Go "Under the Sea" at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley’s Aquarium Gatlinburg is an engaging attraction featuring numerous exhibits dedicated to “life under the sea.” With more than 10,000 exotic sea creatures comprised of more than 350 species, the aquarium boasts a plethora of things to see and do. There are 10 main sections of the aquarium, each one dedicated to a specific region or species of aquatic life.

When I visited the Ripley’s Aquarium I really enjoyed the Ocean section of The Living Gallery, which was home to a Pacific Giant Octopus, sea anemones, living corals, jellies and weedy sea dragons. The Coral Reef section was also beautiful, and the emperor angelfish, raccoon butterflyfish and clown triggerfish were all neat to see. The coral itself was impressive too and certainly worth a second look. The largest and most popular exhibit at the aquarium is the Shark Tank, which includes a 340-foot underwater tunnel. There is a glidepath through the tunnel, allowing for a leisurely trip where you’ll see stingrays, sawfish, tarpons, sharks, eels and more.

A Discovery Center for kids is also available. Guests can touch a horseshoe crab, learn about marine animals, test their knowledge and solve puzzles. Some of the other fun displays and exhibits at Ripley’s Aquarium include Stingray Bay, Touch a Ray Bay and the Rainforest display, home to exotic creatures like cardinal tetras, four-eyed fish, poison dart frogs, zebra cichlids, armored catfish and piranhas. The newest exhibit at the aquarium attraction is the Penguin Playhouse. Home to African Blackfooted Penguins, the indoor/outdoor exhibit includes a clear underwater tunnel so that you can get up close and personal to the interesting animals.

The Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a fun, interesting attraction that every member of the family will enjoy.