Discovering Marine Wonders: The Best Aquariums in the US

15th July, 2024

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1. Georgia Aquarium

Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the Georgia Aquarium holds distinction as one of the largest in the world. Its massive tanks house a stunning array of marine species, including whale sharks, beluga whales, and vibrant coral reefs. Visitors can dive into interactive exhibits like the Ocean Voyager, home to awe-inspiring manta rays and massive schools of fish.

2. Monterey Bay Aquarium

Nestled along California’s picturesque coastline, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a unique focus on the diverse marine life of the Pacific Ocean. Highlights include mesmerizing jellyfish displays, playful sea otters, and the iconic Kelp Forest exhibit, showcasing the rich biodiversity of California’s underwater ecosystems.

3. Shedd Aquarium

Situated in Chicago, Illinois, the Shedd Aquarium delights visitors with its extensive collection of aquatic creatures from around the globe. From the Amazon Rainforest exhibit to the Caribbean Reef habitat, Shedd’s exhibits provide educational insights into ecosystems spanning freshwater rivers to tropical seas.

4. Aquarium of the Pacific

Located in Long Beach, California, the Aquarium of the Pacific offers a hands-on exploration of Pacific Ocean marine life. Visitors can marvel at playful sea lions, encounter colourful tropical fish in the Tropical Pacific Gallery, and learn about conservation efforts to protect endangered species like the Pacific bluefin tuna.

5. Mystic Aquarium

Set in Mystic, Connecticut, Mystic Aquarium combines interactive learning with marine conservation efforts. It is renowned for its beluga whale exhibit, where guests can observe these majestic creatures up close. The aquarium’s mission extends beyond entertainment, focusing on research and rehabilitation programs for marine mammals.

6. New England Aquarium

In Boston, Massachusetts, the New England Aquarium stands as a cultural institution dedicated to marine education and conservation. From the Giant Ocean Tank teeming with sharks and sea turtles to the captivating Penguin Colony exhibit, the aquarium offers diverse experiences for all ages.

7. Seattle Aquarium

Located on the waterfront of Seattle, Washington, the Seattle Aquarium showcases the rich marine life of the Puget Sound region. Visitors can explore interactive touch pools, observe graceful sea otters, and learn about local conservation efforts focused on protecting marine habitats and wildlife.

8. Adventure Aquarium

Situated in Camden, New Jersey, the Adventure Aquarium invites guests on a journey through aquatic environments from around the world. Highlights include Shark Realm, where daring visitors can walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, and the immersive Amazon Rainforest exhibit, home to anacondas and electric eels.

9. National Aquarium

Based in Baltimore, Maryland, the National Aquarium offers an enchanting underwater experience along the Inner Harbour. Its award-winning exhibits feature habitats ranging from the Australian Outback to the Atlantic Coral Reef, showcasing diverse aquatic species and promoting environmental stewardship.

10. Birch Aquarium

Perched atop a cliff in La Jolla, California, the Birch Aquarium offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean alongside engaging marine exhibits. Visitors can explore cutting-edge research in oceanography, observe colourful seahorses, and participate in educational programs focused on ocean conservation.

11. New York Aquarium

Located on Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York, the New York Aquarium combines a rich history with modern marine conservation efforts. Highlights include the Conservation Hall, where visitors can learn about efforts to protect local marine ecosystems and encounter marine life native to the New York coastline.

12. Tennessee Aquarium

Nestled in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Tennessee Aquarium showcases the unique freshwater habitats of the Tennessee River Valley and beyond. From playful river otters to interactive displays on Appalachian Cove Forests, the aquarium offers a deep dive into the region’s diverse aquatic ecosystems.

13. OdySea Aquarium

Situated in Scottsdale, Arizona, OdySea Aquarium surprises visitors with its expansive exhibits featuring marine life from around the world. Highlights include the Living Sea Carousel, where guests can observe mesmerising jellyfish displays, and the interactive Shark Waters exhibit, offering insights into shark behaviour and conservation.

14. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies delights visitors with its innovative exhibits and hands-on experiences. From the Penguin Playhouse to the Coral Reef exhibit, the aquarium blends entertainment with educational programs focused on marine conservation.

15. Audubon Aquarium

Set in New Orleans, Louisiana, the Audubon Aquarium offers a captivating journey through the Gulf of Mexico’s marine ecosystems. Visitors can encounter endangered sea turtles, explore a Caribbean Reef teeming with colorful fish, and participate in interactive feeding sessions with resident marine species.