The writing is a little snooty and pretentious, but I think the outsider’s perspective makes the article (login) worth a read. I have yet to visit the Aquarium, so anything I say is conjecture. From what I’ve heard, my concerns about it are the same as the author’s were here:
The lack of information and the inconsistency of imagination are strange, given the ambitions and accomplishments of this institution — including an educational program that draws schoolchildren with an apparently detailed curriculum. It is as if once the big effects were created, the creators relaxed into routine. Why though, is there a reluctance — here as in so many other museums — to provide real information for those who want it? Or to design exhibits that don’t just create atmosphere but spur understanding? The now requisite messages about conservation are pumped into a 3-D cartoon, but even they have no real import.
As I’ve come to understand from other people’s accounts, the focus on spectacle rather than on education, for better or for worse, is what seperates the Georgia Aquarium from Chattanooga and most other aquariums.






You know, I have to say that I found the aquarium to be very educational, but you have to want the education. For example there are volunteers at most tanks that can talk to children and adults about the fish in the fresh water exhibit.
There are videos that are about the endangerment of some of the animals at the aquarium, and at each post there is descriptions and material that you can read and learn from.
I think that aquarium is one of the few things this state has truly done right, and we probably need to support it and not help interstate politics drag it down. I have a season pass as does al the members of my family I have been multiple times, and each time I see, read or learn something new.
Yes you can walk through and be awe struck by the sheer size and spectacle of what it is, and the final salt water tank is one of the most amazing things you will ever see. However, you can take your time, read the signs, postings and talk to the people (which I am sure most of those criticizing have not done) and learn as much if not more than at the Chattanooga aquarium.
I feel alright commenting strongly on this having been a multiple year season pass holder to the Chattanooga Aquarium and having visited both multiple times.
Jeffrey,
Re:
Someone can’t just make an observation without it being politically-charged? I find that hard to believe. Contrary to the bubble you and I appear to live in, most people I know don’t apply a political value to most of their opinions.
Like I said, any opinion I have of the place now is speculative since I have yet to attend. I’ll reserve any real opinion of it until then.
Maybe we should do a blogger outting to the aquarium. We could all blog about it–maybe blorgy style or something…
The aquarium is a bit lacking in information and while the associates stationed by some of the bigger tanks are helpful, they aren’t standing by all the myriad of smaller tanks nor are they standing anywhere near the freshwater exhibit. As much as I enjoyed it, I already have a very good understanding of marine life so I spent much of my time there explaining to others about the various creatures on display.
It’s a well-done aquarium, but a little light on the substance. Say yes to more signage and more informative exhibits.
I look forward to going someday so I can learn that fish come in many shapes, sizes and colors.
Atlanta got an Aquarium???? Why does all the cool stuff happen after I leave?
Maybe we should do a blogger outting to the aquarium. We could all blog about it–maybe blorgy style or something…
Yeah…BLORGY!!!
I was really WOWed by the film shown on our local PBS station about the Georgia Aquarium. I bought season passes based on the film.
My husband & I took 2 friends (all of us for the first time) and the WOW was completely missing for all of us.
The exhibits were crowded, many only big enough for 2-4 people to explore. Only the first row of people could really see and absorb the views. Some fresh water exhibits were built so only toddlers could see. The rest of us had to crouch down on the floor, or be happy with the view from the top (which was less clear). The tunnel of the salt water exhibit was jam packed and the water was murky. Very disappointing, especially when the film portrayed this tunnel as huge and spacious.
The 3D film was juvenile and if anyone has been to disney world, this was a complete waste of additional admission.
It seems that marketing works. People are attending. The exhibits are uncomfortably crowded, but this is not the best aquarium out there. My brother-in-law has been to the Chattanooga Aquaium several times, and that place WOWs him.
Now i have useless season passes.