8 Awesome Aquariums to Visit in the New York Area

8 Awesome Aquariums to Visit in the New York Area

Family trips to the aquarium can be a magical adventure filled with colorful sea creatures and fascinating nautical species of all kinds. Spend a day exploring marine life at any of these aquariums in the New York area, where you’ll encounter the many wonders of the sea, including sharks, sting rays, moon jellies, clown fish and even beluga whales. If you’re feeling daring, you’ll have to visit the Adventure Aquarium in Camden, New Jersey, to walk across the suspension bridge that hangs over a 21-foot-deep shark tank!

• NYC
• Long Island
• Connecticut
• New Jersey
• Aquarium Live Streams

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Too Long, Didn’t Read:

• This guide covers top aquariums, including the New York Aquarium, Long Island Aquarium, Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, Maritime Aquarium, Mystic Aquarium, Adventure Aquarium, Jenkinson’s Aquarium, and New Jersey SEA LIFE Aquarium.
• The New York Aquarium in Coney Island is the only aquarium in NYC and the oldest in the country, featuring over 350 marine species and 18 shark and ray species.
• The Long Island and Connecticut aquariums offer hands-on learning, massive coral reef displays, and rare animals like beluga whales, sea lions, and penguins.
• The New Jersey aquariums add fun family experiences with themed exhibits, hippo and penguin encounters, and creative “City Under the Sea” designs.
• For those who can’t visit in person, live stream options from Monterey Bay, Georgia Aquarium, and Wildlife Conservation Society bring sea life directly to your screen.

Top Aquariums in NYC

New York Aquarium: Historic Aquarium in NYC with 350 Marine Species

602 Surf Ave, Coney Island

(718) 265-3474

The New York Aquarium, part of the Wildlife Conservation Society, is on 14 acres on Coney Island and is home to 350 marine species and 18 shark and ray species.

Address: 602 Surf Avenue, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY
Timings: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM
Pricing: Adults $29.95, Children $25.95, Seniors $27.95, Kids under 3 free
Specialty: The only aquarium in New York City. It has more than 350 species, including sharks, rays, and sea lions. Located next to Coney Island Beach, it’s managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society.

Plan Your Visit with These Simple Tips:

• Arrive Early: Plan to arrive right when the aquarium opens so you can explore comfortably before large crowds begin. Early mornings are quieter and make it easier to see popular exhibits.
• Check the Daily Schedule: Always visit the aquarium’s official website to see the daily schedule of animal feedings, shows, and special programs so you can plan your visit around them.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Choose comfortable walking shoes because you will be moving between several indoor and outdoor areas throughout the day. The paths can be long, and you’ll want to explore at your own pace.
• Carry a Light Jacket: Bring a light jacket or sweater, as some indoor exhibits are temperature-controlled and may feel cool compared to the outdoor areas near Coney Island Beach.
• Stay Hydrated and Snack Ready: Keep a water bottle and light snacks handy, especially if you’re visiting with children, since your visit may last several hours.

Top Things to Do in the New York Aquarium

• Sea Lion Show at the Aquatheater: Watch the popular sea lion show where trainers perform fun and educational demonstrations about marine animal behavior and conservation.
• Shark Tunnel Walk: Walk slowly through the impressive shark tunnel to see sharks and rays swimming above and around you, creating an exciting underwater effect.
• Conservation Hall Experience: Explore beautiful displays of coral reefs, jellyfish, and colorful tropical fish while learning how these species survive in their natural habitats.
• Ocean Wonders: Sharks Exhibit: Visit one of the most famous sections of the aquarium to see a wide range of marine predators up close.

Gift Shop Souvenirs: End your trip at the gift shop to pick up marine-themed toys, books, clothing, and keepsakes perfect for families and kids.

Top Aquariums on Long Island

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium: Freshwater Aquarium on Long Island with Amphibians

1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor

(516) 692-6768

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium is one of the most peaceful aquariums on Long Island, known for reptiles, fish, and outdoor ponds. This nonprofit center is dedicated to educating visitors about the freshwater ecosystems of New York. It has the largest living collection of New York State freshwater reptiles, fish, and amphibians. Tour two aquarium buildings and eight outdoor ponds, or feed the hungry trout.

Address: 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor, NY
Timings: Monday to Friday 10 AM to 5 PM, Weekends 10 AM to 6 PM
Pricing: Adults $7, Children $5, Seniors $6, Kids under 3 free
Specialty: A peaceful spot focused on local freshwater life. It has fish, turtles, frogs, and snakes. Visitors can walk around outdoor ponds, feed trout, and learn about New York’s rivers and lakes.

Plan Your Visit with These Simple Tips:

• Carry Some Cash: Bring a little cash for small entry purchases, fish food, or donations since not all kiosks accept cards.
• Best Time to Visit: Plan your trip in spring or early summer when the ponds are full of active fish, frogs, and turtles.
• Dress for Comfort: Wear light clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to stay comfortable while exploring outdoor areas.
• Talk to the Staff: Take a few minutes to chat with staff or volunteers who can share details about local species and conservation.
• Check Feeding Times: Ask about trout feeding times at the entrance to enjoy watching the fish splash and feed; kids love it.

Things to Do in Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium:

• Feed the Trout: Feed the trout at the outdoor ponds using fish food provided by the staff for a close view of their behavior.
• Indoor Aquarium Visit: Explore the indoor aquarium buildings to see freshwater fish, turtles, frogs, and snakes from New York’s rivers, lakes, and wetlands.
• Garden Path Walk: Take a relaxed walk through the scenic garden paths and stop by smaller ponds to observe aquatic animals and local plants.
• Educational Displays: Visit the indoor exhibits to learn about fish life cycles, the role of hatcheries, and how freshwater ecosystems are protected.

Capture Nature Moments: Bring a camera to enjoy and capture peaceful nature views around the hatchery’s calm, family-friendly setting.

Long Island Aquarium: Family-Friendly Aquarium on Long Island with Coral Reefs

431 E Main St, Riverhead

(631) 208-9200

The Long Island Aquarium is a lively aquarium in NY, where kids and adults enjoy coral reefs, sea lions, and a massive shark tank. Features one of the largest all-living coral reef displays in this hemisphere, a 120,000-gallon shark tank, year-round sea lion shows, numerous touch tanks, butterflies from all over the world, and more than 100 exhibits and interactive experiences, including Shark Dive, Penguin Encounter, Pirate Snorkel, and Shark Keeper. Plus, for an extra fee, you can board the Atlantis Explorer for a 2-hour cruise.

Address: 431 East Main Street, Riverhead, NY
Timings: Monday to Friday 10 AM to 4 PM, Weekends 10 AM to 5 PM
Pricing: Adults $42.99, Children $29.99, Seniors $31.99, Kids under 3 free
Specialty: Known for its large coral reef and shark exhibits. Visitors can see penguins, sea lions, and butterflies. Touch tanks and activities like Shark Dive and Penguin Encounter are also available.

Plan Your Visit with These Simple Tips:

• Arrive Early: Visit early in the day to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and get the best view of popular exhibits like the shark tank and coral reef display.
• Check the Schedule: Look at the aquarium’s daily schedule before visiting so you can plan around live shows, feedings, and special presentations.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Expect to walk a lot through indoor and outdoor areas, including touch tanks and open animal sections.
• Book Activities in Advance: Reserve experiences like the Shark Dive, Penguin Encounter, or Pirate Snorkel ahead of time since spots fill quickly.
• Plan Food Breaks: Carry light snacks or plan to eat nearby after your visit because you might spend several hours exploring.
• Bring a Camera: Capture the coral reef, butterfly garden, and shark tank; these are some of the most photogenic spots in the aquarium.

Things to Do at Long Island Aquarium:

• Shark Tunnel Experience: Walk through the massive shark tunnel and watch the 120,000-gallon tank filled with several shark species swimming around you.
• Sea Lion Show: Visit the lively sea lion show to see the animals perform playful tricks and interact with trainers in a fun, educational way.
• Butterfly Exhibit: Explore the beautiful butterfly garden where colorful butterflies fly freely around the enclosed space.
• Touch Tank Fun: Stop by the touch tanks to gently feel starfish, sea urchins, and other small marine creatures with staff guidance.
• Special Experiences: Join interactive adventures like the Shark Dive or Penguin Encounter for an exciting up-close experience.

Atlantis Explorer Cruise: Enjoy a two-hour boat ride where you’ll learn about local marine life and take in the scenic waterways near Riverhead.

Top Aquariums in Connecticut

Maritime Aquarium: Interactive Aquarium near New York with 75 Live Exhibits

10 N Water St, Norwalk

(203) 852-0700

The Maritime Aquarium is a landmark in Connecticut and home to nearly 75 live exhibits featuring more than 2,700 marine animals of 300 species, including jellyfish, sharks, tortoises, quail, porcupines, and sea bass. For an extra fee, you can see a movie in the aquarium’s 4-D theater.

Address: 10 North Water Street, Norwalk, CT
Timings: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM
Pricing: Adults $29.95, Children $24.95, Seniors $27.95
Specialty: Home to over 2,700 marine animals across 75 exhibits. Visitors can see sharks, jellyfish, sea turtles, and short 4-D films.

Plan Your Visit with These Simple Tips:

• Visit on Weekday Mornings: Come early on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy more time at interactive exhibits.
• Check IMAX Timings: Visit the aquarium’s website for movie schedules since IMAX tickets often sell out on weekends and holidays.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The aquarium covers several floors with indoor and outdoor sections, so comfortable footwear is a must.
• Plan Enough Time: Set aside at least two to three hours to explore the galleries, tanks, and special exhibits.
• Grab a Snack at the Café: The on-site café offers light snacks and drinks, making it easy for families with kids to take breaks.
• Arrive Early for Parking: Parking is available beside the aquarium, but it fills up quickly, so early arrival is best.

Things to Do at The Maritime Aquarium:

• Seal Feeding Sessions: Watch seals being fed and trained during scheduled sessions that are both educational and fun.
• Touch Tank Experience: Visit the touch tanks to gently feel rays, sharks, and other small marine animals under staff guidance.
• Ocean Journeys Exhibit: Explore displays featuring marine species from Long Island Sound and other ocean habitats.
• IMAX Film Experience: Catch an educational IMAX movie about ocean life, wildlife, or the environment.
• Marine Cruises: Take a themed boat cruise for seasonal seal watching or scenic harbor exploration.

Mystic Aquarium: Popular Aquarium near NY with Beluga Whales

55 Coogan Blvd, Mystic

(860) 572-5955

Mystic Aquarium is home to thousands of species of marine mammals, fish, invertebrates, and reptiles. Exhibits include beluga whales, sea lions, seals, sharks, penguins, octopi, clownfish, seahorses, sting rays, and jellyfish.

Address: 55 Coogan Boulevard, Mystic, CT
Timings: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
Pricing: Adults $39.99, Children $29.99, Seniors $35.99
Specialty: Famous for its beluga whales. It also has penguins, sea lions, stingrays, and sharks. Guests can watch feeding sessions and interactive learning shows.

Plan Your Visit with These Simple Tips:

• Start Early: Begin your visit in the morning to enjoy indoor and outdoor exhibits before crowds arrive, and capture great photos at the Arctic Coast habitat.
• Buy Tickets Online: Purchase tickets in advance to save time at the entrance and check for special events or feeding sessions.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll move between several large areas, from underwater galleries to open-air viewing zones, so good footwear helps.
• Pack Outdoor Essentials: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle for outdoor areas, especially on warmer days.
• Visit on Weekdays: Weekdays are quieter, giving you more time to enjoy watching the Beluga Whales and exploring touch tanks.
• Plan Enough Time: Set aside at least three hours to see the shows, explore science exhibits, and relax at the café.

Things to Do at Mystic Aquarium:

• Meet the Beluga Whales: Visit the Arctic Coast to see the famous Beluga Whales, one of the few places in the U.S. where you can meet them up close.
• Sea Lion Show: Enjoy a lively sea lion show that combines fun performances with lessons about marine life and conservation.
• Penguin Pavilion: Stop by to watch African Penguins waddle, swim, and play in their cozy coastal habitat.
• Indoor Galleries: Walk through softly lit galleries featuring jellyfish, reef fish, and small sharks in colorful underwater displays.
• Ocean Exploration Center: Try interactive exhibits, touch live tide pool creatures, and learn how deep-sea expeditions work.

Gift Shop Stop: Before you leave, visit the gift shop for ocean-themed souvenirs, plush toys, and fun keepsakes.

Top Aquariums in New Jersey

Adventure Aquarium: Exciting Aquarium near NYC with A Hippo Haven

1 Riverside Dr, Camden

(844) 474-3474

The Adventure Aquarium is a lively aquarium near New York, where families can see sharks up close and watch playful hippos swim. Attractions include Caribbean Currents, Creature Feature, Hippo Haven, the KidZone, Little Blue Beach, Ocean Realm, Penguin Park, Piranha Falls, Sea Turtle Cove, Shark Realm, Stingray Beach Club, Gill’s Grotto, and Touch A Shark. You can even walk just inches above the 21-foot deep Shark Realm exhibit on a V-shaped rope suspension bridge.

Address: 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ
Timings: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM
Pricing: Adults $44.99, Children $34.99, Kids under 2 free
Specialty: The only aquarium with hippos on display. Visitors can walk across a bridge above a shark tank and explore areas like Hippo Haven and Penguin Park.

Plan Your Visit with These Simple Tips:

• Arrive Early: Come in the morning to enjoy a calm visit and explore popular areas before they get crowded.
• Buy Tickets Online: Purchase tickets ahead of time to skip lines and check for any discounts or combo offers.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The aquarium is large with long walkways and tunnels, so comfortable footwear is a must.
• Bring a Light Sweater: Some indoor viewing areas, especially near the Shark Tunnel, can feel cool and breezy.
• Check the Show Schedule: Review the schedule at the entrance to plan around feeding sessions and animal shows.
• Plan for Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the on-site café or visit one of the many restaurants along the Camden waterfront.

Things to Do at Adventure Aquarium:

• Hippo Haven: Watch the two Nile hippos swim and play, with views from both underwater windows and the observation deck.
• Shark Tunnel Walk: Walk through the tunnel surrounded by dozens of sharks swimming beside and above you.
• Penguin Park: Stop by to see African penguins waddle, dive, and play in their cheerful aquatic area.
• Stingray Beach Club: Gently touch and feed stingrays as they glide past in this fun, hands-on experience.
• Ocean Realm: Explore a massive tank filled with sea turtles, colorful fish, and graceful rays.

KidZone: Let kids enjoy hands-on exhibits and small tanks designed especially for young explorers.

Jenkinson’s Aquarium: Family Aquarium in NJ with Penguins

300 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach

(732) 892-0600

The Jenkinson’s Aquarium is a cozy aquarium near NYC, perfect for families who want to see penguins, seals, and sea turtles up close. The aquarium’s exhibits give visitors the opportunity to get up close to animals from all over the world, including African penguins, harbor seals, local sea life, turtles, parrots, and sharks. For an extra fee, visitors can also participate in animal encounters to meet penguins and sloths.

Address: 300 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
Timings: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM
Pricing: Adults $16, Children $10, Seniors $12
Specialty: A small, family-friendly aquarium. It features penguins, seals, sea turtles, parrots, and small sharks. Visitors can book animal meet-and-greets with penguins or sloths.

Plan Your Visit with These Simple Tips:

• Visit Early: Come early in the day for a calmer experience, especially on weekends and during summer months.
• Check Feeding Times: Look up penguin and seal feeding schedules in advance; they’re among the most popular highlights.
• Arrive Before Noon: Parking near the beach fills up fast, so getting there before noon makes it easier to find a spot.
• Bring a Stroller: If you have young children, bring a stroller since the walkways are smooth and easy to navigate.

Things to Do at Jenkinson’s Aquarium:

• Penguin Feeding Time: Watch African penguins dive, swim, and interact with their trainers during feeding sessions.
• Seal Habitat: Visit the playful harbor seals as they swim and splash in their spacious pool.
• Colorful Fish Displays: Explore tanks filled with tropical fish, small sharks, and sea creatures from around the world.
• Touch Tank Fun: Stop by to gently feel starfish, sea urchins, and other small marine animals.
• Marine Rescue Education: Learn about local rescue efforts that protect and care for marine life along the Jersey Shore.

Enjoy the Boardwalk: After your aquarium visit, relax on the nearby beach, grab a snack, or explore the boardwalk attractions.

New Jersey Sea Life Aquarium: Themed Aquarium in NJ with Sharks

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford

(551) 234-6382

The New Jersey Sea Life Aquarium is known for its creative aquarium experience in NYC, featuring sharks, jellyfish, and playful fish in a city-style setting. This NYC-themed aquarium, dubbed the City Under the Sea, features exhibits with a nod to NYC’s most memorable moments—like Times Square, Fifth Avenue, rush hour, and Studio 54. Visitors will see sharks, sting rays, jellyfish, clownfish, seahorses, starfish, and more.

Address: 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ
Timings: Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
Pricing: Adults $29.99, Children $24.99, Kids under 3 free
Specialty: A themed aquarium called “City Under the Sea.” The tanks resemble New York City landmarks like Times Square and Fifth Avenue. You can see sharks, jellyfish, and tropical fish.

Plan Your Visit with These Simple Tips:

• Mall Location Advantage: The aquarium is inside the American Dream Mall, so you can enjoy shopping, dining, and nearby attractions in one visit.
• Buy Tickets Online: Purchase tickets ahead of time to skip lines and check for special offers or scheduled shows.
• Enjoy Indoor Comfort: The entire aquarium is indoors and air-conditioned, making it a great choice year-round.
• Plan Enough Time: Set aside at least two hours to explore the themed zones and exhibits at a relaxed pace.
• Bring a Camera: Capture bright tunnels, colorful displays, and fun city-themed backgrounds that make perfect family photos.
• Add Extra Fun: Families can also visit the nearby LEGOLAND Discovery Center to make it a full day of activities.

Things to Do at New Jersey SEA LIFE Aquarium:

• Ocean Tunnel Walk: Stroll through the tunnel and watch sharks and rays swimming all around you for an exciting underwater view.
• City Under the Sea: Explore creative exhibits that reimagine New York City landmarks in a playful underwater world.
• Jellyfish Display: Watch glowing jellyfish drift gracefully in color-changing tanks that create a calm, soothing view.
• Seahorse and Coral Reef Zones: Visit these sections to see small, colorful sea creatures and beautiful coral habitats.
• Feeding Talks and Presentations: Stay for short sessions to learn about ocean life, feeding habits, and conservation efforts.
• Gift Shop Visit: Before leaving, stop by the gift shop for sea-themed toys, books, and souvenirs to remember your trip.

A Quick Comparison of NYC’s Top Aquariums

Exploring the Aquariums of New York: A Guide to Marine Wonders

Aquariums in and around New York showcase a wide variety of marine life and play an important role in education and conservation. Each location offers something unique, from historic sites to large-scale exhibits that attract families and marine enthusiasts alike. Here are some key facts and details about NYC’s top aquariums:

1. New York Aquarium
   Opened in 1896, this is the oldest continually operating aquarium in the United States. It spans 14 acres on Coney Island and is home to more than 350 marine species, including 18 species of sharks and rays. 
2. Long Island Aquarium
   This aquarium features one of the largest living coral reef displays in the Western Hemisphere. It also includes a 120,000-gallon shark tank and more than one million gallons of water across its various exhibits.
3. Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium
   Known for its focus on local wildlife, this aquarium holds the largest living collection of New York State freshwater fish, reptiles, and amphibians. It provides an educational view of regional aquatic life.

Maritime Aquarium, Connecticut
Located nearby in Norwalk, this aquarium features 75 live exhibits with over 2,700 marine animals representing 300 species. It is known for hands-on learning and conservation programs that inspire visitors of all ages.

Aquarium Live Streams

Bring the aquarium to you with these live streams!

Monterey Bay Aquarium: California Aquarium in NY with Sea Otters

You can access ten live cams displaying different Monterey Bay exhibits, including sea otters, jellyfish, the open ocean, and more.

Timings: Live 24/7
Pricing: Free
Specialty: Offers live camera views of sea otters, jellyfish, and the open ocean.

Wildlife Conservation Society: Bronx Zoo with Views of  Aquatic Animals in NY

The Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo gives a unique aquarium view in NY through live streams of aquatic animals and underwater exhibits. The Bronx Zoo offers live cams of some of the hottest spots at the zoo, including some of their aquatic spots!

Timings: Live 24/7
Pricing: Free
Specialty: Features underwater animal live streams and sea habitats.

Georgia Aquarium: Virtual Aquarium Experience with Whale Shark in NY

The Georgia Aquarium offers nine live, underwater live streams, including the Ocean Voyager cam, which allows visitors to see the majestic Whale Shark in action.

Timings: Live 24/7
Pricing: Free
Specialty: Shows whale sharks, manta rays, and other marine animals through multiple live cameras.

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Conclusion

Exploring the aquariums in and around New York is a rewarding experience for families and marine life enthusiasts alike. Each location offers something special, whether it is the historic exhibits of the New York Aquarium, the coral reefs of Long Island, or the beluga whales in Connecticut. New Jersey aquariums add to the variety with interactive zones and themed experiences for children. For those unable to visit in person, live-stream options bring the underwater world right to your screen. Together, these aquariums provide an engaging way to learn about sea life, conservation, and the beauty of the ocean without traveling far from New York City.

FAQs

1. What are the top 10 aquariums in the United States?
   Some of the most popular aquariums in the country include the Georgia Aquarium, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Shedd Aquarium, National Aquarium, New York Aquarium, Long Island Aquarium, Tennessee Aquarium, Mystic Aquarium, Adventure Aquarium, and Oregon Coast Aquarium.
2. How many aquariums does New York City have?
   New York City has one main aquarium, the New York Aquarium, located on Coney Island. Other nearby options include the Long Island Aquarium, Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, and the Maritime Aquarium in Connecticut.
3. Is the New York Aquarium worth visiting?
   Yes. The New York Aquarium is worth visiting for its wide range of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea lions. It also features educational exhibits that focus on ocean conservation.
4. What is the most beautiful aquarium?
   The Monterey Bay Aquarium in California is often considered the most beautiful due to its scenic oceanfront location, massive kelp forest exhibit, and open-sea galleries filled with colorful marine life.
5. What is America’s best aquarium?
   The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is widely regarded as the best in the United States. It is home to whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of other sea creatures across its massive exhibits.

Which aquarium is the biggest in the USA?
The Georgia Aquarium is the largest in the United States, holding more than 11 million gallons of water and featuring over 100,000 marine animals.