Are you looking for the best aquariums in the United States? If so, you've come to the right place. From west coast wonders to east coast favorites, we'll look at some of America's top-notch aquariums that are essential visits for any lover of sea life.
We'll explore what makes each unique and why they consistently rank high among those seeking memorable marine experiences – from hands-on encounters with stingrays and sharks to beautiful jellyfish displays and beyond.
Read on to discover some of the best aquariums in the US – perfect places whether you’re near or far!
Monterey Bay Aquarium, California – Home to amazing marine life and activities for the whole family.
Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, California, is one of the best aquariums in the US. It’s a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the wonders of marine life.
This world-class facility features various sea creatures and activities, including hands-on experiences with stingrays and sharks, beautiful jellyfish displays, and more.It's also home to one of the nation's largest selections of sea otters and a touch pool full of vibrant tidepools.
The aquarium is not only educational but incredibly interactive too. Guests can learn about ocean health through informative videos and hands-on activities or view stunning exhibitions featuring different types of sea life.
The aquarium offers children a wide range of activities and classes, from behind-the-scenes tours to tidepool exploration.
Monterey Bay Aquarium is an unforgettable experience that brings together adventure and education in a way no other location can. By visiting this amazing facility, you’ll be able to explore the mysteries of sea life and gain an appreciation for the importance of ocean conservation. It’s truly a unique experience, making it one of the best aquariums in the US.
Shedd Aquarium, Illinois - Explore the largest indoor aquarium in the world with over 32,000 species of aquatic life.
Visiting Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Illinois, is an experience. Ranked as one of the best aquariums in the United States and the largest indoor aquarium in the world, this must-see attraction features more than 32,000 species of aquatic life worldwide.
From stingrays to sharks, giant Pacific octopuses, jellyfish, and sea turtles, the Shedd Aquarium offers something for everyone.
The aquarium also features several interactive exhibits, including a 4-D experience theater and “Stingray Touch,” – where guests can get up close and personal with various species of stingrays in an immersive environment.
With more than 70 exhibits, the Shedd Aquarium is an exciting adventure for the whole family. Guests can explore and learn more about sea life in various ways, including touch tanks, educational programs, and interactive exhibits.
Whether you’re interested in aquatic science or just looking to experience some amazing creatures up close, visit the Shedd Aquarium for a memorable marine experience. Bring the whole family and explore the wonders of aquatic life at this iconic aquarium!
The Georgia Aquarium, Georgia – See more than 100,000 sea creatures from around the world.
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the best in the United States and a must-see for all sea life lovers. The facility is gorgeous, and guests can observe over 100,000 animals from across the globe, including whales, sharks, manta rays, beluga whales, and more.
With various exhibits and interactive experiences, visitors can explore the creatures’ natural habitats while learning about conservation efforts.
The aquarium also features a 4D theater with 3D movies complete with motion seats, unique scents, and realistic environmental effects to give guests an immersive experience.
The facility's special events and programs also offer plenty of opportunities for family-friendly fun, such as sleepovers, dive shows, and even shark tooth dives.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, the Georgia Aquarium will surely be a memorable experience. From its incredible exhibits to its interactive experiences, it's no wonder why this aquarium consistently ranks so high among visitors.
Newport Aquarium, Kentucky – Get up close and personal with sharks and stingrays in the Dangerous Lagoon.
Newport Aquarium in Kentucky is among the best in the US, ranking high among sealife lovers. What makes it so great? For starters, it offers a unique and interactive experience that puts visitors up close and personal with some of the most amazing animals found in our oceans.
The Dangerous Lagoon is a celebrated part of the Newport Aquarium and one of the most sought-after attractions by visitors. It’s home to numerous large sharks and other predators like stingrays.
Guests can even touch some of these creatures in carefully constructed pools, giving them an almost real-life experience.
In addition to the Dangerous Lagoon, various other exhibits provide even more up-close marine encounters. For example, you can witness sea turtles in action as they swim through their habitats or observe graceful jellyfish drifting through a mesmerizing underwater world.
No matter what kind of aquatic experiences you're looking for - from first-time visitors to longtime fans - Newport Aquarium has something for everyone. It’s an essential visit to discover the wonders of the sea and is consistently ranked as one of the best aquariums in the US.
National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland – Visit this historic aquarium featuring 20 unique habitats and 700 species of animals.
The National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland, is one of the top-notch aquariums in the United States. It houses 20 unique habitats and over 700 species of animals, making it a truly unforgettable experience for any marine life lover.
The aquarium has been around since 1981, and its collections span different aquatic ecosystems worldwide.Its famous exhibits include the Blacktip Reef, an interactive dive experience with sharks and rays, and a jellyfish exhibit.
Visitors can also participate in educational programs such as the 'Wildlife Encounters,' where they can learn first-hand about sea life from experienced aquarium staff.
There's also a 4D Immersion Theater, where visitors can get an up-close experience of life under the sea. The National Aquarium in Baltimore is a must-see destination for anyone exploring amazing marine life. Whether you're near or far, it's sure to provide an unforgettable experience!
FAQs
How much does it cost to visit an aquarium?
The cost of admission to an aquarium varies by location but generally ranges from $15-50 per person. Group discounts may be available, and some locations offer discount passes for multiple visits.
What types of animals will I find at an aquarium?
From otters and octopuses to seahorses and stingrays, aquariums are home to various marine animals and fish. Sharks, eels, jellyfish, and sea turtles are also commonly found at aquariums throughout the US.
Which aquarium has the biggest tank?
The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is home to the largest single aquarium tank in the world – transparent walls stretch across 6.3 million gallons of water, holding thousands of sea creatures from around the world.
Conclusion
When planning your next big adventure, why not consider visiting one of the best aquariums in the US? Monterey Bay Aquarium, Shedd Aquarium, The Georgia Aquarium, Newport Aquarium, and National Aquarium in Baltimore are all fun and interactive places to explore the wondrous world of marine life. From sharks, whales, and stingrays to colorful coral and exotic creatures from around the globe, these aquariums will not disappoint.
