National Aquarium

1. National Aquarium Exhibits

• What kind of animal life is featured at the National Aquarium?
  • The exhibits at the National Aquarium showcase a vast array of animal life, including vertebrates, invertebrates, mammals, fish, and amphibians.
  • The exhibits are award-winning and take visitors on an underwater adventure around the world, from Australia to the Atlantic and the Amazon.
• What can visitors see at the Amazon River Forest exhibit?
  • This exhibit transports visitors to the wilds of South America to explore the Amazon River habitat.
  • The Amazon is home to a third of the world’s animal species, making it a key ecological environment.
  • Animals featured include emerald tree boas, giant waxy tree frogs, white-blotched river stingrays, and many more.
• What makes the Atlantic Coral Reef exhibit special?
  • This exhibit features an enormous 335,000-gallon enclosure filled with aquatic life.
  • More than 500 species of fish can be seen darting through the fabricated reef.
  • Visitors can watch divers feeding creatures such as the green moray eel and bonnethead shark, making for an interactive experience.
• What does the Atlantic to Pacific exhibit offer?
  • Visitors can embark on a journey from the Atlantic coast to the Pacific coast.
  • Animals range from Atlantic sea-cliff dwelling puffins to a Pacific coral reef.
  • Guests can preview this vibrant underwater world through a live aquarium webcam on the Aquarium’s website.
• What can visitors see at the Australia: Wild Extremes exhibit?
  • This award-winning exhibit immerses visitors in a northern Australian river gorge.
  • The enclosure is home to 1,800 animals representing 120 species, including snakes, turtles, and flying foxes.
  • Guests can see Australia’s national symbol, the Laughing Kookaburra, and the Grey-headed flying fox, among other fascinating creatures.

2. Dolphins, Jellies and More

• What is the Blacktip Reef exhibit?
  • Blacktip Reef is an award-winning exhibit at the National Aquarium that recreates an Indo-Pacific reef.
  • The exhibit features a live web cam, allowing aquarium enthusiasts to watch the lively marine environment at any time.
  • Animals in the exhibit include clown triggerfish, emperor angelfish, harlequin tuskfish, and many more.
• What can visitors see at the Dolphin Discovery exhibit?
  • The largest enclosure at the National Aquarium is home to a colony of eight bottlenose dolphins.
  • The social group consists of six female and two male dolphins, forming complex social relationships.
  • Visitors can often see staff interacting with the dolphins, caring for them, cleaning the area, or engaging them in play.
• What is the Jellies Invasion exhibit?
  • This exhibit is dedicated to jellyfish, one of the ocean’s most often-overlooked creatures.
  • Jellyfish are found in every ocean and some freshwater environments, making them an important indicator of changing aquatic ecosystems.
  • Visitors can observe many jellyfish species and gain a deeper appreciation for these gelatinous creatures.
• What makes the Living Seashore exhibit unique?
  • This is an interactive exhibit, perfect for guests who want to engage directly with marine life.
  • Two touch pools allow visitors to reach out and touch various sea creatures.
  • The exhibit features around 150 animals, offering ample opportunities for hands-on experiences.
  • Beyond live animals, guests can explore videos, games, and tactile learning activities.
  • The Conservation Station allows visitors to pledge their commitment to protecting coastal habitats and marine life.

3. Sharks

• What is the Maryland Experience exhibit?
  • The Maryland Experience exhibit highlights the habitats and aquatic life found throughout the state.
  • Visitors can see animals such as the American bullfrog, striped burrfish, and diamondback terrapin turtle.
  • This exhibit showcases Maryland’s biodiversity, taking visitors from mountain streams to the continental shelf of the Atlantic Ocean.
• What makes Shark Alley a unique exhibit?
  • Sharks are a favorite among visitors, and this exhibit features a 225,000-gallon ring-shaped enclosure housing several shark species.
  • The unique circular design allows sharks to circle visitors, creating an immersive and thrilling experience.
• What is the Surviving Adaptation exhibit?
  • This exhibit focuses on how marine life adapts to the sometimes harsh and inhospitable ocean environment.
  • It showcases fascinating creatures such as the electric eel, giant Pacific octopus, longsnout seahorse, and peacock mantis shrimp.
• What animals can visitors see in the Upland Tropical Rain Forest exhibit?
  • This exhibit showcases animals from an endangered and disappearing habitat.
  • It features both aquatic and land animals, providing a diverse look at tropical wildlife.
  • Some of the fascinating creatures include the Line’s two-toed sloth, golden lion tamarin monkey, and blue poison-dart frog.

4. The Waterfront Park

• What is the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Waterfront Park?
  • The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Waterfront Park is a 90,000-square-foot green space located near the National Aquarium.
  • Unlike a traditional park with shrubs, swings, and picnic tables, this park is a Certified Wildlife Habitat.
  • It is an educational and conservation-focused area situated along the Chesapeake Bay estuary to promote the protection of this critical natural habitat.
• How does the National Aquarium contribute to conservation efforts?
  • Conservation is a key component of the National Aquarium’s mission.
  • Efforts include animal rescue operations, which have successfully returned more than 100 animals to the wild.
  • The Aquarium provides educational resources and opportunities to protect animals and their habitats.
• What conservation programs does the Aquarium offer?
  • Lecture series to educate the public on marine conservation topics.
  • Habitat restoration days to actively improve and protect natural environments.
  • Consumer education initiatives, such as guidance on making smart seafood choices to support sustainable fishing practices.
• What is the goal of the National Aquarium’s conservation work?
  • All conservation efforts aim to preserve the natural environment and protect marine life for future generations.

5. Plan Your Visit

• How does the National Aquarium support conservation education?
  • The National Aquarium is dedicated to educating future conservation leaders through programs for students, teachers, and volunteers.
  • Education efforts include field trips, student programs, volunteer opportunities, and the Youth Ocean Conservation Summit.
  • The Aquarium also provides teacher resources such as workshops, orientations, and outreach programs.
  • Traveling programs bring the Aquarium into classrooms for interactive learning activities.
• How can visitors enhance their experience at the National Aquarium?
  • Visitors can download the Aquarium App before arrival for maps, keeper times, and more.
  • For a less crowded experience, the Aquarium recommends visiting before 11 AM or after 3 PM.
  • The Aquarium is located in downtown Baltimore and is easily accessible via freeways and public transit.
  • Public parking is available nearby for a fee.
  • Checking the Aquarium’s calendar of events before visiting ensures guests can plan their visit around special activities.
• What special events and activities are offered at the National Aquarium?
  • Daily offerings include animal feedings and 4D Immersion films.
  • Seasonal events include festivals and gourmet gatherings for food enthusiasts.
  • Visitors can take advantage of deals, half-price nights, and special programming for guests with special needs.
• What are Immersion Tours at the National Aquarium?
  • Immersion Tours provide behind-the-scenes access and allow guests to see animal care up close.
  • Visitors can choose from three unique tours, available on specific days and times.
  • Advance booking is recommended to secure a spot on these exclusive, in-depth experiences.

501 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, Phone: 410-576-3800