Aquariums are not just places to see fish—they are windows into the underwater world. The United States boasts some of the best aquariums in the US, offering visitors stunning exhibits, interactive experiences, and educational programs.
Whether you’re a family looking for a fun outing, a student interested in marine biology, or simply someone fascinated by marine life, visiting one of the best aquariums in the US is an unforgettable experience. This guide explores the top 10 best aquariums in the US, highlighting their unique features, exhibits, history, and visitor tips.
Table of Contents
Why Visiting the Best Aquariums in the US is a Must
Visiting one of the best aquariums in the US offers more than just entertainment:
- Educational Experience: Learn about marine ecosystems, endangered species, and ocean conservation.
- Interactive Exhibits: Many aquariums offer touch tanks, feeding sessions, and virtual reality experiences.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Kids and adults can enjoy hands-on learning, interactive games, and shows.
- Photography Opportunities: Stunning underwater photography is possible in immersive exhibits.
- Inspiration and Awareness: Helps visitors understand the importance of protecting marine life.
How We Ranked the Best Aquariums in the US
To identify the top 10 best aquariums in the US, we considered:
- Size of Exhibits: Larger tanks with diverse species provide a more immersive experience.
- Unique Features: Ocean tunnels, rare species, and interactive programs.
- Visitor Reviews: Consistently positive reviews from families and tourists.
- Conservation Efforts: Aquariums involved in research and environmental protection scored higher.
- Accessibility and Amenities: Family-friendly, educational programs, wheelchair access, and cafes.
Top 10 Best Aquariums in the US
1. Georgia Aquarium – Atlanta, Georgia
The Georgia Aquarium is the largest in the United States and one of the most famous best aquariums in the US.
- Exhibits: Home to whale sharks, beluga whales, manta rays, and thousands of other marine species.
- Unique Feature: Ocean Voyager Tunnel – a 100-foot underwater tunnel surrounded by swimming sharks and rays.
- Interactive Activities: Dolphin shows, behind-the-scenes tours, and touch pools for children.
- Fun Fact: The aquarium holds over 10 million gallons of water, making it one of the world’s largest.
- Visitor Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds at the dolphin show and popular exhibits.
2. Monterey Bay Aquarium – Monterey, California
Monterey Bay Aquarium is a world-renowned marine museum and educational center.
- Exhibits: Kelp forest, sea otters, jellyfish, and local ocean species.
- Educational Programs: Programs for schools, conservation workshops, and volunteer opportunities.
- Unique Feature: Open Sea Exhibit – features large pelagic fish, including tuna and sharks.
- Fun Fact: The aquarium has a focus on protecting endangered species such as sea otters and abalone.
- Visitor Tip: Don’t miss the sea otter feeding sessions—they are both fun and educational.
3. Shedd Aquarium – Chicago, Illinois
Located in Chicago, Shedd Aquarium is one of the most diverse aquariums in the US.
- Exhibits: Amazon Rainforest, Caribbean Reef, Polar Play Zone.
- Unique Feature: Caribbean Reef tank with 1.5 million gallons of water.
- Activities: Touch tanks, animal encounters, and live shows.
- Fun Fact: Shedd Aquarium was the first inland aquarium with a permanent saltwater fish collection.
- Visitor Tip: Allocate 3–4 hours for a full experience.
4. National Aquarium – Baltimore, Maryland
- Exhibits: Blacktip Reef, Australian waters, tropical rainforest.
- Unique Feature: Glass tunnels that immerse visitors in the marine world.
- Educational Activities: Interactive zones for children and adults, conservation-focused talks.
- Fun Fact: National Aquarium works to rescue and rehabilitate local marine animals.
- Visitor Tip: Use the aquarium app for guided tours and exhibit information.
5. New England Aquarium – Boston, Massachusetts
- Exhibits: Giant Ocean Tank, penguin colony, shark and ray touch tanks.
- Unique Feature: IMAX theater showcasing ocean documentaries.
- Activities: Whale watching tours from Boston Harbor.
- Fun Fact: The aquarium’s giant ocean tank contains a Caribbean coral reef and over 1,000 marine animals.
- Visitor Tip: Combine your visit with a whale watching trip for a full marine adventure.
6. Oregon Coast Aquarium – Newport, Oregon
- Exhibits: Giant Pacific octopus, sea otters, marine mammal center.
- Unique Feature: Outdoor tide pool exhibit allowing safe interaction with local sea creatures.
- Activities: Educational tours and volunteer programs.
- Fun Fact: The aquarium focuses heavily on native Pacific Northwest marine life.
- Visitor Tip: Visit during feeding sessions to see active marine life.
7. Dallas World Aquarium – Dallas, Texas
- Exhibits: Rainforest, coral reef, exotic species.
- Unique Feature: Multi-level rainforest with waterfalls, exotic birds, and free-flying animals.
- Activities: Educational tours, animal encounters, and seasonal events.
- Fun Fact: The aquarium combines terrestrial and aquatic habitats in a unique way.
- Visitor Tip: Allocate extra time for the rainforest level—it’s easy to miss.
8. Florida Aquarium – Tampa, Florida
- Exhibits: Coral reefs, wetlands, penguins, sea turtles.
- Unique Feature: Outdoor splash pad for kids to interact safely with water.
- Activities: Behind-the-scenes tours and volunteer programs.
- Fun Fact: The Florida Aquarium participates in local habitat restoration projects.
- Visitor Tip: Visit in the morning for interactive sessions and feeding shows.
9. Adventure Aquarium – Camden, New Jersey
- Exhibits: Shark Realm, hippos, touch tanks.
- Unique Feature: 360-degree shark tunnel for immersive viewing.
- Activities: Hands-on touch tanks, daily presentations.
- Fun Fact: Adventure Aquarium was the first in the world to have hippos on display in a public aquarium.
- Visitor Tip: Ideal for families and school groups looking for educational fun.
10. Tennessee Aquarium – Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Exhibits: River Journey, Ocean Journey, butterfly garden.
- Unique Feature: Focus on both freshwater and saltwater ecosystems.
- Activities: Animal encounters, interactive learning programs.
- Fun Fact: Tennessee Aquarium is a leader in freshwater conservation efforts.
- Visitor Tip: Allow time to explore both the River Journey and Ocean Journey sections.
Tips for Visiting the Best Aquariums in the US
- Check Tickets Online: Save time and avoid queues.
- Arrive Early: Especially for popular exhibits like tunnels and dolphin shows.
- Interactive Activities: Plan time for touch tanks, feeding sessions, and guided tours.
- Photography: Most aquariums allow cameras; wide-angle shots work best.
- Plan Meals: Some aquariums have cafes; others allow packed lunches.
- Accessibility: Verify wheelchair access and stroller-friendly paths.
FAQ – Best Aquariums in the US
Q1. What is the largest aquarium in the US?
- Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, with over 10 million gallons of water.
Q2. Are the best aquariums in the US family-friendly?
- Yes, all top aquariums offer interactive exhibits suitable for children.
Q3. How much does it cost to visit these aquariums?
- Prices vary from $20 to $50 per adult; check official websites for updated rates.
Q4. Can visitors touch marine animals?
- Many aquariums have touch tanks for safe, guided interactions.
Q5. Are guided tours available?
- Yes, most aquariums offer guided tours and educational programs.
Q6. Do the aquariums focus on conservation?
- Yes, top aquariums actively participate in marine research, animal rescue, and habitat restoration.
Visiting the best aquariums in the US is an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves marine life. From the gigantic tanks of the Georgia Aquarium to the immersive rainforest exhibits at the Dallas World Aquarium, each destination on our list showcases the diversity, beauty, and wonder of underwater ecosystems.
The best aquariums in the US are more than just entertainment—they are educational hubs, conservation centers, and places that inspire awe and curiosity. Whether you are exploring kelp forests at Monterey Bay Aquarium, watching playful sea otters, or walking through underwater tunnels surrounded by sharks, these aquariums give visitors a chance to connect with marine life in ways that textbooks and documentaries cannot.
Families, students, and marine enthusiasts alike can benefit from visiting the best aquariums in the US. These aquariums encourage hands-on learning, raise awareness about endangered species, and promote a deeper understanding of the importance of ocean conservation. Many of these top aquariums also host interactive programs, charity events, and volunteer opportunities, giving visitors a chance to actively contribute to preserving marine habitats.
In addition, the best aquariums in the US offer practical experiences for aspiring marine biologists, educators, and environmentalists. By observing feeding routines, conservation practices, and species-specific care, visitors can gain invaluable insights into how aquariums function as centers of research and sustainability.
Whether your goal is family entertainment, educational enrichment, or personal inspiration, the best aquariums in the US promise a unique experience that blends wonder, learning, and fun. From the East Coast to the West Coast, and from freshwater habitats to oceanic exhibits, these aquariums are true gems of marine exploration in the United States.
In conclusion, if you’re planning a trip or looking for a way to explore the underwater world without diving into the ocean, visiting the best aquariums in the US is an ideal choice. Every aquarium on our top 10 list offers something unique, from giant whale sharks to playful penguins, ensuring that your experience is both memorable and enriching.
So, pack your camera, bring your family or friends, and immerse yourself in the beauty of marine life by visiting one of the best aquariums in the US—where education, conservation, and entertainment meet in spectacular fashion.
