10 Largest Aquariums in the World – Touropia Travel Experts 10 Largest Aquariums in the World Last updated on November 10, 2016 in Leisure 39 Comments The most common size for a home aquarium tank is probably 29 or 30 gallon, though some aquarists have constructed aquariums of many thousands of gallons. Public aquariums can be dramatically larger than any home aquarium. But only a few are big enough to make it to our list of largest aquariums in the world. The kind of aquarium that can hold whale sharks and manta rays. It takes a very large tank to hold these kind of aquatic creatures. In order to compare these large aquariums we have looked at the size of their biggest tank (in gallons). Most aquariums have several tanks and the combined volume of water can be much larger but it is only the largest aquarium tank that is counted. So here’s a list of the largest aquariums in the world. 10Aquarium of Western Australia (0,8 million gallons) flickr/ rosswebsdale Located in a coastal suburb of Perth, the Aquarium of Western Australia, or AQWA in short, contains Australia ’s largest aquarium tank.

The aquarium’s main tank is 40 meters (130 ft) long and 20 meters (66 ft) wide and holds 3,000,000 liters (793,000 gallons) of seawater. It incorporates a 98 meter (322 ft) underwater tunnel. For a fee, snorkelers and divers can get even closer to the fish, sharks, and rays by joining the aquarium’s dive master in exploring the main tank. 9Aquarium of Genoa (about 1 million gallons) flickr/ Roby Ferrari Built for Expo 92, the Aquarium of Genoa in Italy is one of the largest aquariums in Europe. The aquarium’s 70 tanks reproduce marine and terrestrial habitats from throughout the world and provide a home for more than 6000 animals. Some tanks reproduce natural environments from different areas as the Mediterranean, the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. The most spectacular ones are those housing the sharks, the dolphins and the seals. 8Shanghai Ocean Aquarium (about 1 million gallons) flickr/ hunxue-er The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in Asia.

It is composed of 9 exhibition zones of all over the world, including the China Zone, the Antarctic Zone and the Australia Zone. The China Zone is home to several endangered Chinese aquatic species, including rare and precious species from the Yangtze River. The biggest attraction of the aquarium is the underwater tunnel. At 155 meter (509 ft) it is the longest underwater tunnel in the world. 7uShaka Marine World (about 1 million gallons) flickr/ * cris * The uShaka Marine World is a theme park located in Durban, South Africa . It contains the largest aquarium in Africa boasting 32 tanks. The sea creatures found in the aquarium range from small sea horses all the way through to sharks and dolphins. The Aquarium is built to look like an old wreck and contains a number of restaurants and cafes. The most notable of these restaurants is “The Cargo Hold” restaurant which contains a full wall sized aquarium containing a number of sharks which are visible from most of the dining area. 6Monterey Bay Aquarium (1,2 million gallons) flickr/ Thomas Hawk The Monterey Bay Aquarium is located on the site of a former sardine cannery on Cannery Row in Monterey, California.

Among the aquarium’s numerous exhibits are two gigantic tanks. The centerpiece of the Ocean’s Edge Wing is a 10 meter (33 foot) high 1,3 million liter (0,33 million gallon) tank for viewing California coastal marine life. The other one is a 4,5 million liter (1,2 million gallon) tank in the Outer Bay Wing which features one of the world’s largest single-paned windows. Sealife on exhibit includes stingrays, jellyfish, sea otters, and numerous other native marine species, which can be viewed above and below the waterline. 5Turkuazoo (1,32 million gallons) flickr/ pixage Opened in 2009, Turkuazoo is Turkey’s first giant aquarium featuring a rainforest, flooded forest and tropical seas zones. The aquarium is located inside the Forum Istanbul Shopping Mall and contains a 80 meter long underwater tunnel. Turkuazoo holds about 10,000 sea creatures including tiger sharks, giant stingrays and piranhas in 29 different exhibits where the largest holds 5 million liters (1,32 million gallons) of water.

4L'Oceanografic (1,85 million gallons) flickr/ Adam L’Oceanogràfic is a marine complex where different marine habitats are represented. It is integrated inside a complex known as the City of Arts and Sciences inside the city of Valencia, Spain. The Oceanogràfic features the largest aquarium tank in Europe and houses more than 45,000 marine creatures. They populate nine under water towers, structured on two levels that represent several marine ecosystems. Two underwater towers are joined by a 35 meter underwater tunnel and it’s tank is filled with sharks, rays and 7 million liters (1,85 million gallon) of water. 3Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (1,98 million gallons) flickr/ hello_hiroki The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is located within the Ocean Expo Park in Japan and was opened in 2002.

The main tank of the aquarium, called the Kuroshio Sea, holds 7,5 million liters (1,981,000 gallons) of water and features an acrylic glass panel measuring 8.2 by 22.5 meters (27 by 74 feet) with a thickness of 60 centimeters (24 inches), the largest such panel in the world when the aquarium was opened. Whale sharks and manta rays are kept alongside many other fish species in Kuroshio Sea. As of July 2010, there have been a total of four manta rays born in the aquarium. 2Dubai Mall Aquarium (2,64 million gallons) flickr/ Chu The Dubai Mall, one the world’s largest shopping malls in the world, is part of the 20-billion-dollar Burj Dubai complex in Dubai. The centerpiece of the mall is the gigantic aquarium tank, with the capacity to hold 10 million liters (2,64 million gallons) of water. The aquarium has more than 33,000 living animals including over 400 sharks and rays combined.

It officially earned the Guinness World Record for the world’s “Largest Acrylic Panel”. The panel measures 8.3 by 32.88 meter (27 by 108 feet) and is 75 centimeters (30 inches) thick beating Japan’s Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium to the punch. In February 2010, the shark filled tank sprang a leak causing an evacuation and brief shutdown of the mall. 1Georgia Aquarium (6,3 million gallons) wikipedia/ Zac Wolf The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is the largest aquarium in the world housing more than 100,000 sea creatures. Funded mostly by a $250 million donation from Home Depot co-founder Bernie Marcus, the aquarium opened in November 2005. The Georgia Aquarium is the only institution outside of Asia to house whale sharks. The sharks are kept in a gigantic 24 million liter (6.3 million gallon) tank in the Ocean Voyager exhibit. There has been controversy surrounding the decision of the Georgia Aquarium to house whale sharks. Concerns about keeping the whale sharks in captivity were heightened by the deaths of two of the whale sharks originally obtained.

Related Travel Lists 10 Largest, Biggest & Best Aquariums In the World - Conservation Institute 10 Largest, Biggest & Best Aquariums In the World Sep 7 • Travel • 32294 Views • Comments Off on 10 Largest, Biggest & Best Aquariums In the World Any aquarium enthusiast knows that the majority of aquariums in most cities and towns fall pretty short once you’ve visited even a single spectacular one. The best aquariums in the world offer plenty to enjoy in terms of sheer volume, but also feature exciting and informative exhibits. These aquariums not only are fascinating because they offer an opportunity to learn about the world beneath the ocean, but are also atmospheric and make a visitor feel as if they have stepped into another world. Curious what the biggest aquarium in the world is? Here is a list of the top ten biggest and best aquariums on the planet. 10. The Aquadom The Aquadom (Henrik Berggren/Flickr) The Aquadom may not be the largest aquarium in the world, but it is an impressive and unique experience. The cylindrical aquarium is located inside the atrium of the Radisson Hotel in Berlin.

It is 25 meters high and has a diameter of 11 meters, and contains a million liters of water. There are over 2,600 different species living inside. You can ride an elevator up through the center of the cylinder and look out through the transparent walls. At the top there is a platform you can stand on and look out over the atrium. 9. Shanghai Ocean Aquarium Shanghai Ocean Aquarium (Maja Bieda/Flickr) This aquarium contains just under a million gallons of water, and is one of the largest aquariums in all of Asia. The exhibits are divided according to geographic region (the China Zone, the Australia Zone, and so on). There are a number of endangered species in the collection. The aquarium also houses the longest underwater tunnel on the planet, measuring 509 feet. 8. uShaka Marine World uShaka Marine World (Jose Eduardo Franco/Flickr) This marine-themed park in Durban, South Africa, is home to the largest aquarium on the continent. Thirty-two tanks contain just under a million total gallons of water. The aquarium is constructed to resemble a wreck under the sea. A famous restaurant at the park has a large wall aquarium populated by sharks. 7.

National Aquarium, Baltimore National Aquarium, Baltimore (Forensicaldude/Flickr) The National Aquarium in Baltimore has been open since 1981, and receives around 1.5 million visitors per year. The aquarium contains more than 1 million gallons of water as well as a rainforest terrarium on the roof. There are more than 16,500 specimens living inside, representing around 660 species. 6. Monterey Bay Aquarium Monterey Bay Aquarium (Eric Gardner/Flickr) This famous aquarium is located on Cannery Row in Monterey, California, and contains two massive tanks. One of those tanks on its own contains 1.2 million gallons of water as well as one of the largest single-paned windows on earth. 5. Turkuazoo Turkuazoo (Turkuazoo Akvaryum Istanbul/Flickr) Turkey’s Turkuazoo aquarium opened up in 2009, making it one of the world’s newer giant aquariums. Turkuazoo is located inside the Forum Istanbul Shopping Mall, and includes not only an 80-meter underwater tunnel, but also a rainforest habitat, and a flooded forest wetland habitat.

There are around 10,000 species living in Turkuazoo. The largest tank holds 1.32 million gallons of water. 4. L’Oceanografic L’Oceanografic (Hostel World/Flickr) This giant aquarium is located inside the City of Arts and Sciences, which is actually the name of an exhibition hall in Valencia, Spain. Inside this aquarium is the largest tank in all of Europe, containing 1.85 million gallons of water. There are more than 45,000 species of marine life represented in the L’Oceanografic exhibit. The exterior of this building features very eye-catching modern architecture, and if you’re visiting Valencia, you can’t possibly miss it. 3. The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (Apricot Cafe/Flickr) This aquarium at the Ocean Expo Park opened in 2002 and features a famous exhibit called the Kuroshio Sea. This tank contains almost 2 million gallons of water and has a massive acrylic glass panel. The aquarium is well known for its whale sharks and manta rays.

Only a few aquariums in the world offer visitors the chance to see whale sharks—large and majestic animals that require a great deal of space to thrive. 2. Dubai Mall Aquarium Dubai Mall Aquarium (Saad S Al-Resayes/Flickr) You didn’t think Dubai would sit this one out, did you? The Dubai Mall is already one of the largest shopping malls on the planet, but it is also home to one of the largest aquariums on earth. The aquarium contains a 2.64 million gallon tank with more than 33,000 specimens. The sharks and rays alone account for 400 of these. It now contains the world’s largest acrylic glass panel, bigger even than the one in Okinawa (which set records when it was first constructed). 1. Georgia Aquarium Georgia Aquarium (Jack Lin/Flickr) And the number one largest aquarium on the planet? The honor goes to the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. This aquarium opened up in 2005, thanks to a $250 million grant from Bernie Marcus, the co-founder of the Home Depot hardware store chain. The Georgia Aquarium is well known for a couple of things.

One is the absolutely massive 6.3 million gallon tank containing the Ocean Voyager exhibit. The other is the aquarium’s whale shark population. The Georgia Aquarium is the only aquarium outside of Asia to serve as a home for whale sharks. That’s not necessarily a boon, however, since two of the sharks have died, and there are some concerns that the aquarium isn’t an appropriate home for them. If you have ever had the chance to visit one of these massive aquariums or any others which are of a similar caliber, you know what an amazing experience it can be. If you haven’t, though, and you have only visited a small local aquarium with a handful of specimens, you have really only gotten a taste of the fun and wonder that aquariums have to offer. These world-class aquariums not only feature magnificent displays, but also can teach you a great deal about the planet’s underwater ecology. Many are run by marine scientists who are involved with important conservation efforts, and the fee you pay to visit will go toward helping these underwater species to survive in a changing world. Next time you are in one of these cities, be sure to set aside a day to enjoy one of the world’s largest and best aquariums.

It will be an experience you will remember forever! World's Largest Aquarium Opens in Singapore - ABC News ABC News World's Largest Aquarium Opens in Singapore December 3, 2012 Genevieve Shaw Brown More from Genevieve » Travel & Lifestyle Editor Wong Maye-E/AP Photo Fans of marine life, time to plan a trip to Singapore. A new aquarium - which claims to be the world's largest - opened in late November on the resort island of Sentosa. It is called the S.E.A. Aquarium, and it is home to 100,000 marine animals of over 800 species in 45 million liters - almost 12 million gallons - of water. Comprising 10 different zones with 49 habitats, the aquarium aims to take visitors on an underwater voyage beginning from Southeast Asia, and continuing through the Arabian Gulf and the open ocean. The Open Ocean habitat is viewed through the world's largest viewing panel. It is 36 meters wide and 8.3 meters tall, or about 118 by 27 feet. Aquarium admission is about $24 for an adult. "S.E.A.

Aquarium offers not only a stunning display of habitats, but also education and conservation programs in which families and guests can participate," S.E.A. Aquarium Senior Curator Grant Willis said in a news release. "Younger guests will be thrilled to know that we have specially-designed exhibits such as the Discovery Touch Pool, the Lens Aquarium and Floor Aquarium, to provide them up-close encounters with our marine residents." Atlanta's Georgia Aquarium , which opened in 2005, has also claimed to be the world's largest, with "more than 10 million gallons of water," according to its website. The Georgia Aquarium was the result of a $250 million gift to the city of Atlanta from Bernie Marcus, co-founder of The Home Depot. The same day the Singapore aquarium opened, the resort also opened the Adventure Cove Waterpark, with six water slides including a water coaster, a wave pool and a lazy river. There are also opportunities for interaction with marine life. Rainbow Reef offers snorkeling with fish and swimming with sting rays. Dolphin and shark interactions are coming next year.

The World's Largest Aquarium [25 pics] «TwistedSifter Photograph via GEORGIA AQUARIUM The Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the world, whether you’re measuring by the number of fish or volume of water. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, USA at Pemberton Place, it has more than 8.5-million-US-gallon (32,000 m3) of marine and fresh water housing more than 120,000 animals of 500 different species in 60 different habitats. The aquarium’s notable specimens include four young whale sharks, four beluga whales, and four manta rays. There is 12,000 square feet of viewing windows and cost $290 million USD to build. World’s Largest Aquarium, Ocean Kingdom, Opens In ‘The Orlando Of China’ World’s Largest Aquarium, Ocean Kingdom, Opens In ‘The Orlando Of China’ 04/07/14 AT 5:55 AM A graphic illustration shows the grand plan for Ocean Kingdom.

Photo: PGAV Destinations China’s sky-high ambitions to build the world’s largest everything have found a new outlet in Hengqin Island, a once sleepy southern isle that’s uncoincidentally located next to the world’s biggest gambling hub, Macau. Guinness World Records just declared the island’s debut attraction, Ocean Kingdom, the world’s biggest aquarium. A staggering 48.75 million liters (12.87 million gallons) of salt and fresh water helped it usurp the title from the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta when it officially opened to the public last weekend. Yet, Ocean Kingdom’s superlatives don't stop there. The $806.5 million complex, a 15-minute drive from Macau, not only set the Guinness World Record for largest aquarium but it also broke four other records, mostly for its gargantuan whale shark exhibit, which is itself the world’s largest tank, with a volume of 22.7 million liters (5.99 million gallons) of salt water.

The whale shark tank features the world’s largest acrylic panel and largest aquarium window at 39.6 meters (129 feet, 11.05 inches) by 8.3 meters (27 feet, 2.77 inches), and similarly claims the world’s largest underwater viewing dome, with an external diameter of 12 meters (29 feet, 4.44 inches). “Breaking any world record is amazing, but to become the world’s largest aquarium requires phenomenal creative vision and immense engineering efforts,” Rowan Simons, president of Guinness World Records Greater China, said at Ocean Kingdom’s official opening event last weekend. “The result is an incredible attraction experience, and Guinness World Records is delighted to recognize the five specific world-beating achievements that make it so special.” Ocean Kingdom welcomed a half-million visitors during its unofficial “soft opening” in January, and the 143-hectare (353-acre) complex hopes to woo a large chunk of the 29 million tourists who visit Macau each year now that it’s opened in full.

Each of the park’s seven sections ushers visitors through the world’s waterways from the Amazon to Antarctica, offering an up-close look at an array of creatures like whale sharks, tropical spotted dolphins and Chinese white dolphins. Ocean Kingdom is connected by a 1,000-meter (3,280-foot) “Grand Canal” to the Chimelong Hengqin Bay Hotel, which claims to be the “largest ecologically themed hotel in China.” Both Hengqin Island attractions are part of the greater Chimelong International Ocean Resort, whose goal is to become Asia’s first themed resort combining animal exhibits, thrill rides and entertainment. Related Stories The Rise Of The Chinese Tourist If Ocean Kingdom sounds like something of a mix between Magic Kingdom and SeaWorld, that’s precisely the point. The resort’s developer, Guangdong Chimelong Group, has stated that it hopes to turn Hengqin Island into “the Orlando of China,” using the Florida city as a model. Chimelong Group made a name for itself in 2006 when it opened China’s largest theme park, Chimelong Paradise, in Guangzhou. PGAV Destinations, the St.

Louis-based design team behind the new aquarium, is known for its regional work on Hong Kong’s Grand Aquarium and the Terracotta Warriors Museum in Xi’an, as well as attractions at SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Six Flags. Both companies have their eyes squarely on the future of Hengqin. Hengqin Island boasts just 8,000 residents, but the Chinese government estimates that its population could skyrocket to a quarter of a million in six year’s time. In addition to the myriad tourism projects in the pipeline -- including the world’s tallest Ferris wheel and longest wooden roller coaster -- the Special Economic Zone could also house a new university, dozens of hotels, three golf courses and two yacht clubs -- if all goes to plan. 25 Best Aquariums In America | US City Traveler US City Traveler Noteworthy Travel 25 Best Aquariums In America 25 Best Aquariums In America March 10, 2014 E-mail Get lost in halls of wondrous fishes and exotic marine mammals with a trip to the nation’s top aquariums.

Millions of visitors flock to America’s best aquariums each year to be swept under the tides of various salt and freshwater scenes with the most unique and intriguing marine life found in the world. Some of the top aquariums in the US display an assortment of species that live anywhere from the cold rushing river waters to the flourishing coral reefs found along tropical shores. Check out the best aquariums in the US to see what lives beneath the surfaces of the world’s lakes, streams and seas. 1. Georgia Aquarium , Atlanta, GA The Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the world with 550,000 square feet of exhibits, including over 100,000 animals. The Georgia Aquarium is home to the only whale sharks outside of Asia. One of the newest exhibits is the $110 million dolphin exhibit that features the theatrical “Dolphin Tales” show. Also see belugas, sea otters, African penguins, and a variety of manta rays. Much of the Georgia Aquarium is meant to add to the educational experience with various programs in the ‘Learning Loop’. The aquarium also offers trainer and animal performances, as well as productions about underwater life in the iconic 4-D Theater.

General admission is $39.95 for adults, $31.95 for seniors and $29.95 for children. 2. Shedd Aquarium , Chicago, IL The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Illinois receives over 2 million annual visitors and houses over 8,000 marine animals. This aquarium opened its doors in 1930, when it became the first inland aquarium to display a permanent collection of saltwater fishes. The Shedd Aquarium is, as Forbes Traveler puts it, “awe-inspiring” between the dolphins and beluga whales that put on a show, and the chance for kids to dress up like penguins and enter a small kiddie submarine at the Polar Play Zone. From anacondas, to piranhas, to sharks, to California sea lions, you’re sure to leave feeling impressed and well educated. General admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children. 3. National Aquarium , Baltimore, MD The National Aquarium in Baltimore opened in 1981 and is certainly a hands-on experience with many opportunities to get up close and personal with marine life. The dolphin shows provide a unique educational experience as trainers reveal gestures used during presentations and interactive sessions.

The National Aquarium allows you to get acquainted with the 16,000 marine animals that live in its halls, ranging from the fishes and sharks to the land animals such as two-toed sloths and puffins. This particular aquarium is ranked No. 1 by Coastal Living and costs $34.95 for adults, $29.95 for seniors and 21.95 for children. 4. Aquarium of the Pacific , Longbeach, CA The 5-acre Aquarium of Pacific in Longbeach, California holds over 500 species of marine animals to include over a hundred rays and sharks. The Aquarium of the Pacific allows each visitor to discover the depth of the world’s largest ocean—the vast Pacific. A world of underwater animals call this aquarium home, from seals and sea lions to the Magellanic Penguins taken from ‘the bottom of the world’ or the tip of South America. They now feature a NASA show that offers an educational look at Earth’s rhythms. Admission costs $25.95 for adults, $14.95 for children and $22.95 for seniors. 5.

New England Aquarium , Boston, MA The New England Aquarium in Boston, Massachusetts holds a diverse collection of marine life from all over the world. From the African penguins and Austraian spotted jellies, to the Northern fur seals, sharks and giant octopus found in more familiar waters, New England Aquarium offers a firsthand glimpse into the extent of biodiversity found in the world’s oceans. The facility is home to 20,000 animals making up 600 different species to see. Kids will love the Edge of Sea touch tank and live presentations with animals and trainers. The aquarium costs $24.95 for adults and $17.95 for children. 6. Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach , Myrtle Beach, SC Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach offers guests a glimpse into the ocean’s past with a chance to touch the prehistoric horseshoe crab. This aquarium covers 85,000 square feet with exhibits displaying anything from piranhas to poison dart frogs. Many exotic and even poisonous species can be found throughout Ripley’s Aquarium, and yes, it has sharks—with the bonnethead and leopard sharks to name a few.

Ripley’s Aquarium offers you plenty of chances to get closer to marine life and touch sharks and stingrays. General admission costs $21.99 for adults and $11.99 for children. 7. Steinhart Aquarium , San Francisco, CA The Steinhart Aquarium is a fun and educational experience with over 38,000 animals from across the globe. You can watch the sharks and stingrays swim the waters beneath your shoes and come face to face with African penguins all in one day. With over 900 species, don’t be surprised if you come across a creature you’ve never seen before! Not only will you learn from the abundance of animals onsite, but the exhibits offer an eye-opening look at the water as a major life-sustaining substance here on Earth. Steinhart Aquarium costs $34.95 for adults, $29.95 for senior, student and youth, and $24.95 for children. 8. Monterey Bay Aquarium , Monterey, CA Just minutes from Pebble Beach, Monterey Bay Aquarium rests along the Pacific coast. This aquarium is among America’s favorite aquariums for its impressive collections and playful marine mammals.

You get the chance to see sea otters, giant octopi and one of the most diverse and largest collections of seahorse species around. The aquarium offers daily activities and underwater shows—so check the website before you go! General admission at Monterey Bay Aquarium costs $39.95 for adults, $34.95 for seniors and students, and $24.95 for children. 9. Newport Aquarium , Cincinnati, OH Featuring 70 sprawling exhibits and 14 galleries, all placed within over a million gallons of water, this aquarium showcases thousands of animals from around the world and houses the largest jellyfish gallery in the Midwest. Their rain forest habitat includes Oriental Small-clawed Otter, Burmese pythons, Kookaburra, and a number of colorful lorikeets. Gator Alley is home to white gators and Mighty Mike, the largest american alligator outside of Florida. Penguin Palooza is home to King penguin, Inca tern, Chinstrap penguin, Gentoo penguin, Macaroni Penguin and Rockhopper penguin.

They also have dangerous and deadly specimens like the gila monster, red lionfish, pinecone fish, electric eel, gaboon viper, and the whitespotted bamboo shark. General admission is $23 for adults and $15 for children. 10. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas , New Orleans, LA The New Orleans aquarium has made a nice recovery from the devastating impact of Hurricane Katrina. It features African Blackfooted penguins, exotic birds such as parakeets, sea otters, white crocodiles and even a hurricane simulator. Discover a Caribbean reef with a walk-through tunnel and a 400,000-gallon tank with sharks and tarpon. Kids get hands-on experience with sea creatures in a touch pool at the Animal Grossology exhibit. Their Amazon exhibit provides a humid, climate-controlled greenhouse that is a prominent feature of the riverfront and includes macaws, piranhas, an anaconda, freshwater stingrays, and other specimens from the area basin. Admission is $22.95 for adults, $17 for seniors and $16 for children. 11.

Downtown Aquarium , Houston, TX Located in downtown Houston, this 6-acre, 500,000 galloon aquarium opened in 2003 and houses over 200 species of aquatic animals and features a popular restaurant where guests can view the aquariums 110,000-US-gallon centerpiece aquarium–which is the largest cylindrical tank in the United States–all while dining to some of the best gourmet fare in town. Exhibits include alligators, lionfish, bullfrogs, clownfish, macaws, stingrays, catfish, nurse sharks, bamboo sharks, and even white tigers. As if all that wasn’t enough, they also have an on-site ferris wheel, train, carousel, and even a 65-foot drop ride! Admission is $9.99 for adults, $8.99 for seniors, and $6.99 for children 2-12. 12. Florida Aquarium , Tampa, FL Known for its arching glass roof, this aquarium focuses on native Florida species. The famed Coral Reef Gallery offers panoramic windows and walk-through tunnels, and packs quite a fun experience into a fun time.

Children love Explore-A-Shore, a 2-acre watery outdoor playground with water canons, geysers, and animal shows (bring swimsuits). Bonuses include the opportunities to swim with fish and sharks, or take a relaxing two-hour boat eco-tour of Tampa Bay. Regular priced admission is $21.95 for adults, $18.95 for seniors, and $16.95 for children under 12. They also offer reduced online ticket prices. 13. Dallas World Aquarium , Dallas, TX Step into the rainforest exhibit, where exotic birds, such as Cocks-of-the-rock and many species of toucans, can be seen in their beautiful habitat. Spot active Two-toed and Three-toed sloths, the endangered Orinoco crocodiles, Giant river otters, Antillean manatees and several species of monkeys. The aquarium portion is home to Japanese crabs, jellyfish, and even Leafy, Weedy and Ribbon seadragons. Black-footed and Blue penguins can be seen swimming as guests enjoy the outdoor South Africa exhibit. Sharks, rays and sawfish can be found in the Mundo Maya cenote.

Whether you’re coming to spot the abundance of reptiles and amphibians, or simply to get a reason to spend a few hours experiencing quality family time, the Dallas World Aquarium never fails to disappoint! Admission is $20.95 for adults, $16.94 for seniors, and $12.95 for children. 14. Miami Seaquarium , Miami, FL This smaller version of Orlando’s SeaWorld is a true must-see for anyone in the Miami area. The 38-acre Miami Seaquarium features the opportunity to play with dolphins, see a sea lion shows and killer whale presentation, and good ‘ole hang out time in the Main Reef Aquarium, a 750,000-gallon saltwater aquarium that comes packed with reef fish. Reef Presentations let you observe a diver as they hand feeds the tropical fish, groupers, cobia, loggerhead turtles and moray eels. See manatees, seals, and stingrays. They are currently celebrating Flipper’s 50th anniversary because this aquarium is where the classic Flipper TV series was filmed.

This celebration will include a number of new events, activities, initiatives and happenings throughout the property and beyond, more of which can be read about here . General admission is $41.95 for adults and $31.95 for children. 15. Tennessee Aquarium , Chattanooga, TN The largest freshwater aquarium in the world at the time of its opening, The Tennessee Aquarium continues to delight and educate those of all ages. The River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings are currently home to more than 12,000 animals, including fish, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, birds, 20 penguins, countless butterflies, and so much more. The original River Journey facility is organized around the theme of the Story of the River, following the path of a raindrop from high in the Appalachian Mountains to the Gulf of Mexico. The self-guided tour takes visitors through three living forest exhibits that teem with life above and below the water’s surface, all while visitors see animals like free-flying song birds, snapping turtles, sandbar and sand tiger sharks, stingrays, river otters, and moray eels.

Ocean Journey, which opened in 2005, includes more hands on displays, such as a large shark tank and ray touch tank, large macaws, jellyfish, cuttlefish, giant Pacific octopuses, and Japanese spider crabs. Admission is $24.95 for adults and $14.95 for children. 16. Texas State Aquarium , Corpus Cristi, TX After more than 20 years of preparation, the highly anticipated Texas State Aquarium opened in 1990. Several tanks display a variety of ecosystems found in the Gulf of Mexico and coastal Texas, from coral reefs with sharks and barracuda swimming about to jetty systems with crabs and flounders to East Texas swamps and their alligators. Spot octopuses, turtles, and sea horses, and even find stingray or bamboo shark in the touch tanks. One of the latest additions to the aquarium is Dolphin Bay, a protected environment for Atlantic bottle-nosed dolphins that are unable to survive in the wild. Admission is $18.95 for adults, $17.95 for seniors, and $13.95 for children. 17.

Moody Gardens , Galveston, TX See penguins, seahorses and seals in this 12-story pyramid with 1.5 million gallons of water that house over 10,000 marine animals, divided into four areas based on: The Caribbean, The South Atlantic, The North Pacific, and The South Pacific. Come face to face with sharks in the underwater tunnel. Also see tropical plants and birds in “one of the most authentic rainforest recreations in the world,” with 10,000 species of plants in this 10-story glass pyramid. They also have an IMAX theater, a paddle-wheel excursion boat, a golf course and a luxurious hotel. Admission to the aquarium pyramid is $21.95 for adults and $17.95 for children. Or a combination day pass can be purchased for everything at an online rate of $46.95. 18. Oregon Coast Aquarium , Newport, OR Sitting on 23-acres in the city of Newport, this aquarium first opened in 1992 and has grown to attract nearly half a million visitors each year.

Unlike many larger aquariums, this medium-sized aquarium holds a strong focus on animals from all across Oregon’s coast. These include turtles, sea otters, seals, sea lions, many kinds of birds, and a wide variety of jellyfish. They play a strong rule in educating and informing, while also focusing on conservation and animal rehabilitation. For an added fee, “Animal Encounters” turns visitors into personal chefs for octopuses, sea otters, sharks, or sea lions. General admission is $18.95 for adults, $16.95 for seniors (ages 65+) and young adults (13-17), and $11.95 for children. 19. Ripley’s Aquarium , Gatlinburg, TN See 35 penguins at the aquarium that has been voted as the number one aquarium in America by TripAdvisor. Come just steps away from deadly 12-foot sharks, see the giant sea turtle, thousands of exotic sea creatures and schools of colorful fish as you enjoy the state-of-the-art clear underwater tunnels throughout the Aquarium!

Their newest exhibit is called “Slime,” giving guests the chance to see over 30 interactive exhibits that give the opportunity to touch jellyfish and see over 15 new tanks with snails, slugs, worms, mud puppy, discus fish, hagfish, African lungfish, and a number of others that you’re likely to have never laid eyes on before! See dive and feeding shows, pet horseshoe crabs and stingrays, and so much more at this fun-filled family experience in the heart of Gatlinburg, and just a short drive from nearby Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. General admission is $24.99 for adults, $14.99 for children ages 6-11, and $6.99 for children ages 2-5. 20. Alaska Sealife Center , Seward, AK Alaska’s only permanent marine mammal rehabilitation facility dedicates itself to the research, rehabilitation and education of native Alaska marine species. Get the opportunity to have an aquarium experience unlike one that you’ve ever had before, such as shadowing researchers working with area harbor seals or touring the center’s aviary with a bird keeper.

See large two-story high habitats with sea birds and sea lions, touch an anemone, and simply take a minute to take in the fresh air while admiring the views of Resurrection Bay. General admission is $20 for adults, $15 for students ages 12-17, and $10 for children ages 4-11. For an additional $5, visitors can take the behind-the-scenes tour to see what the aquarium is doing in the form of research and rehabilitation. 21. South Carolina Aquarium , Charleston, SC Prior to the aquarium’s opening in 2000, Charleston was known for being more adult friendly and having a tad bit less to offer for the playful kiddos. Nowadays, kids will enjoy a break from the old world charm, all right here inside Charleston’s world class local aquarium. See more than 10,000 plants and animals, including North American river otters, loggerhead sea turtles, great blue herons, hawks, owls, lined seahorses, jellyfish, pufferfish, green moray eels, horseshoe crabs, sea stars, pythons, and sharks. This 93,000 sq.

ft. building includes 9 sprawling galleries that range from showcasing a rare albino American alligator (one of only 50 in the world) to an interactive stingray feeding exhibit. Return time and time again for their elaborate changing exhibits, which currently features “Madagascar Journey,” which is where ring-tailed lemurs, white spotted bamboo sharks, and Tomato frogs can all be seen! Admission is $24.95 for adults and $14.95 for children. 22. New York Aquarium , New York City, NY This is the oldest continually operating aquarium in the United States, having opened in Castle Garden in Battery Park, Manhattan in 1896. Since 1957, it has been located on the boardwalk in Coney Island, Brooklyn. See 14 acres, as this aquarium boasts over 350 species of aquatic wildlife, with species including Pacific walrus, sea otter, California sea lion, black-footed penguin, and numerous colorful fish. Its mission is to raise public awareness about issues facing the ocean and its inhabitants with special exhibits, public events and research.

A massive new $157 million addition is currently in the works, which will be titled Ocean Wonders: Sharks! and it is scheduled to open in the summer of 2016. It will feature more than 100 species of marine animals, both local and from around the world, including sharks, rays, sea turtles and many others. General admission is $9.95. 23. Downtown Aquarium , Denver, CO Much like the Houston Downtown Aquarium, the Denver location features over one million gallons of marine life, showcasing fascinating ecosystems around the world. Witness over 500 species of animals, including the interactive Stingray Reef touch tank, and even tigers! The girls will be especially stoked about seeing their real life mermaids who gracefully swim amongst the fish in the “Mystic Mermaids” interactive show that is choreographed to music (be sure to check their website ahead of time for show times)! Dine at the Aquarium Restaurant, Dive Lounge, the Nautilus Ballroom and amusements for the entire family. Tickets are $17.99 for adults, $16.99 for seniors, and $11.99 for children. 24.

Adventure Aquarium , Camden, NJ See over 2 millions gallons of water with nearly 10,000 animals from around the world at this popular Philadelphia area aquarium, which was formerly called the New Jersey State Aquarium. Witness Nile hippopotami, sea dragons, jellies, Giant Pacific octopus, along with a diverse selection of sharks. Make appointments ahead of time to get to actually swim with the sharks in the tank itself by actually snorkeling along the outer edge of the tank in a concrete channel. That can all be done in the newer North Building; the original South Building features an abundance of native Atlantic specimens, an ocean tank, and even a collection of unusual animals that you’re likely to not have seen before. Adventure Aquarium is also one of a select few in the country that allows its visitors to touch moon jellies, northern lobsters, or pink shrimp, and it is the only aquarium in the country that allows guests to touch all three! General admission is $24.95 for adults and $18.95 for children. 25. Waikiki Aquarium , Honolulu, HI The second oldest aquarium in the United States happens to be the Waikiki Aquarium, which was founded in 1904.

See over 3,500 species, many of which are distinctive to the Hawaiian island chain, including the Hawaiian monk seal, one of the world’s most endangered species (there are only about 1,000 left). Also see a number of reefs, including the oldest living collection of corals in the US. Be sure to check out the peppermint angelfish, a French Polynesian native that’s currently on loan from the Smithsonian and valued at more than $30,000. Consider taking the Behind the Scenes Tour to see where their coral is propagated, learn how the aquarium runs and see how it’s exhibits are created. General admission is $12 for adults and $5 for children and seniors. Also consider checking out my critically acclaimed podcast on America’s Best Zoos ! What’s your favorite aquarium? I’d love to hear from you in the comments section below. Related Post

Question: What city has the world's largest aquarium?
Answer: Atlanta