Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies

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The Smoky Mountains are going undersea at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. There are more than 10,000 aquatic animals from around the world that call this educational center home. You can explore some of the world's finest elements of nature and wildlife, including 350 different species. The various exhibits take you on exciting adventures through the Tropical Rain Forest, the Ocean Realm, the Coral Reef, a Shark Lagoon, a Gallery of the Seas, the Sting Ray Bay and more.

You will have the opportunity to pet a sting ray at the Touch a Ray Bay exhibit, then explore the workings of the aquarium with a visit to the Systems Control. Crawl through the underwater tunnels at the Penguin Playhouse and watch as these energetic black and white creatures swim and twist and dive all around you. At the Gallery of the Seas exhibit, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of the most unique and outstanding species found underwater. Ripley's is known for presenting the world's oddities, and this place is no different. The Gallery of Seas exhibit shows you the strange cuttlefish, a relative to squids and octopuses, the latter of which can also be found in the tank. Sea nettles, or jellyfish, are also on display, with their long, flowing tentacles.

The Feeding Frenzy restaurant is on-site, in case you need to grab a bite to eat while visiting the aquarium. Dine among the graceful, gliding sting rays, then get a souvenir from the Cargo Hold Gift Shop to bring home with you. The Cargo Hold features marine gifts, as well as works from local artisans - including some of the penguins. Exhibits include:

• Brand New 4-Story Play House - 

  New to the Aquarium of the Smokies is the play house adventure area. Here, guests will be able to burn off some energy as they climb, slide, hop, and have a blast on four stories of fun obstacles. Explore Turtle Crossing and look out at the aquarium below in the observation bubble. There are so many awesome things to discover.

• Shark Lagoon - 

  This area features a huge 340-foot long glidepath which brings guests face-to-face with some of the largest animals at the aquarium. Guests can see everything from sandtiger sharks to tarpons, green mora eels, sea turtles, and giant stingrays. 

• Penguin Playhouse - 

  Get up-close and personal with some of the most playful and adorable creatures. This area features a huge indoor and outdoor habitat which houses dazzling penguins. Watch them swim, play, and socialize for a truly inspiring experience that you will not find anywhere else! 

• Stingray Bay - 

  This unique exhibit features a variety of unique ray species. Here, guests can learn all about the cownose ray, spotted eagle ray, and southern stingrays. See them up-close in awesome touch tanks and get a truly hands-on experience! Guests can also see bonnethead sharks and leopard sharks in this area. 

• Gallery of the Seas - 

  Discover 'Nature's Artwork' at this colorful exhibit. Here, guests can learn all about a wide variety of different creatures. See a stunning octopus, sea stars, corals, jellies, cuttlefish, lionfish, Japanese spider crabs, scorpionfish, and more! This whimsical and educational display will intrigue and spark the imagination. 

• Discovery Center - 

  The Discovery Center is the premier place to go for those who want to get a hands-on experience! This fantastic area features touch tanks and tons of information about the creatures housed here. Guests can touch moon jellies and learn about them alongside educators. Touch tanks are also available for horseshoe crabs and puffer fish. Guests can also participate in fun activities, puzzles, and more! 

• Coral Reef - 

  The Coral Reef exhibit is one of the most colorful displays found at the center. A few of the species of fish guests will see here include the regal blue tang, clown triggerfish, clownfish, sohl tang, butterfly fish, foxface rabbitfish, and more! There are also free dive shows that go on during the day. 

• Ocean Realm - 

  Take a glimpse underwater to see schools of fascinating creatures. The Ocean Realm exhibit is home to weedy scorpionfish, spotted garden eels, flounder, and more. There are tons of fish species in gorgeous schools for an educational experience. 

• Tropical Rainforest - 

  The rainforest is just as important as the ocean, and you can experience the marine life held in this jungle area at the Tropical Rainforest Exhibit. This exhibit houses piranhas arapaima, anableps, and colorful poison dart frogs.

You'll want to remember your time in the Smokies forever, and a visit here gives you the perfect chance to create lasting memories on your vacation. For the best experience, pair this with other family-friendly things to do!