be $20 for adults and $15 for youth aged 5-17. IMAX film tickets will be $5 for all ages.
What attractions are available at the Aquarium?
The Aquarium features a variety of freshwater species, including river otters and penguins, along with educational films in the IMAX theater.
Will there be any special presentations during College Days?
Yes, Cristina Zenato will deliver a special presentation on September 30 after the screening of “Shark Kingdom 3D.”
Key Features of College Days
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Discount Duration | September 10-30, 2025 |
| Discount Rate | 50% off admission and IMAX tickets |
| Valid IDs | College ID, transcript or employee pay stub required |
| IMAX Film Titles | Shark Kingdom 3D and Elephants: Giants of the Desert 3D |
| Admission Prices | $20 adults, $15 youth ages 5-17, free for under 5 |
| IMAX Ticket Price | $5 for all ages |
| Special Presentation | Cristina Zenato on September 30 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chattanooga Hosts Exciting Labor Day Weekend Events
Tennessee Aquarium Enhances Teacher Education with ‘River Teachers’ Program
Samuel L. Jackson Honored in Chattanooga After Super Bowl Show
Additional Resources
- Local 3 News
- Wikipedia: Tennessee Aquarium
- Chattanooga Pulse
- Google Search: Tennessee Aquarium College Days
- Cleveland Banner
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga
- Nooga Today
- Times Free Press

Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.


