Scenic Overlook Closed for Renovations

The Scenic Overlook is closed for construction, with a new deck expected to reopen this fall. The Nature Trail between the buildings remains open.

Visitors Grabbing Food at the Cafe

Our Cafés

Brought to you by Gourmet Gang! Enjoy fresh menu items from pizza, pretzels, and rotating specials to salads, sandwiches, and sweets. Guests can enjoy both quick-service and grab-and-go options before or after their visit through our exhibits! 

We accept credit and debit cards only. No outside food is permitted in the exhibits. Thank you for your understanding.


Patrons seated in Mermaid Bay Cafe

Mermaid Bay Café

Open daily 10:00am-4:00pm. Located in the North Building to the left of the entrance to the Nature Trail, at the back of the large lobby foyer.

The Otter Bay Cafe.

Otter Bay Café

Open daily 10:00am-3:00pm. Located in the South Building in front of the Otter Habitat and the Gift Store.

Our Stores

Our stores are open daily from 9:00am until 5:00pm daily. From science-themed toys to beautiful handmade gifts, we have the perfect souvenir for guests of any age. If you need to reach someone in the store, please call (757) 385-0321.


Parent and child guests in North Building Store

North Building Store

Located at the end of the exhibit galleries, near the lobby and main entrance.

The South Building Gift Store.

South Building Store

Located across from the Otter Bay Café and Otter Exhibit, near the main entrance.

A guest poses with a bag made of a recycled banner in front of other recycled merchandise made of banners and wetsuits.

Featured Item - Recycled Material Merchandise

Help give a second life to upcycled materials with one of our new recycled items in the North Building gift store. We have drink koozies made of retired wetsuits used by our dive team, and bags, pouches, and notepad covers made from recycled Aquarium billboards!

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