CHATTANOOGA — Tuesday, the Tennessee Aquarium welcomed its 28 millionth guest, who received a surprise gift bundle.
The Beeler family from Dalton’s milestone visit was accompanied by a celebratory package featuring free Aquarium admission and a backstage tour, a Chattanooga Tourism Company VIP pass, gift cards to area restaurants and Scenic City-themed souvenirs. The Chattanooga VIP pass grants free admission to more than a dozen local attractions.
The Beelers moved to Dalton about 10 years ago and brought their oldest, River, to the Aquarium many times, but their youngest child, Ridge, had never visited.
“We’ve been trying to come for three weeks,” said Kandace Beeler.
“It kept getting bumped back, but we finally made it today,” Neal Beeler added.
Their children’s names, Ridge and River, are a fortuitous coincidence, as this was the family’s first opportunity to see the Aquarium’s most recent gallery, Ridges to Rivers. Featuring an array of freshwater fishes found in the headwaters of the Upper Tennessee River’s fast-flowing mountain streams, this collection of multi-sensory exhibits highlights the color and diversity of the region’s incredible — if often overlooked — aquatic life.
The Aquarium’s focus on freshwater has inspired three decades of lifelong learners to care about wildlife around the world as well as in their own backyard. Recently, the Aquarium’s dedication to educating visitors about aquatic ecosystems, industry-leading guest satisfaction and commitment to the highest standard of animal care contributed to its recognition as the best aquarium in the country through Newsweek Magazine’s Readers’ Choice poll.
The Beelers picked a fantastic time to visit as summer kicks off with a series of family-friendly happenings around the Aquarium.
— The Aquarium’s fountains, winding artificial stream and nearby Passage water feature recently became operational for the season.
— Inside the Aquarium, guests can enjoy a collection of animal portraits by National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore.
— Riverfront Nights, a free summer concert series, recently kicked off near the Aquarium on Ross’s Landing. It feaures weekly concerts every Saturday through Aug. 31. Also on Saturdays, the Chattanooga River Market features craft vendors, live entertainment and food trucks from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
— At the IMAX 3D Theater, guests can take in a trio of 45-minute films in 3D: “Flight of the Butterflies 3D” June 17-23; “Blue Whales: Return of the Giants 3D,” screened daily; and “The Arctic: Our Frozen Planet 3D,” screened daily.
The IMAX 3D Theater also offers a steady stream of first-run Hollywood movies. For a complete film schedule and advance ticket purchases, visit tnaqua.org/imax/.