National Aquarium to Require COVID-19 Vaccinations for Guests

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 public health crisis, the National Aquarium will require all guests 12 years of age and older to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination upon entry. The new policy takes effect on Tuesday, January 25, 2022, and is the latest addition to the Aquarium's ongoing commitment to protecting our guests, staff, volunteers and animals.

Upon entry to the Aquarium, guests will be asked to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination. Any vaccine that has been approved by the World Health Organization will be accepted under this policy, including Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson and Johnson. Full vaccination means guests have received a full dosage of an approved vaccine at least 14 days prior to the date of scheduled visitation to the Aquarium.

The following are acceptable proofs of vaccination:

• The original, copy or digital photo of the CDC vaccination card or similar document from another state, local or foreign government that clearly indicates the full administration of an approved COVID-19 vaccine;
• Printed record from a vaccine provider;
• Digital record of vaccination from one of the following apps: Clear App, MyIR Mobile, Excelsior Pass, a stored electronic record in your mobile phone wallet

A matching photo ID will also be required for guests ages 18 years and older. Photo ID must be an official document bearing the name of the individual and a photograph. Acceptable forms of identification include but are not limited to: driver's license, non-driver government ID card, passport, and school ID card.

For guests with a medical or religious exemption, entry will be permitted with proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours of their visit. Acceptable negative COVID-19 test results must include name, date, type of test and clear indication of a negative result for COVID-19; and come from lab-run polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or rapid antigen test. (At-home test results will not be accepted).

"With COVID-19 cases breaking records in Maryland, our commitment to the health and safety of guests, staff, volunteers and animals remains our highest priority," said John Racanelli, CEO of the National Aquarium. "Since the pandemic began, we have grounded our policies and practices in the best available science. This led us to require our own staff and volunteers to be fully vaccinated, and it now compels us to extend that commitment to all who visit. The science is clear: this is singularly the best way to protect public health and reduce transmission of the virus."

These policies are subject to change as the Aquarium continues to evaluate its operations in order to minimize the spread of COVID-19. Please review our COVID-19 safety page for the latest information regarding our safety policies.