The 15 Best Aquariums In America, According To Reviews
Ever wondered where to find the most impressive aquariums in the U.S.? Some places go beyond just tanks and fish, creating unforgettable experiences that bring you face-to-face with marine life in ways you never expected.
From massive walk-through tunnels to hands-on encounters with sea creatures, these top-rated aquariums stand out for a reason.
Ready to discover where you can step into an underwater world without getting wet?
1. Georgia Aquarium
A great view if you ask me! Walking through its massive halls, I found myself drawn to the Ocean Voyager tank, where whale sharks glide through the water.
Watching these creatures up close was unforgettable. The calm water and steady movements made me pause and take it all in. Time seemed to slow as I watched fish move in every direction.
This place is more than an aquarium. It’s a chance to see the ocean’s beauty up close. If you ask me, this is a place you shouldn’t miss!
2. Monterey Bay Aquarium
I dare you to look at this and not instantly add it to your bucket list! The Monterey Bay Aquarium sits on the Pacific coast, offering a close look at marine life and ocean conservation.
The towering Kelp Forest exhibit moves with the water, creating a peaceful scene. Sea otters dive and glide through the water with boundless energy and their playful antics draw you in.
The crash of waves and the salty air surround you, making the moment feel alive and full of adventure.
This place isn’t just about watching sea life. It sparks curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the ocean. Would you explore its wonders?
3. Shedd Aquarium
Be honest, how fast would you say yes to visiting this place?
The Caribbean Reef exhibit is filled with colorful corals and fish, while rays glide peacefully through the water. The city skyline adds an urban touch to the experience.
Inside, visitors can explore different marine ecosystems, making it both fun and educational.
Trust me, this is one experience you’ll never forget!
4. National Aquarium
I have a feeling you’re going to love this spot. Baltimore’s National Aquarium offers a unique look into ocean life.
The exhibit features sharks and fish weaving through coral. Sunlight from above adds to the spectacle.
The space is lively, but there’s a peaceful atmosphere as you explore each exhibit.
This aquarium focuses on conservation and invites you to learn and appreciate the ocean. I highly recommend adding this to your itinerary!
5. Tennessee Aquarium
Imagine yourself here, feels amazing, right?
The River Journey exhibit highlights freshwater habitats with playful otters and vegetation. The gentle flow of water enhances the atmosphere, creating a peaceful soundtrack to the moment.
Exploring its exhibits reveals the biodiversity of rivers worldwide. This aquarium blends education with exploration, deepening appreciation for aquatic ecosystems. Ready to dive into a world of discovery?
You won’t regret spending extra time exploring this place!
6. Seattle Aquarium
You deserve to experience a place like this at least once. The Seattle Aquarium sits along the waterfront, bringing the marine world to life in the heart of the city.
Watching divers interact with fish and sea anemones made me appreciate how connected we are to the ocean. The salty breeze from the waterfront whisked me away, blurring the line between city life and the calm, natural world around me.
It left me wanting to learn more, to return and see how the ocean’s story continues. My advice? Slow down, look around, and enjoy every detail!
7. New England Aquarium
I’m warning you, once you see this, you’ll want to book a trip immediately!
The Giant Ocean Tank rises through the center, a swirling world of sea turtles, sharks, and tropical fish. Watching the creatures move through the water, I felt drawn into their world.
This aquarium isn’t just a place to see marine life, it’s a space for learning and conservation. If you’re anything like me, you’ll fall in love with this spot instantly!
8. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
You might want to sit down for this one, it’s unbelievable! New Orleans’ Audubon Aquarium of the Americas brings the Gulf of Mexico to life in the heart of the city.
The massive Gulf of Mexico exhibit draws you in, filled with sharks, rays, and schools of fish gliding through the water. The buzz of visitors and the gentle hum of flowing water added to the experience.
It’s more than just an attraction, it’s a place that deepens appreciation for the sea. Would you explore its depths?
9. Dallas World Aquarium
Imagine walking through a tunnel where sharks glide overhead and colorful fish dart past. The Dallas World Aquarium offers just that!
Stepping into the rainforest exhibit feels like entering another world, where towering trees, tiny birds, and cascading waterfalls surround you. What struck me most was how the aquarium connects ocean life with terrestrial ecosystems.
There’s no better way to get up close with marine life, are you in?
10. Oregon Coast Aquarium
How does it feel to stand inches away from creatures you’ve only seen in books or on screens?
Walking through the Passages of the Deep tunnel, you get surrounded by sharks and rays. The quiet hum of the ocean fills the space, and makes the experience both thrilling and peaceful.
What stood out most was how the aquarium captures the raw beauty of the Pacific and offers a deeper understanding of its diverse marine life. If you’re looking for an unforgettable encounter with the ocean, this is the place to be!
11. Texas State Aquarium
What if you could explore the ocean without getting wet? The Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi invites visitors to explore the unbelievable world of the Gulf of Mexico.
One of the highlights is Dolphin Bay, where playful dolphins leap through the air, delighting guests with their acrobatics.
The aquarium highlights the Gulf’s ecosystems. It offers hands-on experience that educates on marine life and conservation. Every visit leaves you with something new to discover, what will you find?
12. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to step into a world where marine life surrounds you from every angle? Located in the heart of Virginia Beach, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center offers a rich experience into marine ecosystems.
The Red Sea Tunnel stands out, showcasing an underwater world where fish dart through a landscape of vivid corals. As you walk through, the calm hum of water creates a peaceful atmosphere.
This aquarium focuses on conservation, mixing learning with the excitement of marine life.
The ocean is full of surprises, and here, you’re just a step away from them!
13. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Every tank here tells a different story of the underwater world!
The Shark Lagoon is an unforgettable experience, where you walk through a tunnel surrounded by awe-inspiring sharks and marine creatures. The atmosphere is filled with wonder, and a bit of thrill as these magnificent creatures glide just overhead.
Beyond the excitement, this aquarium takes you on an educational journey through different aquatic worlds. So, are you ready to dive into the depths and experience it for yourself?
14. Florida Aquarium
Ever thought about visiting an aquarium that takes you closer to marine life than you ever imagined?
Located in Tampa, the Florida Aquarium is a lively showcase of marine life. The Coral Reef exhibit is a burst of color, where tropical fish and corals come together in a stunning display.
This aquarium is more than just a visual feast. It’s an engaging, educational experience, deeply rooted in conservation efforts. Every corner invites you to explore the ocean’s beauty and its importance in the world.
What are you waiting for—an aquarium adventure awaits you!
15. Aquarium of the Pacific
Imagine stepping into a world alive with color, where every tank unfolds a new underwater adventure. That’s what you’ll find at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach.
The Tropical Pacific Gallery captures your attention with its corals and exotic fish swimming under a clear artificial sky. This aquarium is a hub for learning, showcasing the Pacific Ocean’s diverse ecosystems.
It’s an educational experience wrapped in beauty if you ask me. If you’re craving an unforgettable adventure, an aquarium might just be your next stop!