Ripley's Believe It Or Not Aquarium Gatlinburg
Introduction
If you're looking for a unique and exciting experience in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, then Ripley's Believe It Or Not Aquarium is the place to be. This aquarium is not like any other you've visited before, as it offers a range of unusual and bizarre exhibits that will leave you in awe. From interactive displays to live shows, there is plenty to see and do at Ripley's Believe It Or Not Aquarium.
History of Ripley's Believe It Or Not Aquarium Gatlinburg
Ripley's Believe It Or Not Aquarium in Gatlinburg is a part of the Ripley Entertainment company, which was founded by Robert Ripley in 1918. The company is known for its oddities, curiosities, and unusual exhibits, and has since expanded to include attractions all over the world. The Gatlinburg aquarium opened its doors in 1997, and has been a popular tourist destination ever since.
Exhibits and Attractions
Ripley's Believe It Or Not Aquarium is home to a vast array of exhibits and attractions that are sure to fascinate visitors of all ages. Some of the most popular exhibits include:
- The Shark Lagoon - this exhibit features a variety of sharks and other sea creatures, and visitors can even touch and feed some of them.
- The Penguin Playhouse - a habitat for African penguins that includes a crawl-through tunnel for visitors to get up close and personal with the penguins.
- The Tropical Rainforest - a replica of a rainforest, complete with exotic plants and animals such as poison dart frogs, piranhas, and anacondas.
- The Mermaid Show - a live show that features mermaids swimming in a tank, performing tricks and interacting with the audience.
- The Undersea Tunnel - a 340-foot long tunnel that allows visitors to walk through a tank filled with various sea creatures, including giant sea turtles and stingrays.
Educational Programs
Ripley's Believe It Or Not Aquarium also offers a range of educational programs for visitors, including:
- The Animal Encounters program - a hands-on experience that allows visitors to interact with some of the aquarium's animals.
- The Behind the Scenes Tour - a guided tour that takes visitors behind the scenes of the aquarium to see how the exhibits are created and maintained.
- The STEM Program - a program designed for school groups that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math.
Tips for Visiting
If you're planning a visit to Ripley's Believe It Or Not Aquarium in Gatlinburg, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and long lines.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Bring a camera to capture all the amazing exhibits and attractions.
- Check the schedule for live shows and plan your visit accordingly.
- Consider purchasing a combo ticket that includes admission to other Ripley's attractions in Gatlinburg.
Conclusion
Ripley's Believe It Or Not Aquarium in Gatlinburg is a one-of-a-kind experience that you won't want to miss. With its unusual exhibits, interactive displays, and live shows, there is something for everyone at this unique attraction. Whether you're a fan of marine life or just looking for something out of the ordinary to do in Gatlinburg, Ripley's Believe It Or Not Aquarium is definitely worth a visit.