The Top 10 Family-Friendly Aquariums in the Country

Overview: The Tennessee Aquarium is divided into two buildings and offers a spectacular setting on Chattanooga's downtown riverfront. The River Journey showcases freshwater marine life, while Ocean Journey is the spot to see penguins, sharks, and more.

Go For: Ranger Rick's Backyard Safari, where kids can get up close and personal with some of the region's most interesting creatures and critters. They'll also love cruising on the River Gorge Explorer. The two-to-three-hour excursion on the aquarium's hydrofoil boat allows explorers to take in the local wildlife in its natural habitat.

Source: Tennessee Aquarium/Todd Stailey