Located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a popular tourist attraction that is perfect for families and individuals interested in marine life. The aquarium boasts an impressive collection of aquatic animals and provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the ocean and its inhabitants.
History of the Aquarium
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies was opened in 2000 and has since become one of the most popular attractions in Gatlinburg. The aquarium is a part of the Ripley Entertainment company, which operates several other attractions throughout the United States.
Exhibits
The aquarium has several exhibits that showcase a variety of aquatic animals. One of the most popular exhibits is the Shark Lagoon, where visitors can see several species of sharks up close. Other popular exhibits include the Penguin Playhouse, the Coral Reef, and the Touch-A-Ray Bay.
Shark Lagoon
The Shark Lagoon is one of the most popular exhibits at the aquarium. Visitors can see several species of sharks, including sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, and blacktip sharks. The exhibit also includes a tunnel that visitors can walk through and see the sharks swimming around them.
Penguin Playhouse
The Penguin Playhouse is another popular exhibit at the aquarium. Visitors can see several species of penguins, including gentoo, macaroni, and king penguins. The exhibit also includes a penguin playground where visitors can watch the penguins play.
The Coral Reef
The Coral Reef exhibit is a beautiful display of coral and other marine life. Visitors can see several species of fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, and clownfish. The exhibit also includes several species of live coral.
Touch-A-Ray Bay
The Touch-A-Ray Bay exhibit allows visitors to touch and interact with several species of rays, including southern stingrays and cownose rays. The exhibit also includes a shallow pool where children can play and interact with the rays.
Other Exhibits
In addition to the exhibits mentioned above, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies has several other exhibits, including the Tropical Rainforest, the Ocean Realm, and the Discovery Center. Each exhibit provides visitors with a unique and educational experience.
Events and Programs
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies offers several events and programs throughout the year. Some of the most popular programs include Sleep with the Sharks, which allows visitors to spend the night at the aquarium, and the Penguin Encounter, which allows visitors to interact with the penguins.
Visitor Information
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is open daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Admission prices vary depending on age and time of year. The aquarium also offers discounts for groups, as well as annual passes for frequent visitors.
Conclusion
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Gatlinburg, Tennessee. With its impressive collection of aquatic animals and educational exhibits, the aquarium provides visitors with an unforgettable experience. Whether you are interested in sharks, penguins, or coral reefs, there is something for everyone at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies.
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