Chattanooga, Tennessee, July 27, 2025
News Summary
The Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is introducing new exhibits and attractions this summer, including a freshwater mussel exhibit and the debut of a Gentoo penguin chick. With enhanced interactive experiences such as petting stingrays, the aquarium promises to offer a thrilling experience for visitors. Operating daily with affordable admission prices, the aquarium remains a family-friendly destination that showcases the diverse marine life in the region.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
The Tennessee Aquarium is unveiling exciting new exhibits and features this summer, drawing visitors with its enhanced attractions and interactive experiences. Located just two hours from Atlanta, Georgia, the aquarium has been a popular destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
New Exhibits and Attractions
In April 2025, a new exhibit showcasing the rich biodiversity of freshwater mussels in the Tennessee River Valley was opened to the public. This area is recognized as the most biodiverse region globally for freshwater mussels, making the exhibit both educational and engaging. Visitors can learn about the crucial roles these species play in their ecosystems.
Adding to the excitement, a young Gentoo penguin chick hatched on May 29, 2025, and made its public debut around July 4. The chick has already captured the hearts of visitors with its vocal and playful demeanor, becoming a highlight of the aquarium experience. The aquarium also hosts daily gallery programs, allowing guests to observe feeding sessions for the penguins and participate in discussions with experts in the Butterfly Garden.
Gallery Sections
The aquarium comprises two main sections: the River Journey and the Ocean Journey. The River Journey features seven galleries that include attractions like the River Giants exhibit and the River Otter Falls. Meanwhile, the Ocean Journey consists of six galleries, where guests can marvel at species including sea turtles and sand tiger sharks in the Secret Reef gallery.
Enhanced Visitor Experience
In a recent update, the Giant Pacific Octopus has moved to a newly designed habitat within the Island Life gallery, which boasts enhanced viewing opportunities for guests. Unique interactive experiences are also available, including petting stingrays and sturgeons, further enriching the visitor experience.
Visitor Information and Amenities
The Tennessee Aquarium operates daily, with hours from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday to Friday, and extended hours on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The last entry is at 5 p.m. on weekdays and 6 p.m. on Saturdays. Admission prices are affordable, set at $39.95 for adults and $29.95 for children aged 5 to 17, with free entry for children under five. Membership options range from $135 to $275, offering families a chance to visit more frequently.
Visitors can take advantage of convenient accommodation partnerships with nearby hotels. Notable options include the Hotel Chalet at the Choo Choo, featuring refurbished train carriages, the Edwin Hotel located a quarter-mile from the aquarium, and the Read House, which has a vintage aesthetic and is less than a mile away.
Additionally, the aquarium features an IMAX 3D theater that showcases popular films, including “Superman” and “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” providing another layer of entertainment for guests.
Conclusion
As the Tennessee Aquarium continues to evolve with new features this summer, it remains a must-visit destination for individuals and families interested in marine life and conservation efforts. The combination of educational exhibits, interactive experiences, and convenient amenities enhances the overall experience, making it a valuable addition to Chattanooga’s cultural landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the admission prices for the Tennessee Aquarium?
Admission is $39.95 for adults and $29.95 for children aged 5 to 17. Children under 5 can enter for free.
2. What are the operating hours of the aquarium?
The Tennessee Aquarium operates from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Sunday to Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday.
3. Are there any interactive experiences available?
Yes, guests can enjoy interactive experiences such as petting stingrays and sturgeons at the Tennessee Aquarium.
4. What hotels are located near the aquarium?
Nearby accommodations include the Hotel Chalet at the Choo Choo, the Edwin Hotel, and the Read House, which are all convenient for visitors to the aquarium.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Freshwater Mussel Exhibit | Opened April 2025, highlighting biodiversity in the Tennessee River Valley. |
| Gentoo Penguin Chick | Hatched May 29, 2025; public debut around July 4. |
| River Journey Section | Seven galleries featuring River Giants and River Otter Falls. |
| Ocean Journey Section | Six galleries including viewing of sea turtles and sand tiger sharks. |
| Admission Prices | $39.95 for adults, $29.95 for children 5-17; free for children under 5. |
| Operating Hours | 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sun-Fri, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sat. |
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Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Tennessee Aquarium Educators
- Wikipedia: Tennessee Aquarium
- AJC: Chat with Divers at Tennessee Aquarium
- Google Search: Tennessee Aquarium
- FOX17: New Habitat for Lemurs and Octopus
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennessee River
- Kidding Around Greenville: Tennessee Aquarium
- Google News: Tennessee Aquarium Exhibits
- Chattanooga Pulse: New Lemur at Tennessee Aquarium
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.
