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
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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!
GreenTech Homes Feels Like the Ideal Place to Raise a Family in Chattanooga, TN
Why The Farmstead by GreenTech Homes Is One of Chattanooga’s Most Family-Friendly Neighborhoods
If you’re looking around Chattanooga for the kind of neighborhood that feels like one big front porch—where kids ride bikes in the street, neighbors actually know each other’s names, and the homes look plucked from a small-town dream—you’ll want to take a drive through The Farmstead by GreenTech Homes in Hixson.
Whether you’re house-hunting or just a scenic-neighborhood-appreciator, this community stands out for its thoughtful planning, strong local roots, and future-forward amenities. Even better? It’s built by a Chattanooga-based company that’s focused on quality craftsmanship and community building—not just breaking ground and moving on.
The Experience
Located off Dallas Hollow Road in Hixson, The Farmstead feels like the kind of place where time slows down just a bit. Even during a short visit, you’ll likely spot neighbors chatting across yards, kids walking to play with friends, and house exteriors that look like something out of Magnolia Journal meets Americana.
GreenTech Homes, the local builder behind the project, brings a fresh take on neighborhood design. The architecture leans modern farmhouse, with lots of board-and-batten details, large porches, and cozy curb appeal. And while it looks timeless, the guts of these homes are very much up to today’s standards—energy efficient, smart layouts, and customizable depending on your lifestyle.
The community’s vision isn’t just about homes—it’s about what surrounds them. Some of the amenities still in progress (as of this writing) include:
- Neighborhood pool and pickleball courts
- Clubhouse with a dedicated yoga lawn
- Bicycle pump track for the kids (and sporty adults)
- A disc golf course
- Community garden
- Tree-lined walking trails
The vibe is welcoming and intentional, with an emphasis on creating real connections between families, not just building houses next to each other. And since the model homes are open for tours, you don’t have to guess what kind of quality and features GreenTech offers—you can see it for yourself.
What to Know Before You Go
Location:
The Farmstead is located in Hixson, TN, just a 15–20 minute drive from downtown Chattanooga. You can find the entrance near Dallas Hollow Road.
Tours:
Model homes are open for scheduled tours. You can visit GreenTech Homes’ website to book a time and get an idea of available floor plans, pricing, and current homesites.
Website: https://www.greentechhomes.com/
Phone: (423) 954-7561
Hours:
Model home tours and sales appointments are available most days of the week, but it’s best to call or schedule online to make sure someone is available.
Pricing:
GreenTech works with a range of budgets depending on home size and customization. See website above.
Parking:
On-street parking is available during visits, and there are small designated spots near the model homes for prospective buyers. Shayna: Add your own tip about parking and ease of access for tours
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- Can’t make it to Hixson? GreenTech has neighborhood developments across Chattanooga, including Northshore, East Brainerd, Southside, Ooltewah, and more—each with its own atmosphere and amenities.
- If you’re just driving through, nearby favorites in Hixson for a casual lunch or coffee include Nash Burgers, The Coffee Craze, and Little Tokyo Express.
- Considering a move but not ready to build? GreenTech sometimes has move-in ready homes available, or you can tour a few to get inspired for your next chapter.
- Interested in design? Pay attention to the interior finishes on the model homes. They really have an eye for details like natural light, high-quality flooring, and well-planned kitchens.
Final Thoughts
At a time when many new developments feel a bit generic or overly planned, The Farmstead has the charm of a neighborhood built with real intention. It’s the kind of place where families grow, dogs have room to roam, and neighbors actually chat over the fence.
Perfect for young families looking to settle down, couples hoping to stay within a strong community feel, or even locals ready to build their dream home in a familiar place—The Farmstead checks a lot of boxes.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Discover the Ultimate Relaxation Experience at Chattanooga Headspa
There's something truly AMAZING about finding a local gem that takes your mind far from the hustle and bustle of daily life, especially after a stressful week. Last weekend, I discovered exactly that at Chattanooga Head Spa—a sanctuary for serenity nestled at 1309 Panorama Dr. #115, Chattanooga, TN 37421. Whether you’re looking to spoil the special person in your life or simply indulge in a little self-pampering, this is the ultimate spot for relaxation. Trust me, spending a blissful afternoon here is like a mini-vacation!
The atmosphere exudes tranquility, with its soft lighting, calming music, and that oh-so-soothing scent that instantly melts away your stress. Their kind staff certainly know how to make you feel right at home. This video showcases my fourth visit, and at every visit I've had so far, I have met a different, AMAZING esthetician!
So, what can you expect during your visit? When you walk in, you're greeted with a short form and an array of complimentary snacks and drinks- because who doesn’t love a little treat while being pampered? The spa offers a variety of packages and specials to cater to your unique needs, and it’s worth keeping an eye on their Instagram for the latest and greatest offers. They are a sister spa with Last Loft and Brow bar where you can book facials, eyelash lifts, brow shaping, tinting and more! But my favorite is the head spa!
One of the standout features at Chattanooga Head Spa is their innovative scalp camera that you do before and after your head spa treatment, which shows you instant results from the service! Witnessing the transformation right before your eyes is just the cherry on top of an already stellar experience. Their massages, shampooing, and treatments are not only incredibly relaxing but also fantastic for your scalp health.
Whether you’re coming solo, bringing along your mom, or planning a day with friends, Chattanooga Head Spa will renew your spirits and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
So, what are you waiting for? Book yourself a slice of bliss, and be sure to follow @webbchatts on Instagram for more must-do experiences in Chattanooga!