Plan Your Aquarium Visit

Get the most out of your visit by downloading the Aquarium app on your Apple or Android device.

For the best experience consider visiting on weekdays or before 11 a.m. or after 3 p.m. on weekends and holidays. 

With fewer people in the building, you'll enjoy more opportunities to linger in galleries, watching for animal behaviors.

If you are able to visit only during peak times, keep in mind that during summer, spring break, and on holidays, the Aquarium may sell out of tickets, or you may be given an entry time a few hours away. Skip the ticket line and get a guaranteed entry time by buying your tickets online in advance.

Because of the escalators and moving walkways inside the Aquarium, strollers cannot be used.

Consider leaving your stroller at home or in the trunk of your car. If you do bring a stroller, Aquarium staff will store it for you and provide a back or front child carrier. The higher vantage point will also provide your children with a better view of many exhibits. Learn More

The Aquarium offers convenient services for special-needs visitors.

A drop-off circle is located in front of the Aquarium on Pratt Street, and an accessible entrance is located just beyond the main entrance.

Additional resources are available, and with advance notice, we will make special arrangements to accommodate our visitors' needs. Learn More

All guests have unlimited access to the Dolphin Discovery Exhibit. See the dolphins any time, for as long as you like, and enjoy interactive sessions with the dolphin team, including dolphin enrichment, feedings and play activities. Included with admission.

The Aquarium's 4-D Immersion Films combine the visual drama of a 3-D film with a variety of sensory effects.

Films are transformed into 15-minute experiences and virtually bring on-screen images to life with added effects, such as water mist, snow, bubbles, scents, enhanced lighting and seat vibrations! Add on a 4-D Immersion Film for $5 a person. Select show and time when buying tickets. See What's Playing

Please note: The 4-D Theater uses theatrical lighting, including strobe lights. Please use discretion if your child is easily startled, or if you have medical conditions related to your back.

Enjoy fresh, delicious food at the Aquarium's cafes.

The Aquarium's Harbor Market Kitchen cafe serves up food that is fresh, delicious and produced in eco-friendly ways. See All Dining Options

Take a piece of the Aquarium home with you! The National Aquarium features four gift shops, with friendly staff on hand to assist you in finding the perfect souvenir. Major credit cards are accepted, and shipping is available.

Aquarium Shop
The Aquarium's main gift shop, located at the top of the escalator just past the main entrance, offers more than 5,000 square feet in retail space. Contact the Aquarium Shop at 443-573-0852.

Dolphin Shop
Located on the first level of the Pier 4 Pavilion just outside the main entrance to the dolphin amphitheater.

Shark Shop
Located on the level above the Wings in the Water underwater viewing area and next to the top of the escalator.

Online Gift Shop
From apparel and toys to books and jewelry, now you can purchase Aquarium merchandise anytime! Shop Online

Enjoy a smooth and safe trip through the Aquarium. Several escalators and moving walkways are throughout our buildings as a convenient way to travel from floor to floor.

Please use caution when wearing flip-flops, open-toed shoes, and/or rubber-soled footwear. Stay alert, and be sure to remain clear of the sides, and step over the comb plate at the end of an escalator or moving walkway.

Elevators displaying the wheelchair accessibility symbol have been designated for use by visitors who use wheelchairs while touring Aquarium buildings.

For a small fee, lockers and coat check are located inside the main entrance, to the right, on the ground level of Blue Wonders.

For the safety of our visitors, all bags, backpacks, and packages are subject to inspection prior to entering the Aquarium.

Re-entry may require additional screening. Please be aware, these entrance security procedures may cause slight delays while entering the Aquarium.