Friday, May 11, 2012

Ripley's Aquarium- Gatlinburg, TN














Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies has really established itself as a quality attraction.
I got to go there for the first time recently and I was glad I did!
I read somewhere that this is a smaller aquarium than many others. This may be true, but they sure use their space effectively.
There is one attraction at this aquarium that easily makes it a must stop for all aquarium fans or visitors to Gatlinburg- the Shark Tunnel!
You are slowly moved on a conveyor belt under the shark tank, looking up and around you at the sharks and other animals.
I like the fact that you are moved, without walking, through the tunnels. It keeps the crowds moving, but you are going at a slow enough pace to appreciate it. This helps avoid the human traffic jams that can occur when groups walk along at their own pace.
The photo ops are great too! I got some fun photos of my wife literally next to sharks and rays!
The aquarium has the other attractions you would expect, and they are well maintained and accessible.
We did get there right when they opened and we felt that the place was not crowded or anything. We left after spending a few quality hours there, and we did notice the crowds coming in! Obviously, this is an attraction best visited early and on an off day.

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