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The Renaissance Tower
Shoals Aquarium and Nature Center
Description
The Renaissance Tower is Alabama's tallest
tourist attraction. Built in 1991, the Tower stands 26 stories high and required more than
3,500 cubic feet of concrete, 500 tons of steel, 175 miles of wiring, and 550 feet of
natural gas piping to complete. The Tower is operated by the State of Alabama and is open
year around, seven days a week, except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
The Alabama Shoals Aquarium and Nature Center, located inside Renaissance Tower, is a
4,000 foot exhibit that consists of 40 aquariums and terrariums housing over 400 species
of fish and wildlife from North America and around the world. Public feedings are held on
Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 p.m.
While visiting the aquarium, don't miss the spectacular view from Renaissance Grille
Restaurant. Located at the top of the Tower, the restaurant overlooks the scenic Tennessee
River and historic Wilson Dam. The scenery and classic food offered by the Renaissance
Grille combine to provide a unique Shoals dining experience.
Renaissance Tower is also home to the Tennessee Valley Authority Exhibit and Museum. The
exhibit features an audio-visual history of TVA, the Tennessee River and Wilson Dam. There
is no admission charge and the tour lasts approximately 35 minutes.
Outdoors, the Dr. Whitey Hall Memorial Native Plant Garden is located on the north side of
Renaissance Tower. The garden is named in honor of Dr. Hall, a local botanist and
dedicated conservationist, and maintained by the Alabama Wildflower Society. The garden of
more than 200 identified varieties of native plants and wildflowers includes a walking
trail adorned with benches, sitting areas and a small amphitheater. |
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