The New York Aquarium, located in Coney Island, Brooklyn, is the oldest continually operating aquarium in the United States. It’s a part of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and offers a variety of marine exhibits, educational programs, and conservation initiatives. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit.
Overview of New York Aquarium
Location
- Address: 602 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11224 (Coney Island)
- Proximity: Situated on the famous Coney Island Boardwalk, steps away from the beach and other iconic attractions like Luna Park.
Size and Scope
- Area: The aquarium covers 14 acres of exhibits, outdoor spaces, and aquatic displays.
- Animals: Home to over 500 marine species, including sharks, sea lions, sea otters, and thousands of other ocean creatures.
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Major Exhibits and Attractions to New York Aquarium
Ocean Wonders: Sharks!
- Overview: The largest exhibit at the New York Aquarium, this state-of-the-art building showcases various shark species and other marine life.
- Highlights:
- Sharks: Sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, and blacktip reef sharks.
- Interactive Displays: Touch tanks and multimedia exhibits about shark conservation.
- Other Species: Rays, sea turtles, and schools of colorful fish.
- Shark Tunnel: Walk through an underwater tunnel with sharks swimming all around you.
Sea Cliffs
- Overview: An outdoor exhibit featuring animals from rocky coastal environments.
- Highlights:
- California Sea Lions: Visitors can watch playful sea lions swimming and lounging on rocks.
- Sea Otters: See adorable otters as they swim, dive, and play in their habitat.
- Penguins: The Sea Cliffs also house black-footed penguins.
Conservation Hall
- Overview: Dedicated to various ecosystems, showcasing tropical coral reefs and freshwater environments.
- Highlights:
- Coral Reef: Brilliantly colored fish and coral from the Caribbean.
- Amazon Rainforest: Exhibits featuring piranhas, anacondas, and exotic birds.
- Pacific Coast: Seals, sea stars, and other coastal creatures.
Glover’s Reef
- Overview: Named after a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Belize, this exhibit replicates a portion of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.
- Highlights:
- Marine Biodiversity: Explore a vibrant coral ecosystem filled with fish, eels, and rays.
4-D Theater
- Overview: A fun, immersive experience that combines a short movie with environmental effects like wind, water, and bubbles.
- Show Themes: Often focuses on marine conservation and sea creatures.
- Tip: Suitable for families and younger visitors.
Sea Lion Shows at the Aquatheater
- Overview: Watch sea lions perform tricks and interact with their trainers in the outdoor theater.
- Schedule: Shows take place several times a day and are included with general admission.
- Educational: Learn about sea lion behavior, biology, and conservation efforts.
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New York Aquarium Visitor Information
Hours of Operation
- Typical Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Seasonal Variations: Check the aquarium’s website for specific hours, as they may change seasonally.
Admission
- General Admission: Tickets can be purchased online or at the aquarium. Prices vary by age and time of visit.
- Discounts: Children (under 12), seniors, and students can get discounted tickets. Membership options offer year-round access.
- Free Wednesdays: Admission is free on Wednesday afternoons (starting at 3:00 PM), but donations are suggested.
Membership
- Wildlife Conservation Society Membership: Includes unlimited access to the aquarium as well as other WCS attractions, such as the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, and Queens Zoo.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Access: The aquarium is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
- Special Assistance: Available for guests with disabilities—contact ahead for special accommodations.
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Tips for Visiting New York Aquarium
Plan Your Day
- Arrival: Arrive early, especially on weekends and during the summer, to avoid crowds and long lines.
- Map: Pick up a map or download the New York Aquarium app to navigate the exhibits more easily.
Best Time to Visit
- Off-Peak Days: Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience, especially in the mornings.
- Seasonal Visits: While the aquarium is open year-round, the outdoor exhibits and sea lion shows are more enjoyable in warmer months.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
- Comfort: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
- Weather-Appropriate: Since some exhibits are outdoors, dress for the weather and bring sunscreen if visiting in summer.
Food and Dining
- Café: There is an on-site café serving snacks, sandwiches, and hot meals.
- Picnic Areas: You can also bring your own food and enjoy it at designated picnic areas near the aquarium.
Photography
- Photos: Photography is allowed in most exhibits, but flash is prohibited to avoid disturbing the animals.
Souvenirs
- Gift Shop: Visit the aquarium’s gift shop for marine-themed souvenirs, toys, and books that support conservation efforts.
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Getting There
By Subway
- Nearest Stations: Take the D, F, N, or Q trains to Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue Station. The aquarium is a short walk from the station, located on the Coney Island Boardwalk.
By Bus
- Routes: Several bus routes stop near the aquarium, including the B36 and B68.
By Car
- Parking: Paid parking is available in the aquarium’s lot, but it can fill up quickly, especially in the summer. Alternatively, there are nearby public parking lots along the boardwalk.
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Educational Programs and Special Events
Educational Programs
- Daily Feedings: Watch animal feedings, such as sharks and sea otters, and listen to zookeepers talk about the animals’ diets and habitats.
- School Programs: The aquarium offers field trips, workshops, and hands-on learning for school groups.
- Conservation Programs: Many programs focus on ocean conservation, marine biology, and the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.
Special Events
- Ocean Fun Days: Themed events throughout the year, including conservation days, kids’ activities, and special presentations.
- Halloween Celebration: Family-friendly events, including themed exhibits and activities during Halloween.
- Holiday Season: Holiday-themed shows, festive decorations, and winter exhibits for the whole family.
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Conservation Efforts
The New York Aquarium is deeply involved in marine conservation efforts and education. As part of the Wildlife Conservation Society, the aquarium supports global and local initiatives to protect endangered species, restore coral reefs, reduce ocean pollution, and promote sustainable fishing practices.
- Gulf of Maine: A focus on conserving critical marine habitats.
- Project Ocean: An initiative raising awareness about the importance of healthy oceans and marine life.
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Nearby Attractions
After exploring the aquarium, consider visiting other nearby attractions in Coney Island:
- Coney Island Beach: Right next to the aquarium for a relaxing stroll or dip in the ocean.
- Luna Park: Famous amusement park with thrilling rides, including the iconic Cyclone roller coaster.
- Nathan’s Famous: Enjoy a classic New York hot dog at the original Nathan’s, located just a short walk away.
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Conclusion
The New York Aquarium is a must-visit destination for families, marine life enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an engaging and educational experience. From the immersive Ocean Wonders: Sharks! exhibit to the entertaining sea lion shows, the aquarium offers a variety of exciting attractions and opportunities to learn about the oceans and conservation efforts. Pair your visit with a trip to Coney Island’s famous boardwalk and beach for a full day of fun.
