Ripley Aquarium of the Smokies
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From fossil remains, we now know sharks used to swim in the surrounding area long before the former sea bed rose up to become the Smokies. Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies brings the sharks and other amazing aquatic animals back to mountains in an amazing aquatic environment. Over 10,000 sea creatures comprising more than 350 individual species are here from tropical rainforest rivers, coral atolls and the deep oceans from throughout the world.
The aquarium has a family-friendly environment and is open year round with exhibits geared to all ages, ideal for youngsters and their parents or grandparents to explore together. Exotic species from piranhas to poison dart frogs will impress older children and teens alike and everyone will be enthralled by the Shark Lagoon and the hands-on-adventure of Touch-A-Ray Bay.
Exhibits include:
• The Tropical Rainforest and the Amazon River displays with fish, fresh water sting rays, piranhas and armored catfish.
• Touch-A-Ray Bay where patrons can reach out and touch rays as they glide past.
• Shark Lagoon with thousands of fish, turtles, sting rays and large tiger, sandbar and nurse sharks.
• Coral Reef from the Indo-Pacific with amazing colorful species including Clown Triggerfish, Emperor Angelfish, Raccoon Butteflyfish, Scrawled Filefish and the Bluespine Unicornfish.
• The Ocean Realm with with giant Pacific octopus, sea anemones, living corals, sea stars and jellyfish.
The Sea-For-Yourself Discovery Center with hands-on activities and the Cargo Hold Store gift shop round out the amazing list of things to see and do at the aquarium. Add the Feeding Frenzy restaurant which overlooks the Dangerous Reef exhibit and you are all set for an extended afternoon or evening visit by dining on their yummy casual fare.
Delightful any time, Ripley Aquarium of the Smokies can get a little crowded during inclement weather but since it is open year round, it is also a truly welcome event in the off-season.
Ripley Aquarium of the Smokies
88 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
phone: 865-436-6287
