From sea lions to sharks, this modern aquarium on Boston’s waterfront brings the ocean world to your fingertips.
The jutting angles and glittering glass panels of the New England Aquarium exterior look almost like shards of ice cracking in Boston Harbor. Within its modern walls, get acquainted with the thousands of marine animals that call this aquarium home.
As you approach the entrance, you are greeted by harbor seals. Stand nearby to watch a training session and witness the extraordinary intelligence of these creatures.
The Giant Ocean Tank is the centerpiece of the aquarium. Sharks, turtles, stingrays and countless other creatures swim in this massive three-story fishbowl. As you walk around, inspect the side exhibits where you can get a closer look at specific species. Learn all about penguins on the first floor exhibit or head upstairs to discover the plants and animals of the Amazon rainforest.
Get even closer to the wildlife at the Shark and Ray Touch Tank. This crowd favorite allows you to touch epaulette sharks, Atlantic rays and other creatures in a simulated mangrove swamp.
Sit back and enjoy the show in the Simons IMAX Theatre. The theater screens 3-D films featuring animals that are either too rare or too dangerous to live in the New England Aquarium.
If you visit between April and October, take advantage of the Whale Watch. Go on the aquarium’s high-speed catamaran to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, where you are guaranteed to see whales and dolphins.
Vsit the aquarium any day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Entry to the aquarium, IMAX Theatre and Whale Watch all require their own tickets, but combination tickets are available.
The aquarium is centrally located in the heart of Boston’s historic downtown waterfront. You can easily get here by foot, subway or car. If you’re driving, note that finding parking downtown can be difficult.