The National Aquarium in Baltimore seeks to stimulate interest in, develop knowledge about, and inspire stewardship of aquatic environments.
A member of the Baltimore community, Maryland's leading tourist attraction, and an international icon, the Aquarium provides cultural, recreational, and educational experiences that meet the needs of diverse communities. We are committed to contribute substantially to the economic development of the local region by conducting a financially stable business in a way that demonstrates an awareness of community needs.
The Aquarium adheres to the highest principles of husbandry, staff development, fiscal responsibility, and economy of resources, and we strive to provide effective outreach and conservation programs. Meanwhile, we conduct research and utilize state-of-the-art technology.
The Aquarium's Values
In all operations, we practice and promote the highest standards of animal husbandry.
To be the best aquarium in the world, we owe our visitors the finest possible experience from their first point of contact. By constant evaluation of visitor satisfaction, we strive to exceed expectations for facts, fun, friendliness, and service.
We strive to recruit, train, and develop exceptionally talented and effective board of directors and staff.
We create a safe work environment which encourages teamwork, personal initiative, and accountability.
We are accountable for the efficient use of our internal resources of capital, facilities, and personnel. We promote appropriate use of natural resources through example, education, and action.
Exhibit Philosophy
The Aquarium's exhibit philosophy flows directly from the mission and value statements. The Aquarium strives to blend naturalistic exhibit elements with the most modern interpretive techniques, engaging visitors by focusing on the beauty of the aquatic world and thereby eliciting an emotional response and awakening in visitors the desire to be environmentally responsible.
Exhibits are designed to replicate natural environments and avoid the unnatural mixing of species. Specimens are chosen to give the best examples of biological concepts in an interesting and accurate way. The collections embrace diverse world-wide habitats.
The ultimate goal is for the exhibits and programs to spark responsible actions in visitors.
