Ripley's Aquarium Of The Smokies Directory
Introduction
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a popular tourist attraction located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It is home to a wide variety of aquatic life, including fish, sharks, sea turtles, and more. The aquarium offers a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Aquarium Layout
The aquarium is divided into different zones, each showcasing a different ecosystem. The zones include the Tropical Rainforest, Ocean Realm, Coral Reef, Shark Lagoon, Discovery Center, and Gallery of the Seas. Each zone has its own unique exhibits and interactive experiences.
Tropical Rainforest
The Tropical Rainforest zone is home to a variety of exotic creatures, including poison dart frogs, piranhas, and colorful birds. Visitors can walk through a replica of a South American rainforest and see the animals up close.
Ocean Realm
The Ocean Realm zone features a 340-foot-long underwater tunnel that allows visitors to walk through the aquarium's largest tank. The tank is home to a variety of sea creatures, including giant sea turtles, stingrays, and sharks.
Coral Reef
The Coral Reef zone features a replica of a coral reef ecosystem, complete with colorful fish and other sea creatures. Visitors can watch as divers feed the fish and interact with marine life.
Shark Lagoon
The Shark Lagoon zone is home to a variety of shark species, including sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, and blacktip reef sharks. Visitors can watch as the sharks swim overhead in a 750,000-gallon tank.
Discovery Center
The Discovery Center zone features interactive exhibits and educational displays that teach visitors about the ocean and its inhabitants. Visitors can touch a horseshoe crab and learn about the digestive system of a shark.
Gallery of the Seas
The Gallery of the Seas zone features a variety of exhibits that showcase marine life from around the world. Visitors can see seahorses, jellyfish, and other sea creatures up close.
Tickets and Hours
Tickets to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies can be purchased online or at the aquarium's ticket office. The aquarium is open daily from 9:00am to 9:00pm, with the last admission at 8:00pm.
Events and Programs
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies offers a variety of events and programs throughout the year, including sleepovers, birthday parties, and educational programs for schools and groups.
Conclusion
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Gatlinburg, Tennessee. With its diverse exhibits and interactive experiences, the aquarium offers a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Plan your visit today and discover the wonders of the ocean!