Insider Tours at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga- Behind the Tank Magic
If you've ever wished you could explore the Tennessee Aquarium before the crowds come in—and maybe even catch the animals during their morning routines—this one’s for you. The “Insider Tours,” part of the Aquarium’s Deeper Dives series, offer a one-of-a-kind way to see Chattanooga’s most popular attraction from a whole new perspective.
Whether you're a local looking for a fresh experience or hosting out-of-town guests, this tour turns a beloved destination into something more meaningful. Expect quiet, early morning access, an up-close look at animal care, and some incredible stories from expert educators who clearly love what they do.
The Experience
The Insider Tours take place in the peaceful hours before the aquarium opens to the public. This makes a big difference—not just in the number of people around, but in the overall vibe. When you’re walking through the exhibits with just a handful of guests and a knowledgeable guide, there's time to slow down, ask questions, and really observe the animals.
Your 1.5-hour tour covers both River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings, hitting key tanks and exhibits with a behind-the-scenes twist. Ever wondered how the Aquarium cares for thousands of species daily? You’ll get a glimpse into the animal kitchens, life support systems, and more. Petting stingrays, spotting sleepy river otters, and watching penguins get their breakfast are just a few of the memorable moments you might encounter.
One of the most rewarding parts of the Insider Tour is the Aquarium Educator leading your group. These folks are passionate about conservation and incredibly knowledgeable about the animals in their care. They make the tour informative without it ever feeling like a lecture.
What to Know Before You Go
Availability: Insider Tours are offered Thursday through Sunday mornings. Tours begin before regular operating hours, so plan for an early arrival.
Cost: $50 per person ($45 for Aquarium members). This is in addition to general admission, so you’ll need a regular ticket or membership as well.
Booking: Advance reservations are required. You can book directly through the Tennessee Aquarium website’s Deeper Dives section.
Age Requirement: Guests must be at least 8 years old. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Group Size: Tours are limited to just 8 participants, so you’ll want to reserve your spot well in advance—especially during busier seasons. A minimum of 2 guests is required for tours to run.
Parking: The Aquarium offers parking through nearby garages and lots. The Republic Parking garage on Riverfront Parkway is the closest and most convenient. Shayna: Add your own tip about parking availability or validated options if applicable.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- Perfect Morning Pairing: After your tour, you’ll probably be ready for a good breakfast. Check out Bluegrass Grill (a local favorite for hearty morning meals) or Rembrandt’s Coffee House in Bluff View if you're craving pastries and espresso in a cozy garden setting.
- Make It a Day Trip: Since you're starting early, you’ve got the whole day ahead. Walk along the Tennessee Riverwalk, pop into the Hunter Museum of American Art, or spend time exploring Coolidge Park just across the Walnut Street Bridge.
- Great for Locals Too: If you’ve been to the Aquarium before and think you’ve seen it all, this tour adds a whole new layer. It’s especially fun with visiting family or curious kids who ask a lot of questions—because here, you’ll have someone to answer them.
- Holiday or Special Treat: This would make a thoughtful gift for a nature lover or a memorable birthday outing for a grade-school-aged kid. It's also a creative date idea for couples who want something beyond the standard dinner-and-a-movie.
Final Thoughts
The Tennessee Aquarium’s Insider Tour is a thoughtful, enriching way to engage with one of Chattanooga’s treasures. With early-morning access, small group sizes, and passionate guides, it feels like a VIP peek into daily life at the aquarium. Whether you’re seeing the river tank from above or watching jellyfish slowly pulse in quiet solitude, there’s something extra special about experiencing it all without the usual crowd.
This is a great experience for families with older kids, travelers looking for something off the beaten path, or locals who always meant to dig a little deeper into their own city.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Tennessee Aquarium’s Insider Tour: Behind the Tank Magic
Suggested Blogs
Plant Bar: speciality coffee, tea, zero-proof cocktails, & more in Asheville & Chattanooga
Plantbar: A TASTE-Test Review!
Nestled inside Asheville Dispensary, just a quick hop from downtown, Plantbar isn’t your typical coffee or juice shop—it’s a calm, plant-filled space that also offers specialty, zero-proof cocktails, good hangs, and a great spot to WFH from! They have bagels, live music, and all different types of coffee and tea, including boba- and you can request an add in- though i got my drinks without so I can’t speak to the nano cannibis infusion, however I know the staff is very knowledgeable about it all!
Whether you're seeking a specialty coffee, a zero-proof cocktail, or a matcha latte with adaptogens, this spot brings intention and creativity to every cup. And with a 4.9-star average on Google, it’s clear Plantbar has already earned a loyal following.
The Experience
Think light-filled interiors, houseplants as décor, and a relaxed energy that makes it easy to post up with your laptop or catch up with a friend. The bar is located inside AVL Dispensary—an Asheville-originated wellness shop that offers CBD, herbal blends, and holistic products—so you’re surrounded by a vibe that’s very much focused on slowing down and taking care of yourself.
The drink menu is where things get really interesting. You’ll find everything from espresso classics to creatively named zero-proof cocktails made with non-alcoholic spirits. There are teas, herbal infusions, and seasonal specials that rotate throughout the year. Each drink is crafted with high-quality ingredients, and many come with optional add-ons like CBD, functional mushrooms, or adaptogenic herbs.
It’s the kind of place where you can get your daily matcha, experiment with a house-made botanical soda, or try something new—like their non-alcoholic take on an espresso martini
What to Know Before You Go
Location:
Plantbar is located inside AVL Dispensary at 202 Manufacturers Rd Suite B, Chattanooga
Parking:
There’s a paid lot right next to the building, or you can usually find free parking across the street in the shared lot.
Price Range:
Drinks are reasonably priced for quality ingredients—expect coffeehouse-style pricing, with wellness upgrades costing a little extra.
Atmosphere:
Quiet, serene, great for solo visits, casual dates, or low-key meetings. It’s not a grab-and-go spot; it’s one you’ll want to linger in for a bit.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- The minimalist design and leafy greenery make it a great place for photos, especially if you’re into aesthetically pleasing latte shots.
-The green drink i’m drinking in the video is a MERTAIL! aka a mocktail but a little different. it’s like a healthier electrolyte drink - imitating the complexity and presentation of craft cocktails but with hydrating ingredients.
- This is not the best place for someone sensitive to the smells of a dispensary. The 2 are combined in one space!
Final Thoughts
Plantbar is one of those special places that feels a little tucked away, but once you find it, you’ll want to keep coming back. It’s perfect for locals looking for an inspiring new hangout or for visitors wanting a calm break in their itinerary. Whether you're deep into the wellness journey or just curious about a zero-proof take on your favorite drink, it's definitely a spot worth discovering.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Chattanooga’s First World-Class Wakesurfing Competition at the River Games
Chattawake & Chattanooga River Games 2025: What to Expect from This Action-Packed Weekend at Ross’s Landing
If you’ve ever thought Chattanooga was just scenic hikes and historic charm, think again. This summer, the city is cranking up the adrenaline with the first-ever international wakesurfing competition hosted right downtown as part of the Chattanooga River Games. Taking place August 15–17 at Ross’s Landing, this three-day event is bringing a whole lineup of extreme sports, global talent, and free family fun to the Tennessee Riverfront.
From world-class wakesurfers to Red Bull’s first-ever U.S. Creepers showdown, get ready for a weekend that’s shaping up to be one of Chattanooga’s most unforgettable outdoor events.
The Experience: Wakesurfing, Extreme Stunts, and Riverfront Energy
The Chattanooga River Games isn’t just one event- it’s a full-on festival packed with energy and talent. At the heart of it is Chattawake, the pro and amateur wakesurfing competition that’s drawing over 100 athletes from around the world. Expect to see riders from countries like Japan, Hong Kong, and across the U.S., all competing behind the legendary MasterCraft XStar for top honors. If you’ve never seen wakesurfing live, it’s a mix of balance, technique, and style—all set against the scenic flow of the Tennessee River.
But the action doesn’t stop on the water. Iconic extreme sports brand Red Bull is bringing its Creepers event to U.S. soil for the very first time. Known in Europe for its jaw-dropping displays of strength and coordination, Creepers features athletes climbing over-water obstacles that test both vertical grit and creative movement. It's going to be crazy!
Also on deck: the return of death diving (yes, that’s a real thing), professional slackliners attempting highlining feats above the Riverwalk, nightly live music sets, and rows of food trucks and vendors lining Ross’s Landing. Whether you’re all about high-flying athletes or just looking to relax by the river with great views and good eats, there’s something for every level of thrill-seeker.
What to Know Before You Go
Dates: Friday, August 15 – Sunday, August 17, 2024
Time: Wakesurfing competition runs daily from 8 AM to 3 PM. Other activities, live music, and vendors go into the evening.
Location: Ross’s Landing, 201 Riverfront Pkwy, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Admission: Free! All events and competitions are open to the public
Website/More Info: https://wakesurfchampionships.com/wsws_event/chattawake-2025/
Parking: Ross’s Landing can fill quickly, especially with this many attendees expected. Public garages are nearby on Chestnut St. and Aquarium Way, but you might want to consider biking or using a rideshare if you’re coming from downtown or the North Shore.
Extra Tips & Bonuses
- Come early for the best viewing spots along the water’s edge—especially if you want to catch the pro riders in action.
- Pack sunscreen and a refillable water bottle. August heat is no joke in Chattanooga.
- There are usually shaded areas and a few misting stations, but anything portable for comfort (like a travel chair or sunhat) will come in handy if you plan to stay a while.
- If you're coming in from out of town, the Edwin Hotel and The Westin are both within walking distance of Ross’s Landing—and give you great river views too.
- Pack a lunch or visit a food truck!
Families will find plenty to enjoy throughout the day, and the mix of sports and evening music makes this a great date night or group hang!
Final Thoughts
Chattawake and the broader Chattanooga River Games weekend is shaping up to be one of the biggest and boldest events in the city’s summer calendar. Whether you're already a fan of extreme sports or just want to try something totally different, this is a chance to see world-level talent, right in the heart of downtown—without spending a dime on admission.
Locals and visitors alike will find plenty to keep them entertained, inspired, and maybe even a little braver when trying something new themselves. Definitely one to check out, even if you’re just curious.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Holiday Lights in Chattanooga: Rock City’s 30th Enchanted Garden of Lights
Looking for holiday magic in Chattanooga? Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights is a must-see event happening now (November 15) through January 4th (closed December 24th). This year marks the 30th anniversary of this award-winning light display, and it’s bigger and better than ever!
For the first time in history, you can step inside the Rock City founder’s house, Carter Cliffs, to meet Santa and see a live action toy soldier. Another exciting addition this year is the chance to walk the famous swinging bridge at night, surrounded by breathtaking lights. As you explore, unique snow globes will guide you through the park’s different themed trail loops, making the experience even more magical.
Of course, all the Rock City classics are still part of the fun. Stroll through the enchanting Fairyland Caverns, challenge yourself at Fat Man Squeeze, marvel at the colorful Rainbow Hall, and take in the stunning views of Lover’s Leap and the waterfall. Each path offers its own unique charm, so there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
📍 Location: 1400 Patten Rd., Lookout Mountain, GA 30750 (just 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga)
🎟️ Tickets: Available on Rock City’s website: https://www.seerockcity.com/enchanted-garden-of-lights/
💡 Pro Tip: Need a cozy place to stay? Check out the Chanticleer Inn, located right across the street. They’re offering a special package right now that includes tickets to the Enchanted Garden of Lights, a gourmet hot cocoa bar, and extra holiday goodies.
Make this holiday season unforgettable by visiting Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights. Grab your tickets, bring your loved ones, and see why this event has been a Chattanooga favorite for 30 years.
For more magical Chattanooga experiences, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!