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9 AM – 6 PM
1 Central Wharf, Boston, Boston
2-3 hours approx.
Price from: $37.05

Discover New England Aquarium in Boston – Book Tickets Today

This website offers official tickets for this venue. Please note, however, that it is not the official website of the venue.

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Approx 3h
4.6
(38)

New England Aquarium: Entry Ticket

Highlights

Explore a wide array of marine life in themed exhibits.

See the popular giant ocean tank holding 200,000 gallons of water.

Enjoy interactive experiences like touching stingrays.

Learn about aquatic conservation from a nonprofit dedicated to marine research.

Access guide maps available in several major languages.

Approx 8h
4.7
(9)

Boston CityPASS

Highlights

Explore several of Boston’s primary tourist spots at a reduced price.

Choose from multiple iconic venues to tailor your experience.

Enjoy convenient mobile tickets redeemable via smartphone.

Benefit from a flexible 9-day validity period starting from your first visit.

Experience diverse exhibitions ranging from natural history to aquatic wonders.

Discover the New England Aquarium in Boston, a premier destination dedicated to marine conservation and education. Explore captivating exhibits like the Giant Ocean Tank and penguin colony while learning about vital ocean research initiatives. Don’t miss the chance to connect with marine life and support ocean protection efforts firsthand.

About New England Aquarium

Located along Boston’s scenic Central Wharf, the New England Aquarium serves as a leading institution dedicated to ocean conservation, research, and education. Established as a nonprofit organization, the aquarium highlights the vital connection between healthy oceans and a sustainable planet through its diverse exhibits, live animal encounters, and groundbreaking marine science efforts. The aquarium offers visitors the chance to explore fascinating environments, from tropical coral reefs to local marine ecosystems, while promoting active engagement in ocean protection.

The venue combines educational presentations, immersive experiences like the Giant Ocean Tank, and conservation initiatives, including the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life’s research, making it a key destination for both tourism and environmental advocacy.

Key Information about New England Aquarium:

- Address: 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
- Number of Annual Visitors: Over 1 million
- Founded: 1969

Why Visit New England Aquarium, Boston?

Giant Ocean Tank

  • The Giant Ocean Tank is a stunning central exhibit housing a vast Caribbean coral reef ecosystem. Visitors can observe an impressive variety of marine life, including sea turtles, stingrays, and colorful fish, swimming through a towering 40-foot coral reef environment. This immersive tank provides an extraordinary view into underwater life and highlights the importance of coral reef conservation.

Penguin Colony

  • The Penguin Colony is home to around 50 African and southern rockhopper penguins in a habitat built around the base of the Giant Ocean Tank. Guests can watch these birds swim, interact, and waddle around during twice-daily feedings, offering a close look at their behavior and social dynamics. The Aquarium also takes part in international efforts to protect African penguins, a species now listed as critically endangered in the wild.

Shark & Ray Touch Tank

  • This interactive exhibit allows visitors to safely touch and learn about various species of sharks and rays in a coastal tide pool setting. It offers a hands-on educational experience, promoting understanding of these often-misunderstood creatures and their vital role in marine ecosystems.

Marine Mammal Center

  • Home to Atlantic harbor seals and California sea lions, the Marine Mammal Center provides an up-close view of these fascinating animals. The center actively participates in rescue, rehabilitation, and research efforts, making it a place where visitors gain insight into marine mammal care and conservation.

Indo-Pacific Coral Reef

  • The Indo-Pacific Coral Reef exhibit showcases vibrant and diverse coral species alongside tropical fish that inhabit this region. This exhibit highlights the fragility of coral ecosystems and the aquarium’s ongoing role in coral research and preservation projects around the globe.

Latest user reviews

Oct 2026

Jennifer N.

This innovative and highly interactive experience is some much fun for the whole family! We especially enjoyed the huge center tank with the wrap around walk up. Listening to the penguins was fun, hearing them honk to each other!

Oct 2026

Dorothy R.

L instructors were so interesting and knowledgeable. The penguin educator engaged the children so well the large turtle educator was very interesting and extremely enthusiastic. It was a pleasure to be there.

Aug 2026

Kathleen H.

We had a wonderful time! Took three of our grandchildren (4-14) and they really enjoyed it. Lots to see!

May 2026

Laura C.

A great see

May 2026

Mark L.

Knowledgeable Staff willing to answer questions.

Apr 2025

Fatima A.

feel like I learned a ton about marine life here!

Apr 2025

Jesse L.

The pass made it easy to visit all the best spots, loved it!!

Apr 2025

Lara S.

Museum of Science was amaze! So much to see and learn

Apr 2025

Emily J.

Boston CityPASS® saved us so much, def recommend!!

Apr 2025

Anaya P.

Super fun experience with family!! Kids loved it

New England Aquarium: Opening Hours

The New England Aquarium welcomes visitors daily with a consistent schedule designed to provide ample opportunity to explore its diverse exhibits and engaging programs.

  • Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

The Aquarium is open nearly every day of the year, though hours can shift slightly by season and it closes on Christmas Day. Daily animal feedings and presentations follow a set schedule to enhance the visitor experience, so it's worth checking the current calendar before you go.

Address & How Do I Get There?

New England Aquarium Boston: Location

Address: 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110

Nearby Landmarks:

- The historic Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
- The Boston Harborwalk
- The Institute of Contemporary Art, a scenic walk along the waterfront
- Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Things to Know Before Visiting the New England Aquarium

The aquarium is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., including weekends.

Timed entry tickets are recommended to manage crowd levels and ensure entry. Peak visiting hours typically occur mid-morning and early afternoon on weekends.

Food and beverages are available on-site, with designated dining areas. Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium.

Photography is allowed, but flash and tripods are prohibited in exhibit spaces.

Strollers are permitted, though some areas may have limited space.

Group visits and guided tours require advance booking to accommodate schedules.

Plan for approximately two to three hours to fully explore the exhibits and presentations.

Visitors are encouraged to participate in conservation efforts through membership or volunteering opportunities.

New England Aquarium, Boston - Additional Information

Facilities at New England Aquarium

- The Harbor View Café serves sandwiches, pizza, salads, and snacks from opening until about an hour before closing, with seasonal outdoor dining also available at Central Wharf Plaza.

- The Aquarium provides accessible restrooms and seating areas throughout the venue for all guests, including those with mobility needs.

- The Simons Theatre screens ocean-related films and presentations, providing an educational complement to the exhibits.

Accessibility Facilities at New England Aquarium

For Visually Impaired Visitors:

The New England Aquarium is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors, including those who are visually impaired. Tactile exhibits and descriptive signage help enhance understanding of the marine life on display. Additionally, staff members are available on-site to offer guided assistance upon request, helping visually impaired guests fully enjoy the exhibits.

For Specially Abled Visitors:

For guests who have mobility challenges, the Aquarium offers wheelchair accessibility throughout the facility, including ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. A limited number of wheelchairs can be borrowed on-site at no charge. Accessible parking is available at nearby garages, and service animals are welcomed within the Aquarium.

For Hearing Impaired Visitors:

Visitors with hearing impairments will find the Simons Theatre equipped with captioning for its presentations, along with visual aids at many exhibits to support comprehension.

Which Ticket Should I Buy To Visit New England Aquarium, Boston?

  • Recommended Ticket: New England Aquarium: Entry Ticket Perfect if your main goal is to dive deep into the world of marine life. Get direct access to the Aquarium’s fascinating exhibits, including the Giant Ocean Tank, and enjoy hands-on learning at the touch pools. It’s the ideal choice for families, solo explorers, or anyone who wants a focused visit to this top Boston attraction.
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  • Recommended Ticket: Boston CityPASS® Planning to explore beyond the Aquarium? The Boston CityPASS® offers great value if you want to visit multiple attractions during your stay. Bundle the Aquarium with other must-see spots in the city, all while saving on individual ticket prices. With a 9-day window to use the pass, you can pace your trip however you like.
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Interesting Facts about New England Aquarium, Boston

The New England Aquarium is home to Myrtle, a famous green sea turtle.

It features the Giant Ocean Tank, a massive saltwater habitat with a 40-foot coral reef centerpiece.

The aquarium operates the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, focusing on ocean and marine animal research.

The aquarium actively participates in shark tagging near Nantucket to study and protect sharks.

A collaboration with the SAFE Coral program helps conserve fragile coral reefs around the world.

The Marine Mammal Center is home to Atlantic harbor seals and California sea lions, and the Aquarium's rescue team responds to stranded marine mammals across New England.

The aquarium showcases thousands of animals across exhibits including the Amazon Rainforest and Indo-Pacific Coral Reef.

The New England Aquarium is a nonprofit dedicated to ocean conservation, education, and research.

New England Aquarium, Boston - Highlights in Pictures

Frequently Asked Questions About The New England Aquarium, Boston

What are the New England Aquarium’s hours of operation?

The aquarium is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Where is the New England Aquarium located?

It is located at 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, near Boston’s waterfront.

What are the must-see exhibits at the New England Aquarium?

Highlights include the Giant Ocean Tank, Penguin Colony, Indo-Pacific Coral Reef, and Marine Mammal Center.

Are guided tours available at the New England Aquarium?

Yes, guided tours and group visits can be arranged by prior appointment.

Are there any theaters or special event spaces at the New England Aquarium?

Yes, the Simons Theatre hosts movies and presentations related to ocean life.

Is there dining available on-site at the New England Aquarium?

Yes, there are dining options and a gift shop for visitors.

Can I participate in animal encounters at New England Aquarium?

Yes, special animal encounters are offered to enhance visitor engagement.

Are restrooms and seating areas available inside the New England Aquarium?

Yes, accessible restrooms and seating areas are available throughout the venue for visitor comfort.

Can I bring my stroller or wheelchair inside the New England Aquarium?

Strollers are allowed, though the Aquarium recommends traveling light since some areas have limited space. Wheelchairs are welcome throughout, and a limited number can be borrowed on-site.

Are pets allowed at the New England Aquarium?

Pets are not permitted inside the aquarium, except for service animals.

How long does a typical visit last at the New England Aquarium?

Visit duration can vary, but most guests spend a few hours exploring the exhibits.

Does the New England Aquarium participate in marine research?

Yes, it houses the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, focused on marine science research.

Are there opportunities to support ocean conservation during the visit to New England Aquarium?

Visitors can engage through volunteering, advocacy, memberships, and events.

Is parking available near the New England Aquarium?

Parking options are available nearby, with details provided online for visitor convenience.

Is re-entry allowed at New England Aquarium?

Yes, you may leave and return the same day. Keep your ticket handy, as you may be asked to show it again on re-entry.

This website sells official tickets for this venue. Please note, however, that it is not the official website of the venue.

The images and videos on this website may contain visual elements that have been created or enhanced using AI technology. They are provided for illustrative purposes only.