If you love animals and are looking for a unique wedding venue, Tennessee has some amazing options. Imagine saying “I do” surrounded by incredible creatures, from sea life to exotic animals, making your big day truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re dreaming of an underwater scene or a wild safari vibe, Tennessee’s zoos and aquariums have some fantastic spots for animal lovers to tie the knot.
Let’s dive into the top five zoo and aquarium wedding venues in Tennessee that are perfect for animal lovers:
1. The Memphis Zoo - Memphis
Located in Memphis’s Overton Park, the Memphis Zoo is a dream spot for couples who love animals. With over 3,500 animals and 500 species, you’ll have plenty of unique backdrops for your ceremony. You could even get married by the Zambezi River Hippo Camp, with hippos and crocodiles as your wedding witnesses! For a peaceful setting, their Japanese Garden with a koi pond is a beautiful option, or you can go rustic with the Teton Trek’s log cabin and scenic views. The zoo caters to weddings of all sizes and will help make your day unforgettable.
2. The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere - Nashville
At the Nashville Zoo, you can get married surrounded by exotic wildlife. The Jungle Terrace is a popular choice, with views of the flamingo lagoon and Gibbon Islands. For a larger gathering, the Croft Center offers a modern space for your reception, complete with animal encounters! Outdoor ceremonies in the zoo’s gardens are also a hit, and your guests will love the after-hours access to the animal exhibits.
3. The Tennessee Aquarium - Chattanooga
For an aquatic adventure, the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga is a stunning wedding venue. Say your vows surrounded by fish, turtles, and even sharks. The River Journey building features a 60-foot waterfall and lush greenery, while the Ocean Journey building offers saltwater scenes with butterfly gardens and penguins. This venue is perfect if you want an underwater oasis vibe for your special day.
4. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies - Gatlinburg
If you’re looking for something really extraordinary, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg has a 360-degree underwater tunnel where you can exchange vows as sharks and sea turtles swim around you. The Penguin Playhouse is another fun option, where you can celebrate with playful penguins! Ripley’s offers customizable wedding packages and a team to help bring your dream aquarium wedding to life.
5. The Chattanooga Zoo - Chattanooga
Though it’s smaller than some other zoos, the Chattanooga Zoo offers a cozy and exotic setting for your big day. The Deserts and Forests of the World exhibit is a cool backdrop, with camels and snow leopards nearby. Or, you can choose the Himalayan Passage for a whimsical ceremony among red pandas and langurs. With several locations to pick from, you can create a truly personal and wild wedding experience here.
Celebrate Your Love with a Wild Twist
Choosing a zoo or aquarium for your wedding adds an adventurous and meaningful twist to your day. Not only will you be surrounded by amazing wildlife, but you’ll also be supporting important conservation efforts. These unique venues offer the perfect blend of romance and nature, making your wedding day one to remember.
Ready to say “I do” in the wild? Tennessee’s zoo and aquarium venues are waiting to make your big day as unforgettable as your love story.
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