New England Aquarium in Boston

Highlights / General details

Science of Sharks—NEW!

Discover the Science of Sharks! Dive deep into the Science of Sharks with this new exhibit. Get up close to some small but mighty shark species from around the world. Shark science comes alive with inspiring videos featuring researchers and their efforts to help sharks, while dazzling underwater footage features the National Geographic photographer Brian Skerry transport you to amazing shark habitats. Learn some surprising facts about shark anatomy!

GIANT OCEAN TANK

Enjoy 360 degree views of a spectacular, four story Caribbean coral reef teeming with more animals than ever before. In 2013, the iconic Giant Ocean Tank underwent a top-to-bottom, 21stcentury transformation, including windows that provide crystal-clear viewing opportunities; a vibrant, revitalized coral reef with more than 1,000 fishes; and the Yawkey Coral Reef Center at the top of the exhibit. The colorful Caribbean coral reef is home to sea turtles, eels and hundreds of tropical fishes of all sizes.

SEALS AND SEA LIONS AT PLAY AT THE NEW BALANCE FOUNDATION MARINE MAMMAL CENTER

The seals and sea lions are always at play. Watch California sea lions dart through the water and limber Northern fur seals frolic in this beautiful open air exhibit space, and find out about the challenges marine mammals face in the wild!

THE LARGEST SHARK AND RAY TOUCH TANK ON THE EAST COAST

The Trust Family Foundation Shark and Ray Touch Tank features sharks and rays in a mangrove-themed tank surrounded by shallow edges and viewing windows, allowing visitors to experience a close encounter with these animals. Visitors to this exhibit can reach out and gently touch the backs of cow nose rays, Atlantic rays and sharks as they swim gracefully through the crystal-clear water. The exhibit presents these incredible species in a way that highlights their importance in a healthy ocean ecosystem. It also emphasizes the value of conserving essential coastal habitats, such as mangroves and lagoons. Open daily at 9:30am.

ATLANTIC HARBOR SEALS

Visitors can enjoy the Atlantic harbor seals in their exhibit on the Aquarium plaza before buying admission tickets. Watch the seals swim, play and rest. Learn more about them and see some expert behaviors as they work with trainers during free training sessions throughout the day.

BLUE PLANET ACTION CENTER

This exhibit is part of the Aquarium’s recent top to bottom, 21st century transformation. The exhibit area presents the serious challenges facing the oceans and showcases the Aquarium’s global leadership in searching for solutions with a combination of interactive displays, interpretive presentations and small live animal exhibits.

The New England Aquarium in Boston offers:

THE LARGEST SHARK AND RAY TOUCH TANK ON THE EAST COAST.

A hands-on tidepool for touching and handling various sea creatures.

Curious George Discovery Corner - a place designed for young visitors.

An outdoor seal exhibit located on the Aquarium Plaza, that's a favorite of both tourists and local residents.

Thousands of sea creatures from hundreds of different species.

Special events and presentations throughout the year.

The new Penguin Power Exhibit.

Inclusion

Admission into the Aquarium and general exhibits.

Exclusion

Transportation to and from departure location.

Hours of operation

Monday-Friday: 9:00am-5:00pm; Saturday, Sunday and most holidays: 9:00am-6:00pm.

Summer Hours:

July 1 - Labor Day, Sunday-Thursday and Holidays: 9:00am-6:00pm, Friday and Saturday: 9:00am-7:00pm.

Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Closes at 3:00pm on Christmas Eve. Open at noon on New Year's Day.

Location

Booth

Hours of operation

Monday-Friday: 9:00am-5:00pm; Saturday, Sunday and most holidays: 9:00am-6:00pm.

Summer Hours:

July 1 - Labor Day, Sunday-Thursday and Holidays: 9:00am-6:00pm, Friday and Saturday: 9:00am-7:00pm.

Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Closes at 3:00pm on Christmas Eve. Open at noon on New Year's Day.

Location

Booth Location: New England Aquarium, Central Wharf (adjacent to the Marriott Hotel and close to Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market), Boston, MA 02110. Nearest intersection: Central Wharf and Old Atlantic Avenue.

Additional Information

Validated parking available at the following:

International Place: Weekdays after 5:00pm - $7.00, Saturday-Sunday all day - $10.00.

Rowes Wharf: Weekdays - $28.00, after 5:00pm $15.00; Saturday-Sunday all day - $15.00.

75 State Street Garage: Monday-Friday after 5:00pm - $15.00, Saturday-Sunday all day - $18.00.

*Validation at main Aquarium's main information desk.

Redemption instructions

A separate E-Ticket will be emailed to the guest. This ticket is required for entry into the attraction.

Policies

Reservation are not required.

Ticket price only includes admission into the Aquarium and general exhibits.

Validated parking is available.

Cancellation: Unredeemed vouchers are fully refundable.

Complete information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, will be included on your Confirmation Voucher.

**All information requested must be supplied or booking is subject to automatic cancellation**