The United States is a treasure trove of world-class aquariums that showcase the diversity and beauty of marine life. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a solo adventure, or a romantic date, these destinations promise to educate and entertain. Below, we provide more in-depth details about why these are considered the best aquariums in the US, including what makes each a standout choice and their general admission prices.

Top 10 Best Aquariums in the US

1. Georgia Aquarium – Atlanta, Georgia

• Why It’s the Best Choice:
  The Georgia Aquarium boasts the largest indoor aquatic habitat in the Western Hemisphere, home to over 100,000 marine animals. It is one of the few places in the world where you can see whale sharks, the gentle giants of the ocean, up close. The aquarium also features an awe-inspiring dolphin show and a unique “Behind the Seas” tour.
• Top Highlights:
  • Ocean Voyager exhibit (with a walk-through tunnel).
  • Cold Water Quest (featuring beluga whales and penguins).
  • 4D Theater for an immersive experience.
• Admission Prices:
  • General admission: $42.99 for adults, $36.95 for children (ages 3–12).

2. Monterey Bay Aquarium – Monterey, California

• Why It’s the Best Choice:
  This iconic aquarium sits right on the California coast and is dedicated to preserving the Pacific Ocean ecosystem. It’s famous for its massive kelp forest exhibit and Open Sea galleries, which allow you to see tuna, sharks, and jellyfish in stunning detail. Their conservation initiatives also make it a top choice for environmentally conscious visitors.
• Top Highlights:
  • Sea otter feedings and enrichment programs.
  • Spectacular ocean views from the deck.
  • Interactive children’s exhibits like Splash Zone.
• Admission Prices:
  • General admission: $59.95 for adults, $44.95 for children (ages 5–17).

3. Shedd Aquarium – Chicago, Illinois

• Why It’s the Best Choice:
  Situated along Lake Michigan, the Shedd Aquarium is renowned for its extensive global collections, including species from the Arctic, the Amazon, and coral reefs. The immersive aquatic shows and the chance to pet stingrays make it a hit for families.
• Top Highlights:
  • The Caribbean Reef, a 360-degree tank.
  • Polar Play Zone, ideal for children.
  • Stingray Touch experience (seasonal).
• Admission Prices:
  • General admission: $39.95 for adults, $29.95 for children (ages 3–11).

4. Newport Aquarium – Newport, Kentucky

• Why It’s the Best Choice:
  This aquarium is known for its thrilling Shark Bridge, a rope bridge suspended above a shark-filled tank. It’s also one of the few aquariums with a specialized frog exhibit and rare shark rays.
• Top Highlights:
  • Surrounded by Sharks exhibit.
  • Gator Alley, featuring rare white alligators.
  • Walk-through tunnels and touch tanks.
• Admission Prices:
  • General admission: $25.99 for adults, $17.99 for children (ages 2–12).

5. National Aquarium – Baltimore, Maryland

• Why It’s the Best Choice:
  Housed in a stunning waterfront building, the National Aquarium is a must-visit for its impressive variety of marine life and emphasis on education. The Living Seashore exhibit lets visitors touch sea creatures like horseshoe crabs and jellyfish, while the Blacktip Reef provides a spectacular underwater experience.
• Top Highlights:
  • 4D Immersion Theater.
  • Shark Alley and Amazon River Forest exhibits.
  • Gorgeous harbor views.
• Admission Prices:
  • General admission: $39.95 for adults, $29.95 for children (ages 3–11).

6. Tennessee Aquarium – Chattanooga, Tennessee

• Why It’s the Best Choice:
  Split into two buildings—River Journey and Ocean Journey—this aquarium offers a comprehensive look at both freshwater and saltwater ecosystems. It’s particularly famous for its massive freshwater exhibits, which are unparalleled in the country.
• Top Highlights:
  • Butterfly Garden.
  • Alligator Bayou and river otter exhibits.
  • Penguins’ Rock, a playful penguin habitat.
• Admission Prices:
  • General admission: $39.95 for adults, $29.95 for children (ages 3–12).

7. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas – New Orleans, Louisiana

• Why It’s the Best Choice:
  Located in the heart of New Orleans, this aquarium specializes in showcasing the aquatic life of the Gulf of Mexico and the Mississippi River. Interactive exhibits and touch tanks make it especially engaging for kids.
• Top Highlights:
  • Sea turtle rescue center.
  • Stingray touch pool.
  • Rare white alligators.
• Admission Prices:
  • General admission: $29.95 for adults, $24.95 for children (ages 2–12).

8. Seattle Aquarium – Seattle, Washington

• Why It’s the Best Choice:
  With a focus on marine life native to the Pacific Northwest, this aquarium provides unique exhibits like the Underwater Dome, where visitors are surrounded by 360 degrees of ocean life. Their conservation and rehabilitation efforts also stand out.
• Top Highlights:
  • Daily diver shows.
  • Marine mammal habitats featuring seals and otters.
  • Hands-on tide pool exhibits.
• Admission Prices:
  • General admission: $35 for adults, $25 for children (ages 4–12).

9. Adventure Aquarium – Camden, New Jersey

• Why It’s the Best Choice:
  Adventure Aquarium is home to the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast and the only aquarium with a great hammerhead shark. Kid-friendly zones like KidZone make it ideal for families.
• Top Highlights:
  • Shark Tunnel and Shark Bridge.
  • Little Blue Penguins exhibit.
  • Daily animal feedings and encounters.
• Admission Prices:
  • General admission: $35 for adults, $25 for children (ages 2–12).

10. Texas State Aquarium – Corpus Christi, Texas

• Why It’s the Best Choice:
  Dedicated to Gulf of Mexico marine life, the Texas State Aquarium blends entertainment with education. Its Dolphin Bay exhibit offers an up-close look at bottlenose dolphins, while the Caribbean Journey provides a taste of tropical life.
• Top Highlights:
  • Jungle and Aviary exhibits.
  • H-E-B Caribbean Sea shark display.
  • Dolphin shows and stingray encounters.
• Admission Prices:
  • General admission: $39.95 for adults, $29.95 for children (ages 3–12).

Why Visit the Best Aquariums in the US?

Exploring the best aquariums in the US is not only an exciting adventure but also an educational experience. These aquariums play a vital role in marine conservation, offering insights into the underwater world while providing memorable moments for visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re a marine enthusiast, a family looking for an interactive outing, or someone curious about aquatic ecosystems, these destinations offer something special. Add these best aquariums in the US to your travel bucket list and dive into a world of wonder.

FAQs About the Best Aquariums in the US

1. What are the best aquariums in the US to visit with kids?

The best aquariums in the US for families with kids include the Georgia Aquarium, Shedd Aquarium, and Adventure Aquarium. These aquariums offer interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and exciting animal shows that keep children engaged while teaching them about marine life.

2. Which aquarium is considered the largest among the best aquariums in the US?

The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia, is the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, making it one of the best aquariums in the US. It houses over 100,000 marine animals, including whale sharks, and features enormous tanks that are a marvel to explore.

3. Are the best aquariums in the US wheelchair accessible?

Yes, most of the best aquariums in the US are wheelchair accessible and designed to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. For example, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Shedd Aquarium, and National Aquarium offer ramps, elevators, and wheelchair rentals to ensure a comfortable visit.

4. How much does it cost to visit the best aquariums in the US?

Admission prices vary depending on the aquarium. For instance:

• Georgia Aquarium: $42.99 for adults.
• Monterey Bay Aquarium: $59.95 for adults.
• National Aquarium: $39.95 for adults.
  While these prices may seem high, the experience and the variety of exhibits make them worth visiting the best aquariums in the US.

5. Can I find conservation programs at the best aquariums in the US?

Absolutely! Many of the best aquariums in the US, such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Seattle Aquarium, are deeply involved in marine conservation efforts. They offer educational programs, sustainable seafood initiatives, and research projects aimed at protecting marine life.

6. Which are the best aquariums in the US for seeing sharks?

For shark enthusiasts, the best aquariums in the US include:

• Adventure Aquarium (Camden, New Jersey): Home to the Shark Tunnel and Shark Bridge.
• Newport Aquarium (Newport, Kentucky): Known for its Surrounded by Sharks exhibit.
• Georgia Aquarium (Atlanta, Georgia): Features massive shark tanks, including whale sharks.

7. Are the best aquariums in the US suitable for a rainy day activity?

Yes, aquariums are perfect for rainy day activities! The indoor nature of the best aquariums in the US ensures that you can enjoy marine life exhibits regardless of the weather.

8. Do the best aquariums in the US offer annual memberships?

Most of the best aquariums in the US offer annual memberships that provide unlimited visits, discounts on dining and gift shops, and exclusive access to events. For example, the Georgia Aquarium and Monterey Bay Aquarium have popular membership programs that are great for frequent visitors.

9. What is the best time of year to visit the best aquariums in the US?

The best aquariums in the US are open year-round, but weekdays and non-holiday seasons are ideal for smaller crowds. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can also enhance your experience with fewer people.

10. Can I host private events or parties at the best aquariums in the US?

Yes, many of the best aquariums in the US offer spaces for private events, weddings, and corporate gatherings. Aquariums like the Shedd Aquarium and National Aquarium provide unique backdrops with stunning marine displays that make events unforgettable.

Explore these best aquariums in the US to experience marine life like never before and create lasting memories!

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