Tennessee Aquarium's Year of the Turtle: New Exhibits, Events, and Conservation Highlights
In 2020, the Tennessee Aquarium is dedicating the year to celebrating turtles, home to North America's largest collection of freshwater turtles.
These vital reptiles play a crucial role in their ecosystems, yet face global threats. The Year of the Turtle celebration features special events and expansions across the River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings to educate visitors on their importance.
Follow Turtle Trail markers highlighting turtle species in exhibits, paired with a downloadable trail guide from guest services. This interactive experience fosters deeper appreciation, especially for younger visitors. In March, the new Turtles of the World gallery opens, showcasing turtle diversity in the American Southeast and Southeast Asia—key biodiversity hotspots. Four large exhibits allow views above and below the waterline as turtles bask, dive, and feed.
The gallery's highlight is a working turtle nursery, where visitors can observe Aquarium specialists caring for dozens of hatchlings, including endangered species.
In February, college students, faculty, staff, and scouting groups receive 50% off admission to the Aquarium and IMAX 3D Theater screenings through Feb. 29. Discounts apply to individuals and their party on tickets, 45-minute films, and combos. Scouts must wear uniforms or sashes; students show valid ID or transcripts; faculty/staff present pay stubs.
This offer is ideal during winter, as the Aquarium engages all senses—from touching a Lake Sturgeon's textured skin, hearing Ring-tailed Lemurs, to watching Gentoo Penguins swim.
Free daily animal programs feature River Otters, Sand Tiger Sharks, Panther Chameleons, and more, led by expert caregivers. View the schedule here.
Across the street, the IMAX 3D Theater screens Turtle Odyssey 3D, narrated by Russell Crowe, following a Green Sea Turtle hatchling's 1,000-mile journey. Also showing: Great Barrier Reef 3D and Superpower Dogs 3D. Check the schedule and buy tickets here.
Enjoy year-round fun with family memberships at tnaqua.org/members.
