Tennessee Aquarium Celebrates Summer with Shark Films, Extended Hours, and New Exhibits
Photo by Gerald Schömbs on Unsplash
In The Know with Gino…
The Tennessee Aquarium is wrapping up summer with a splash of cinematic excitement and immersive aquatic experiences. Just in time for Labor Day Weekend, the IMAX 3D Theater is set to showcase the legendary film JAWS in a special 50th anniversary run, alongside the premiere of a new documentary highlighting the fascinating world of sharks.
Starting Thursday, August 28th, visitors can relive the suspense and iconic scenes of Steven Spielberg’s classic thriller, which first captivated audiences in 1975 and became the first summer blockbuster. The screenings will run daily through September 4th, offering a nostalgic and thrilling experience for movie fans.
But the Aquarium isn’t just celebrating Hollywood’s greatest shark tale. Recognizing the importance of sharks in ocean ecosystems, the IMAX theater will also debut “Shark Kingdom 3D” on August 29th. This stunning new film takes viewers on a global journey with shark conservationists and features close-up views of these majestic creatures in their natural habitats. Filmmaker Matt Tomaszewski emphasizes the unique storytelling power of the giant screen, noting, “There’s so much detail in their behavior and physiology that you just can’t get on a regular TV or smaller screen.”
Shark Kingdom 3D will be shown through March 2026, with daily screenings. Additionally, a special event on September 30th will feature scientist Cristina Zenato hosting a Q&A after a screening, giving audiences a rare opportunity to learn more about sharks and their conservation.
While Hollywood has long cast sharks as villains, the Tennessee Aquarium has dedicated itself to showcasing their vital ecological role. Visitors can observe graceful Sandbar and Sand Tiger Sharks in the expansive 618,000-gallon Secret Reef exhibit or get hands-on with smaller species like Coral Catsharks and Epaulette Sharks in Stingray Bay’s touch experience, fostering a more positive understanding of these often-misunderstood predators.
To make the most of the late summer days, the Aquarium is extending its hours from August 29th through September 1st, opening at 9 a.m. daily and adding an extra hour on Saturday, August 30th, with last entry at 6 p.m., allowing guests more time to explore and enjoy.
In celebration of Labor Day, visitors can also take advantage of a new combo ticket offering access to both the Aquarium and nearby Rock City Gardens—perfect for a full day of adventure. Priced at $59 for adults and $49 for children aged 5-17 (children under 5 are free), these tickets provide a savings of $10 compared to purchasing each attraction separately. Tickets are available online at tnaqua.org/rock-city-combo-ticket.
For those eager to observe marine life in real time, the Aquarium’s Secret Reef exhibit features a live webcam showcasing Sandbar and Sand Tiger Sharks in their habitat, accessible at tnaqua.org/live/secret-reef.
Whether catching a classic film, exploring the vibrant ocean exhibits, or experiencing the thrill of new shark documentaries, the Tennessee Aquarium offers a dynamic end to summer that’s truly fin-tastic.
SOURCE: Chattanooga Pulse
