Yes, Nashville has an aquarium downtown on the Cumberland River
The Aquarium at Opry Mills is Nashville's main aquarium, located at 301 Opry Mills Drive in the Opry Mills shopping complex on the east side of town. It opened in 2000 and holds over 10,000 animals across freshwater and saltwater exhibits. The building sits right on the Cumberland River, and many of its tanks use river water or are themed around river ecosystems.
The aquarium is about 30 minutes from downtown Nashville depending on traffic. If you're coming from the tourist district around Broadway or the Parthenon, you'll head east on I-40 toward Opryland. The Opry Mills complex is straightforward to spot and has its own parking lot. You don't need a car to get there — the WeGo public bus system runs routes to Opry Mills, though service is less frequent than downtown routes.
Key Takeaways
- The Aquarium at Opry Mills is Nashville's primary aquarium, holding over 10,000 animals in freshwater and saltwater exhibits.
- Hours are typically 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, though hours extend during summer months and may change for special events — check the website before you visit.
- Admission costs around $30 for adults and $20 for children ages 3 to 12, with discounts for seniors and military personnel.
- The aquarium sits inside the Opry Mills shopping complex, so you can combine your visit with shopping or dining nearby.
What animals and exhibits you'll find
The aquarium's main draws are its river otters, stingrays, and seahorses. The river otter habitat is one of the most popular spots — the otters are active and visible most of the day. There's a touch pool where you can handle starfish and other sea creatures under staff supervision, which works well for younger visitors.
The aquarium also features a walk-through tunnel with sharks and other large fish swimming overhead. Exhibits focus heavily on freshwater species native to Tennessee and the Cumberland River, alongside tropical saltwater tanks. The layout is straightforward — you move through the building in a logical path rather than doubling back, which makes it manageable with young children or if you're short on time.
Hours and admission prices
The aquarium is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the school year. Summer hours (typically June through August) extend to 9 p.m. on some days. Hours may shift for holidays or special events, so check the Aquarium at Opry Mills website or call ahead before you go.
Adult admission is around $30, and children ages 3 to 12 are around $20. Children under 3 are free. Seniors (65+) and active military personnel receive discounts of a few dollars. The aquarium sometimes runs promotions during slow seasons or offers discounts if you purchase tickets online in advance — it's worth checking their website for current deals.
Parking and getting there
Opry Mills has a large free parking lot. The aquarium entrance is clearly marked from the parking area. If you're using GPS, enter "Aquarium at Opry Mills" or the address 301 Opry Mills Drive directly — this will take you to the right lot rather than the general shopping center entrance.
If you're using public transit, the WeGo bus system serves Opry Mills, but routes run less frequently than downtown lines and the trip takes longer. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in Nashville and can drop you at the aquarium entrance. Parking at Opry Mills is free whether you're visiting the aquarium or shopping, so there's no additional cost beyond admission.
What to bring and how long to spend
Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours at the aquarium, depending on how closely you read the exhibit signs and whether you watch any scheduled animal talks. The aquarium is indoors and climate-controlled, so it's a good option on hot Nashville days. Wear comfortable shoes — you'll be standing and walking the whole time.
The aquarium has a small café inside that sells snacks, drinks, and light meals at typical venue prices. You can also eat at the many restaurants in Opry Mills before or after your visit. The aquarium does not allow outside food or drinks, so plan accordingly. Bathrooms are available throughout the building.
Special events and animal talks
The aquarium hosts scheduled talks and feeding demonstrations throughout the day — staff members explain animal behavior and answer questions while you watch. Times vary by day and season. Check the website or ask at the entrance when you arrive to find out what's happening during your visit.
The aquarium occasionally runs special events like extended evening hours, holiday-themed exhibits, or behind-the-scenes tours. These are announced on their website and social media. Some events require separate tickets or advance registration, so plan ahead if something specific interests you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food into the aquarium?
No, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium. The facility has a café with snacks and meals, and Opry Mills has restaurants nearby if you want to eat before or after your visit.
Is the aquarium stroller-friendly?
Yes. The paths are wide and flat throughout the building, and strollers are common. The aquarium is not crowded enough that strollers create problems, though busy weekends and school holidays may feel more congested.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
You can buy tickets at the entrance, but purchasing online ahead of time sometimes offers small discounts and lets you skip the ticket line. Check the aquarium's website to see current online pricing.
Is there anything else to do at Opry Mills besides the aquarium?
Yes. Opry Mills is a shopping mall with stores, restaurants, and a movie theater. The Grand Ole Opry concert venue is also nearby. Many visitors combine the aquarium with shopping or a meal at one of the restaurants in the complex.
How far is the aquarium from downtown Nashville?
The aquarium is about 30 minutes from downtown by car depending on traffic. It's located on the east side of Nashville near the Opryland area, not in the central tourist district around Broadway or the Parthenon.