Central Wharf
617-973-5200

www.neaq.org

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Enjoy the New England Aquarium. Remember those dinky aquariums that seemed to exist in every little coastal town, but were always a disappointment? The exhibits totaled a school of minnows, one shy clam, and an angry lobster. The New England Aquarium is not like that. The lobster may still be angry, but she’s joined by at least one hundred other exhibits: all of them thoughtfully constructed, and carefully documented.

This Aquarium is one of the best of its kind. It sits dockside on Boston Harbor, and along with a jam-packed main exhibit hall, there are outside exhibits, a sea lion show in a separate building, and an Activity Center located across the street.

The NEAq (as it’s known) carries on other important behind-the-scenes roles. An extensive medical center treats injured sea mammals and reptiles – some of the labs are visible behind glass so that equipment and staff are on display. The NEAq holds the federal mandate for rescue and rehabilitation of sea creatures (including whales and dolphins) stranded along the coasts of Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. It’s a big responsibility, and although you won’t see the injured animals, take the time to look at the labs that treat them.

What you will see here are penguins, tanks and tanks of fish, shellfish, crustaceans, and every water habitat imaginable. In the center of the main hall is the Giant Ocean Tank – a four story, round tank filled with saltwater fish, sharks, sea turtles, rays, a coral reef and its tiny inhabitants. Divers enter the tank five times daily. Thanks to the ramp that skirts it, the tank is easily accessible, even on crowded days. Once you’ve reached the top, go upstairs and look down inside it. The view is different and the turtles often surface for air.

Around the perimeter of the big tank are three levels of other exhibits. In addition, there is a new section on the lower lever just at the entrance. Don’t miss it – there are jellyfish, shore birds, and a quirky little display case with sand eels. Out the back door, see the California Sea otters frolic next to the Harbor Seals. Next door is the Discovery building where sea lion shows take place six times daily. On the top deck is the Discovery Immersive Theater, a virtual, interactive rendering of Stellwagen Bank called Storm over Stellwagen. Shows here start 12 times a day.

The New England Aquarium can get noisy – the main hall echoes. It’s a classy aquarium though, and well worth a visit. The layout helps keep people moving – try to choose a sunny day and avoid school days if you can. The Aquarium is an exciting place, and professionally handled. If you only have time to visit three places, make this one of them; it’s that wonderful.

Hours:

Monday – Friday: 9 – 5

Weekends, Holidays: 9 - 6

Mass. School Vacations: 9 – 6

Longer hours July and August

Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas

Admission:

Adults (12+): $12.00

Children 3 – 11: $6.00

Under 3: Free

Seniors: $10.00

Higher rates apply in July and August.