Experts' Choice Award Tennessee Aquarium
What the experts agree on
Chattanooga's riverfront icon and top attraction, this massive freshwater aquarium traces the Tennessee River across two buildings with 12,000+ species—consistently rated best in the country for visitor satisfaction.
Lonely Planet "That glass pyramid looming over the riverside bluffs is the world's largest freshwater aquarium." Full review
Michelin Guide 2 Stars
"Housing more than 12,000 species of fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals on four levels, the aquarium's major exhibits trace the course of the Tennessee River from its origins" Full review
U.S. News & World Report2.0
"The Tennessee Aquarium is one of the world's largest freshwater aquariums, and easily Chattanooga's biggest attraction, contributing more than $100 million to the city's economy annually." Full review
Fodor's "Chattanooga's renaissance started on the riverfront and is still anchored by the Tennessee Aquarium, voted top attraction in the city by locals and one of the best aquariums in the country by tourists." Full review
Lonely Planet Top Choice
"From the freshwater exhibits in the River Journey building to the underwater voyage in the Ocean Journey building, the full depth of marine biodiversity is on display." Full review
Lonely Planet "More than 10,000 animals live at the Tennessee Aquarium across two massive buildings. Trace a raindrop's path from the Appalachians to the Gulf of Mexico in River Journey, one of the..."
Top 17 things to do in Chattanooga
August 18, 2021
Condé Nast Traveler "The Tennessee Aquarium is home to 10,000 animals representing over 800 species of marine life, including green sea turtles, pufferfish, and penguins. Younger visitors can marvel over..."
National Geographic "Stop by the renowned Tennessee Aquarium, spanning two buildings: The Ocean Journey features saltwater species from around the world, while the River Journey is dedicated to freshwater ecosystems and native species"
National Geographic "Chattanooga's Tennessee Aquarium is packed with wow‑worthy exhibits, from colorful tropical fish displays to a serene, tented Butterfly Garden where dozens of butterfly species fly among..."
10Best Winner
"Visitors to the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga trace the journey of water from the mountains to the sea within the aquarium’s two buildings. Guests enjoy meeting a broad array of..." Full review
