Explore The Best Of US Aquariums 15 Unmissable Marine Attractions
Ready to dive into the most awe-inspiring aquatic experiences in the U.S.? From coast to coast, I’ve explored aquariums that do more than display sea life they immerse you in it.
Picture walking beneath gliding sharks, locking eyes with curious octopuses, and watching jellyfish pulse like living art.
These standout spots blend education, wonder, and wild beauty to create memories that linger long after you leave. Let’s explore America’s most unforgettable aquariums you won’t believe what’s waiting beneath the surface.
1. Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta, GA
If I could pick just one aquarium for astonishing scale, Georgia Aquarium instantly comes to mind. There’s a moment when you stand before the Ocean Voyager’s immense window, dwarfed by the graceful sweep of whale sharks and manta rays.
Families gather here, captivated by toothy smiles and gentle giants gliding above. This is also the only place in the U.S. where you’ll spot whale sharks, and their sheer size is humbling.
Did you know? The exhibit holds over 6 million gallons of water—enough to fill nine Olympic pools. No wonder every visit feels like entering another world.
2. Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey, CA
How could anyone forget the living kelp forest at Monterey Bay Aquarium? For me, this soaring, sun-dappled tank feels like strolling through an enchanted redwood grove, except underwater.
Where else can you watch sardines swirl around towering fronds, or spot a leopard shark weaving through golden ribbons? Monterey’s open-ocean display surprises visitors with its changing cast of creatures.
Fun fact: This aquarium was the first to successfully grow a living kelp forest on public display. Every window offers a new story from the Pacific’s wild coast.
3. Shedd Aquarium, Chicago, IL
Are you searching for a dash of Chicago flair in your aquatic adventure? Shedd Aquarium sets the stage with its pristine Caribbean Reef, where a sea turtle coasts effortlessly past technicolor corals.
It’s hard not to smile at the playful antics of beluga whales in the Abbott Oceanarium. Kids press faces to glass, hoping to catch a wink or a whistle.
Shedd opened in 1930 and remains one of the world’s largest indoor aquariums. History meets heart here, in every tank and exhibit.
4. National Aquarium, Baltimore, MD
When Baltimore’s Inner Harbor catches the light, the National Aquarium stands like a glassy beacon of discovery. Its multi-level Rain Forest soars overhead, alive with birdsong and mist.
I’m always drawn to the mesmerizing jellies drifting through their circular tanks, illuminated like living art. Visitors can meander through a winding shark tunnel for a thrill.
Did you know? The National Aquarium houses over 20,000 aquatic animals. Every visit promises new faces and surprises, just steps from the city’s beating heart.
5. New England Aquarium, Boston, MA
It’s impossible not to be enchanted by the Giant Ocean Tank’s spiraling coral reef at Boston’s New England Aquarium. Myrtle, the beloved green sea turtle, glides regally as if she owns the city.
Curious eyes follow the daily feedings, where divers interact with hundreds of fish. Penguins waddle beside the bustling Atlantic harbor, lending a touch of whimsy.
Fun fact: The aquarium’s main tank stands four stories tall and has delighted locals and visitors since 1969. Every corner feels alive with Boston’s salty spirit.
6. Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga, TN
Where can you follow a raindrop’s journey from Appalachian streams to the Gulf of Mexico? At Tennessee Aquarium, I always feel swept along on this watery adventure.
Playful river otters steal the show with their acrobatics, while shimmering paddlefish glide in the freshwater tanks. The River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings double the fun.
This attraction opened in 1992 and transformed Chattanooga’s waterfront. It now houses over 12,000 animals; there’s always a new ripple to catch your eye.
7. Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach, CA
Did you ever imagine petting a shark? At Aquarium of the Pacific, I dipped my hand into Shark Lagoon and felt the rough skin of a ray.
Colorful sea dragons and jellyfish twirl through stunning exhibits, while kids gaze up at the Blue Cavern’s giant sea bass. Every corner celebrates Southern California’s unique marine life.
Since opening in 1998, this aquarium has become a West Coast staple, blending education with hands-on wonder. The open-air touch pools are a favorite for young explorers.
8. Oregon Coast Aquarium, Newport, OR
Where mist meets marine life, Oregon Coast Aquarium feels wild and windswept. I’m captivated by the playful sea otters tumbling in their pools, always in on a secret joke.
Walk through the Passages of the Deep: a glass tunnel where sharks glide overhead and ocean light dances. Outdoor habitats blend seamlessly with Oregon’s rugged coastline.
Opened in 1992, this aquarium champions local species and coastal conservation. Its naturalistic exhibits invite you to slow down and peer closer, rain or shine.
9. Florida Aquarium, Tampa, FL
Ever wondered what Florida’s coral reefs look like up close? At the Florida Aquarium, I wander among swirling angelfish, bright coral, and the occasional curious turtle.
The Wetlands Trail winds through mangrove forests, alive with birds and gators. For little ones, the outdoor splash pad is irresistible on a steamy Tampa day.
This aquarium opened in 1995 and leads in conservation projects for Florida’s aquatic habitats. There’s always something vibrant and surprising around every corner.
10. Dallas World Aquarium, Dallas, TX
How often do you see sloths hanging above a shark tank? Dallas World Aquarium blends rainforest and reef into one wild, urban adventure.
I’m always charmed by the manatees drifting amid mangrove roots, while birds flit overhead. The Orinoco exhibit bursts with color and sound.
Opened in 1992, this spot offers a globe-trotting taste of aquatic and terrestrial life. Every visit feels like a passport stamp to somewhere new and unexpected.
11. Seattle Aquarium, Seattle, WA
If you’ve ever dreamed of greeting a giant Pacific octopus, Seattle Aquarium has you covered. I press my hand to the glass as tentacles curl in greeting, mysterious and intelligent.
Sea otters tumble nearby, delighting crowds with their antics. The Window on Washington Waters exhibit celebrates the vibrant marine life unique to Puget Sound.
This aquarium sits right on the waterfront, blending city energy with tidal rhythms. There’s an unmistakable Pacific Northwest vibe in every ripple and wave.
12. Audubon Aquarium, New Orleans, LA
Are you drawn to the sound of jazz and the shimmer of tropical fish? At Audubon Aquarium, the spirit of New Orleans infuses every tank.
Stingrays glide through Caribbean reefs, while penguins huddle in cool comfort nearby. Kids can pet baby sharks and rays in touch pools bursting with local flair.
Located beside the Mississippi River, this aquarium blends music, culture, and aquatic wonder since 1990. It’s as lively as the city itself, with surprises in every corner.
13. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg, TN
How do sharks look from below? Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies lets you find out as you glide along its underwater tunnel, surrounded by swirling marine life.
Jellyfish glow like lanterns while rays flutter above. The Penguin Playhouse is a crowd favorite, with birds zooming and sliding in icy pools.
Opened in 2000, this Gatlinburg gem brings the sea to the mountains. The sense of wonder grows with every new exhibit you explore.
14. Mystic Aquarium, Mystic, CT
Did you know that Mystic Aquarium is famous for its charismatic beluga whales? The first time I saw one, its smile seemed to light up the entire pool.
You’ll also find playful seals and dramatic sea lion shows. Indoors, the Arctic Coast exhibit chills you with its icy beauty.
Mystic has supported marine mammal research and rescue since 1973. Every visit feels like a blend of science, play, and awe for the wild world.
15. California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, CA
When science meets spectacle, the California Academy of Sciences stands out. I’m always drawn to the Philippine Coral Reef tank, which teems with color and life.
The living roof above is a marvel, sprouting wildflowers and soaking up San Francisco fog. Penguins and alligators add to the academy’s quirky lineup.
This institution has roots dating back to 1853 and houses a planetarium, rainforest dome, and natural history museum. It’s one-stop exploring for curious minds of any age.