Get Your Fill of Jellyfish on Day Trips to Georgia, Tennessee Aquariums

By Scott Bernarde 

We're lucky to be within a relatively short drive of two of the nation's greatest aquariums—the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta and the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga.

Both have impressive displays that lure millions of visitors each year.

Have you been to both aquariums? Got a favorite? Let us know in the comments.

The Georgia Aquarium, located in downtown Atlanta, has the wow factor of whale sharks, bottlenosed dolphins, and beluga whales. It is the world's largest aquarium with one of the largest enclosed underwater viewing areas.

The Tennessee Aquarium, located 2 to 3 hours from the Atlanta area in Chattanooga, is the world's largest freshwater aquarium and includes two buildings—one for freshwater and one for saltwater. Its recently opened River Giants exhibit shows some of the largest freshwater species found on Earth.

Enjoy the big attractions at both aquariums, but do not miss their jellyfish displays. (See the accompanying video from the Tennessee Aquarium). You'll be captivated by the fluid movements of the moon jellies, Pacific Ocean sea nettles and others.

The spectacular Jellies Living Art exhibit in the Tennessee Aquarium's Ocean Journey building includes art with animal displays. Check out this YouTube video of baby jellies at the Tennessee Aquarium.

Find jellies at the Georgia Aquarium at Jelly Junction in the Tropical Diver Gallery. 

More on the aquariums:

Georgia Aquarium

Location: 225 Baker Street, Atlanta, GA 30313
Regular hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday-Friday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday
Tickets: Rates vary dependent on time and ticket package. A Total Ticket on weekends currently costs $28.95 (ages 3-12) to $34.95 (adult). Purchase tickets online.

Tennessee Aquarium

Location: One Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Regular hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas)
Tickets: $14.95 (kids) to $24.95 (adults). Buy online.