Chattanooga on the Cheap

Aquatic biologist. Riverboat Captain. Zookeeper.

No, that isn’t a list of what I wanted to be when I grew up (okay, maybe the aquatic biologist), but what can be found at Chattanooga’s Spring Break Safaris. These programs allow children, ages five and up, to experience the inner workings of some of Chattanooga’s best-known and loved attractions.

And parents, not only are these fun and educational, but affordable as well.

Here’s a sampling of some of the safaris happening during March and April.

• One of Tennessee Aquarium’s programs is the Captain’s Morning River Safari that allows children to learn about what it takes to pilot the River Gorge Explorer. During the session, participants do a walk-through with the captain prior to the boat leaving the pier and then once cruising on Tennessee’s Grand Canyon, they can learn more about the area with a naturalist. (March 20 - April 2, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. April 3 - 17, 9:30 a.m. - noon. $36/participant; $31 for members. Morning tours must be reserved by 6 p.m. the night before and prepayment is required. Reservations can be made by calling 800/262-0695.)
• Ruby Falls takes everyone on a behind-the-scenes, partially dark lantern tour that includes a free miner helmet (with batteries) for the kids. The guided tour explores a part of the cave that’s typically not accessible to the public. Participants learn all about the cave, formations and waterfall. (Monday-Wednesday, beginning on March 16, followed by April 1. The two- to three-hour program begins at 9 a.m. $20/participants. Call 423/821-2544, ext. 142, for age minimum requirement and to make reservations.)
• For those who love the outdoors, consider Rock City’s RockQuest Adventure. This safari focuses on the natural scenery found here. The RockQuest Guide introduces everyone to various plants and flowers as well as rock formations and wildlife. Be prepared to walk! (through April 19, 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. The self-guided tour takes about two hours. Open to all ages. $13.95/child and $16.95 and includes admission to Rocky City. No reservations are required since it’s a self-guided tour.)

photo credit: Lover’s Leap at Rock City, flickr, creative commons by ss_kriegsberichter