The Tennessee Aquarium lived up to its reputation. My brother-in-law described its inhabitants to my daughter with promises to visit. Nine years later, we finally did, and although he was disappointed that part of the aquarium was closed for renovations, with little expectations, we were entranced.

With enough fish and exhibits to keep you busy for at least a couple of hours in its two buildings, the Tennessee Aquarium is located just a few hundred feet from the banks of the Tennessee River. Inside, ramps bring its visitors down level after level and then back up. In the River Journey, exhibits tell the story of the freshwater aquatic creatures and their habitats in the Chattanooga area. Alligators grinned at us, and fish and turtles made us smile.

In the Ocean Journey building, undulating jelly fish mesmerized us.

Tiny sea horses awed us. Waddling and diving penguins entertained us.

And butterflies flew among the orchids.

If you go, allow yourself plenty of time. The entrance fee is $24.95 per adult and $14.95 per child (3 to 12 years).