Turtles at Fernbank: Stranger Than Fiction, Slower Than Most

Fernbank’s newest exhibit, opening June 7, is called Turtles. Just Turtles. No exclamation mark, no clever subtitle. And honestly, that’s all it needs—because the animals themselves are doing the heavy lifting.

We’re talking about a species that hasn’t changed much since the dinosaurs bailed but still finds ways to outwit extinction (mostly). This isn’t just a lineup of cute tank dwellers and oversized photo props—though yes, there are climbable turtle sculptures, and yes, someone will absolutely take a “shell-fie.” But underneath the kid-friendly setup is a surprisingly wild mix of science, survival, and slow-burn charisma.

There are softshell turtles that look like leathery pancakes. There are turtles that resemble dead leaves—on purpose. You’ll see daily presentations with live animals, plus exhibits that actually explain what’s going on inside that shell and why it matters. The tone doesn’t talk down, and the weirdness is front and center.

Georgia gets its due, too. The exhibit gives real space to local species like the diamondback terrapin and the gopher tortoise (a keystone species with more underground tenants than a Midtown high-rise). Conservation is a major thread—Fernbank partnered with the Turtle Survival Alliance to spotlight how habitat loss, climate shifts, and illegal trade are pushing turtles closer to the edge. It’s not a guilt trip, but it doesn’t gloss things over either.

For those who want more sea with their reptiles, Fernbank’s also screening Coral Sea on the giant screen. It’s a glossy, underwater companion piece that follows marine conservation efforts around Papua New Guinea and Australia—plus it delivers the full IMAX treatment of turtles gliding through reefs like they own the place.

Turtles runs through September 1 and is included with general admission. Bring your curiosity, your camera, and maybe your patience—some of these stars aren’t in a rush.