Renovation Updates
Please note some exhibit spaces in the Aquarium are temporarily closed while we conduct maintenance and renovation work. Learn more on our Renovation Progress page .
What to Expect
Before You Visit
Buy or Reserve Tickets In Advance
To ensure entry at the time you want to visit, purchase your tickets online in advance. We offer a predetermined number of tickets for sale per entry time slot. Members are also encouraged to reserve visits online beforehand!
About AdmissionsMake Plans for Parking
From April 1 through October 31, there is a $5 parking fee in our parking lots, which can be paid only by credit card. Be sure to purchase your admission tickets in advance. Members can enjoy FREE parking year-round when you register your license plate with us!
About ParkingWe're a Fully Accessible Facility!
The Aquarium is wheelchair-accessible. Need a wheelchair for your visit? Stop by Guest Services to inquire - we loan them out on a first-come, first-serve basis!
Included with Admission
Visit our Aquarium Experiences page to see what kind of activities we're hosting each day!
Aquarium ExperiencesTake Your Time
Plan to spend about an hour and a half exploring the North Building, another 45 minutes in the South Building, and as much time as you please on the Nature Trail. However, guests are not time-limited and you may enjoy your visit at your own pace.
One-Way Paths
One-way paths are designated throughout the Aquarium to help our guests better navigate the facilities and enjoy our exhibits.
Want to Avoid Larger Crowds?
The Aquarium sees higher numbers of guests on weekends and rainy days.
Thinking of Spring?
April and May are popular months for field trips! Large school groups generally visit us between 9:00am and 2:00pm on weekdays, in case you'd like to bypass the added excitement.
Know What's Open
To provide exceptional care for our animals, occasionally an exhibit may close temporarily. Refunds are not available for closed exhibits or unavailable animals, so please contact us prior to buying your tickets to ensure the availability of certain animals or exhibits.
What's Under RenovationWatch For Magnets!
Please be aware that some interactive exhibits may contain magnets that interfere with pacemakers, ICDs, and other implanted devices.
Add-On Experiences
Consider adding a Boat Tour to your experience! Also be sure to watch for featured events, special openings, and behind-the-scenes tours when planning for when you visit.
Aquarium ExperiencesWhat to Bring (And Not to Bring)
Make Sure Your Stroller Fits
We know that parents with little ones come with strollers in tow! Please note that strollers wider than 36 inches may not fit through some doorways. We do not loan or offer strollers, nor do we offer stroller checking.
Leave Pets at Home
For the health and safety of all our animals, personal pets are not permitted in the Aquarium. Only service dogs, as defined by Titles II and III of the ADA, may accompany the guest for whom they are trained to assist.
Our Service Animal PolicyNo Food or Drinks
For the health and safety of our animals, outside food and drink are NOT permitted in the exhibit areas. We invite you to enjoy lunch or coffee service in one of our cafes.
Our Dining OptionsThank You for Not Smoking
All of our buildings are smoke-free (including electronic/vapor cigarettes). Smoking is permitted outside of the Aquarium only.
Lights Off!
You are welcome to take photos to record your amazing experience, and to use the flash on your camera or phone. However, for the safety of our animals, we do not permit the use of flashlights, laser pointers, or video lights.
Members, Have Photo ID Ready!
Members should arrive with their photo ID ready whether they are checking in for an existing reservation or looking to reserve walk-in tickets.
