10 Best Aquariums in the US:
Aquariums offer a window into the fascinating underwater world. These marine wonderlands let you see colorful fish, fearsome sharks, and playful sea mammals up close. From giant kelp forests to tropical coral reefs, aquariums recreate diverse habitats from oceans around the globe.
10 Best Aquariums in the US
The best aquariums in the US combine education, conservation, and entertainment. You can learn about marine life, see cutting-edge research in action, and enjoy fun interactive exhibits. Whether you want to pet a stingray, watch penguins play, or see a giant octopus, top aquariums provide memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
Click here to see the best ethical zoos in the US
1. Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-see attraction on California’s coast. It is located on the historic Cannery Row in Monterey, offering stunning ocean views.
Inside, you’ll discover over 200 exhibits showcasing the rich marine life of the area. The aquarium houses 80,000 plants and animals, offering visitors the chance to see incredible sea creatures up close.
One of the highlights is the kelp forest exhibit where you can watch leopard sharks smoothly glide through towering kelp plants, just like in the wild.
They also boast an incredible attraction: a sea otter exhibit. These playful creatures are always a favorite among visitors. You’ll also find penguins, jellyfish, and many other fascinating marine species.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium isn’t just about entertainment. Its mission is to inspire ocean conservation. Visitors will learn about marine ecosystems and how to protect them.
Planning on spending a few hours exploring? The aquarium is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. The aquarium is a popular attraction among enthusiasts, so arriving early can help you avoid crowds.
Remember to bring your camera. You’ll surely want to capture memories of the colorful fish, mesmerizing jellyfish, and other amazing sea life you’ll encounter at this world-class aquarium.
2. Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is a great destination for ocean lovers. It’s one of the largest aquariums in the world, housing over 100,000 animals from 500 different species.
You’ll be amazed by the massive whale sharks swimming gracefully in the Ocean Voyager exhibit. This 6.3-million-gallon tank is home to four of these gentle giants, along with manta rays and thousands of other fish.
Don’t miss the playful beluga whales in their Arctic-themed habitat. You can watch these white whales glide through the water and interact with their trainers. The dolphin show is yet another fascinating experience where you’ll be entertained by these intelligent creatures as they perform acrobatic feats and demonstrate their natural behaviors.
The sea lion exhibit offers a unique experience for interacting with these charismatic and joyful animals that will charm you with their antics and loud barks. Dive into a colorful underwater world with the tropical coral reef exhibit and enjoy seeing fish, turtles, and other creatures in there natural habitat.
And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, try the shark cage diving experience. You can get up close with several shark species in a safe, controlled environment.
The Georgia Aquarium also focuses on conservation. You’ll learn about their efforts to protect marine life and habitats throughout your visit.
While you’re in Georgia, check out this travel guide Savannah.
3. Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium is located in Chicago, Illinois. It’s a marvelous aquatic site for anyone visiting the Windy City. The aquarium opened in 1930 and has been wowing visitors ever since.
At Shedd, you can see over 32,000 animals from aquatic habitats around the world. It houses fish, mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
One of the main highlights of the aquarium is the Abbott Oceanarium, where you can watch the lovely dolphins and beluga whales. The Caribbean Reef exhibit features a circular tank with a diver who feeds the fish and answers your questions.
The Wild Reef exhibit is something to be excited about, which recreates a Philippine coral reef. It’s home to sharks, stingrays, and radiant tropical fish. For a unique experience, check out the Polar Play Zone where you can see penguins up close and even touch sea stars and sea urchins in designated spots. The aquarium also offers special experiences. You can book a penguin encounter or even spend a night sleeping next to the Caribbean Reef tank.
Shedd Aquarium is committed to conservation and research. They work to protect endangered species and educate visitors about marine life.
You can easily spend a whole day exploring the exhibits and learning about aquatic animals. The Shedd Aquarium is open daily, making it a perfect addition to your Chicago itinerary.
4. Newport Aquarium
Newport Aquarium offers a fantastic underwater adventure. You can find it in Newport, Kentucky, just across the river from Cincinnati, Ohio. The aquarium boasts over 70 exhibits and 14 galleries. You’ll encounter thousands of animals from around the world here.
One of the most exciting features is the Shark Bridge which is basically a rope bridge that lets you enjoy a thrilling walk just inches above circling sharks. The “Surrounded by Sharks” tunnel is yet another similar experience where you’ll walk through a clear tunnel with sharks swimming all around you.
In the Gator Alley, you’ll come face-to-face with rare white alligators. These spine-chilling creatures are a sight to behold.
The Penguin Palooza exhibit is a crowd favorite. You can watch adorable penguins waddle, play, and swim up close. The aquarium’s Jellyfish Gallery is also astounding. You’ll see these charming creatures float by in vibrant, backlit tanks.
For a hands-on experience, visit the Touch Tanks. Here, you can gently touch sharks, stingrays, and other sea creatures.
Newport Aquarium also offers special programs. You can sign up for behind-the-scenes tours or even sleep with the sharks overnight.
With its diverse exhibits and interactive experiences, Newport Aquarium provides an exciting and educational visit for all ages.
5. Mystic Aquarium
Are you staying somewhere around Connecticut and interested in an a one-of-a-kind oceanic experience? then Mystic Aquarium is the destination for you. You’ll find a diverse collection of marine life here, including beluga whales, African penguins, and sea lions.
The crown jewel of the attraction is the Arctic Coast exhibit, where you can watch playful beluga whales up close. These gentle giants are sure to captivate you with their swaying movements and curious nature.
Don’t miss the chance to pet stingrays at the Ray Touch Pool. It’s a unique hands-on experience that both kids and adults enjoy. The smooth, silky feel of their skin would definitely surprise you.
For a special treat, check out the sea lion show. These intelligent animals perform impressive feats that showcase their natural practices.
The aquarium’s commitment to marine research and conservation is evident throughout. You’ll learn about their efforts to protect endangered species and preserve ocean habitats.
The Mystic Aquarium also features a 4D theater, offering immersive experiences that bring ocean adventures to life. It’s a fun way to enhance your visit and learn even more about marine ecosystems.
Before you leave, stop by the gift shop to pick up a souvenir. You’ll find plenty of high-quality ocean-themed items to remember your visit by.
6. Oregon Coast Aquarium
The Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport is another exciting destination for marine life lovers. At this top-ranked aquarium you can absolutely immerse yourself in the wonders of marine life.
With 15,000 animals from 300 different species, the aquarium offers a diverse and exciting experience. You can get up close to sea otters, seals, and fish of every color in beautifully designed exhibits.
While you’re there, be sure to check the underwater walkway. Here, you’ll feel like you’re treading the ocean floor as sharks and rays swim overhead. Also, don’t miss the seabird aviary, where you can observe puffins and other coastal birds in a naturalistic habitat. The touch pools are also a hit, allowing you to gently interact with sea stars and anemones.
The aquarium’s commitment to conservation is evident in its educational programs. You’ll learn about ocean ecosystems and how to protect them for future generations. Recently, the Oregon Coast Aquarium was recognized by Newsweek as one of the best in the U.S. This recognition is well-deserved, given the aquarium’s dedication to marine life and visitor experience.
Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring all the exhibits. The aquarium’s location on the beautiful Oregon coast makes it a perfect stop during your coastal adventure.
7. Seattle Aquarium
The Seattle Aquarium offers a fascinating peek into the marine life of the Pacific Northwest. You’ll find it right on the waterfront, making it easy to visit during your Seattle trip.
As you enter, you’re greeted by the Window on Washington Waters. This massive 120,000-gallon tank showcases local sea life. You can watch divers feed the fish as well as interact with the visitors.
The Underwater Dome is one of the first places to head to in Seattle Aquarium. You’ll feel like you’re walking on the ocean floor as fish swim above and around you. It’s a unique experience that brings you face-to-face with sharks, salmon, and more. The aquarium also offers hands-on experiences in the tide pools where you can touch sea stars, anemones, and other creatures that live in these coastal ecosystems.
The playful sea otters and harbor seals are also there to entertain the crowds. You can watch them swim, play, and eat during scheduled feedings.
The aquarium also focuses on conservation. You’ll learn about efforts to protect local marine environments and how you can help.
The Seattle Aquarium may be smaller than some others, but it packs a lot into its space. You’ll get a thorough look at the marine life of Puget Sound and beyond.
8. Tennessee Aquarium
The Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga offers you a unique freshwater experience. It’s split into two buildings: River Journey and Ocean Journey.
In River Journey, you’ll explore the path of a raindrop from the Appalachian Mountains to the Gulf of Mexico. You can see otters, turtles, and alligators in their natural environments. Ocean Journey takes you under the sea. Here, you’ll find colorful reef fish, sharks, and even penguins. The butterfly garden is a special treat, filled with free-flying butterflies.
The aquarium is home to over 12,000 animals from 800 species. You can watch divers feed fish in the massive tanks and even touch stingrays in special pools.
Don’t miss the IMAX 3D theater. It shows nature films on a six-story screen, making you feel like you’re part of the action.
The Tennessee Aquarium is ranked among the top aquariums in the US. It’s a great place to learn about water ecosystems and conservation.
Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here. There’s a lot to see and do. The aquarium is open daily, and tickets can be bought online or at the door.
9. National Aquarium in Baltimore
The National Aquarium in Baltimore should be in your list of sites to visit on your East Coast trip. Located in the Inner Harbor, this aquarium houses over 20,000 animals from 800 species.
You’ll be amazed by the diverse exhibits. The Blacktip Reef showcases a coral-filled ecosystem with blacktip reef sharks and a giant green sea turtle.
In the Tropical Rain Forest, you can spot sloths, birds, and golden lion tamarins. The exhibit recreates the sights and sounds of a real rainforest.
Be sure to check out the Dolphin Discovery area, where Atlantic bottlenose dolphins play and interact with their trainers. The Jellies Invasion exhibit is also a sight to behold. You’ll see different species of jellyfish floating gracefully in illuminated tanks. The Living Seashore exhibit lets you touch marine life. You can feel the texture of moon jellies and Atlantic stingrays.
For a unique experience, check out the 4D Immersion Theater. It combines 3D film with special effects like mist and seat vibrations.
The aquarium also focuses on conservation. You’ll learn about their efforts to protect marine ecosystems and rescue animals. Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours exploring. The National Aquarium offers a memorable and educational experience for visitors of all ages and is truly one of the best aquariums in the US.
10. Aquarium of the Pacific
The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is where marine life enthusiasts head to when they’re around California. You’ll find over 12,000 animals from about 500 species here.
As you explore, you’ll see colorful tropical fish, playful sea otters, and majestic sharks. The aquarium’s exhibits showcase the diverse marine life of the Pacific Ocean.
Shark Lagoon is where you can touch small sharks and rays. It’s a unique hands-on experience that kids and adults alike enjoy. The Lorikeet Forest is another fun stop. Here, you can feed these bright, friendly birds as they perch on your arm. Don’t miss the Tropical Pacific Gallery. It’s home to colorful coral reefs and exotic sea creatures from places like Palau and Indonesia.
The aquarium also focuses on conservation. You’ll learn about efforts to protect marine habitats and endangered species. Interactive displays help you understand ocean science and climate change impacts.
Special events throughout the year add extra fun. You might catch animal feedings, talks by marine experts, or even sleepovers at the aquarium.
Before you leave, stop by the gift shop for ocean-themed souvenirs. It’s a great way to remember your visit and support the aquarium’s mission.
Unique Aquarium Features
Many of the best aquariums in the US offer special exhibits and hands-on activities, which make visits more fun and educational for guests of all ages.
Themed Exhibits
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Tennessee has a Shark Lagoon where you can see different shark species up close. The Florida Aquarium recreates local wetlands with alligators and river otters.
At the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans, you’ll find a 4,200-square-foot Great Maya Reef exhibit. This showcases the underwater world of an ancient Mayan city.
Some aquariums feature habitats from far-off places. The Monterey Bay Aquarium has exhibits on Monterey Bay marine life. You can see colorful fish, kelp forests, and sea otters in their natural settings.
10 Best Aquariums in the US: Interactive Experiences
Some of the best aquariums in the US let you touch sea creatures in special pools. You might feel the rough skin of small sharks or the slimy texture of sea cucumbers. Some offer behind-the-scenes tours where you can see how the animals are cared for. You might help feed penguins or learn how water quality is maintained.
The Florida Aquarium has a free-flying bird exhibit. Here, you can walk among tropical birds in an open aviary.
Dive programs let you swim in tanks with fish and other sea life. These give you an up-close view of ocean creatures you’d rarely see while snorkeling or diving in the wild.
Best Aquariums in the US: Conservation Efforts
The best aquariums in the US go beyond entertainment. They work hard to protect sea life and teach people about ocean health. Many run programs to save endangered animals and use earth-friendly practices.
Click here to learn about the top 14 ethical zoos in the US
Best Aquariums in the US: Endangered Species Programs
You’ll find amazing work happening at the best aquariums the US to save rare sea creatures. The Georgia Aquarium takes part in rescue efforts for endangered animals like sea turtles and manatees. They nurse injured animals back to health and release them into the wild.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium runs a sea otter program. They rescue orphaned otters, raise them, and set them free. This helps grow the wild otter population.
Many of the best aquariums in the US also breed rare fish and coral in captivity. This creates backup populations if wild ones die out. You might see special tanks for breeding endangered species during your visit.
Best Aquariums in the US: Sustainable Practices
The best aquariums in the US teach you about ocean health through their own actions. The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago uses solar power and collects rainwater, which reduces its energy use and saves water.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium has a Seafood Watch program. It helps you choose fish that are caught or farmed in ways that don’t harm the ocean. You’ll see these guides at many restaurants and stores.
Aquariums also cut plastic use. Many have banned plastic straws and bags in their cafes and gift shops. You’ll often see reusable or paper options instead.
By visiting, you support these good deeds. Your ticket money helps fund research and save animals in the wild.
Best Aquariums in the US: Educational Programs
Many of the best aquariums in the US offer fun and informative programs for visitors of all ages. These include hands-on workshops, summer camps, and special tours for school groups.
Best Aquariums in the US: Workshops and Camps
You can join exciting workshops at the best aquariums in the US to learn about marine life up close. The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago hosts popular day camps where kids can feed animals and explore behind-the-scenes areas.
At some of the best aquariums in the US, you can sign up for overnight programs to sleep near the shark tanks. Multi-day summer camps let you dive deeper into marine biology topics. Hands-on classes teach you about ocean conservation and animal care. You might dissect a squid, design enrichment toys for otters, or learn to scuba dive in these interactive sessions.
Best Aquariums in the US: School Group Visits
Most of the best aquariums in the US welcome school groups with tailored educational experiences. You can book guided tours focusing on specific marine habitats or animals.
Many offer classroom programs tied to science curricula. Students might examine plankton under microscopes or touch sea stars in touch tanks. Some aquariums bring marine life to schools through traveling touch tank programs. Virtual field trips let distant classrooms connect with aquarium educators online.
Teacher workshops help you incorporate ocean topics into your lessons. Aquariums often provide free educational materials to enhance your visit.
Best Aquariums in the US: Frequently Asked Questions
The best aquariums in the US offer diverse marine life, family-friendly experiences, and unique features. From massive tanks to interactive exhibits, these aquariums showcase the wonders of aquatic ecosystems.
Which US aquarium is considered the best for marine life diversity?
Monterey Bay Aquarium in California stands out for its marine life diversity. You’ll see over 35,000 animals representing 550 species. The aquarium focuses on local marine habitats and conservation efforts.
What are the best aquariums in the US for families?
Georgia Aquarium is one of the best aquariums in the US for families. You can watch whale sharks, beluga whales, and playful sea otters. The aquarium offers touch pools and behind-the-scenes tours for an immersive experience.
What is the largest aquarium in the US by gallons of water?
Georgia Aquarium takes the crown as the largest. Its Ocean Voyager exhibit holds 6.3 million gallons of water. This massive tank is home to whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of fish.
Which US aquarium offers the best interactive experiences?
Shedd Aquarium in Chicago provides excellent interactive options. You can touch stingrays, feed sea otters, and even become a trainer for a day. These hands-on experiences create lasting memories for visitors of all ages.
Are there any world-renowned aquariums located on the US East Coast?
Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut is a top East Coast choice. You’ll find beluga whales, African penguins, and a variety of fish species. The aquarium is known for its research and conservation efforts.
What notable features distinguish the best aquariums in the US, Midwest?
Newport Aquarium in Kentucky offers unique experiences like walking across a shark tank on a glass bridge. You can also see rare white alligators and touch sharks in special exhibits.
What do you think are are some of the best aquariums in the US? Let us know in the comments!
