10 Best US Aquariums That Are Worth The Trip
Looking for a way to escape reality and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of underwater worlds? Aquariums are the perfect spot to connect with the ocean’s most fascinating creatures without even getting your feet wet. From giant shark tunnels to hands-on touch tanks, the U.S. is home to some incredible aquariums that’ll leave you and your family in awe. Here’s a quick roundup of the top 10 aquariums you absolutely need to check out.
10 Best Aquariums To Visit In The United States
1. Georgia Aquarium – Atlanta, Georgia
This place is massive. The Georgia Aquarium houses more than 11 million gallons of water and is home to everything from beluga whales to elusive manta rays. But the real showstopper? The Ocean Voyager exhibit—a 100-foot-long underwater tunnel where whale sharks glide right over your head. It’s like swimming with the giants, but without the “getting wet” part. If you’re all about up-close encounters, a dolphin training session or a meet-and-greet with a sea otter should definitely be on your list, too.
2. Monterey Bay Aquarium – Monterey, California
Perched right on the Pacific Ocean, this aquarium doesn’t just show you marine life—it makes you feel like you’re in it. From the mesmerizing kelp forest (which is basically a giant underwater jungle) to the innovative Into the Deep gallery featuring glowing jellyfish, Monterey Bay Aquarium is all about inspiring conservation. Don’t skip the sea otter feedings—they’re guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
3. National Aquarium – Baltimore, Maryland
Want to go from the Amazon Rainforest to an Atlantic coral reef in one afternoon? The National Aquarium’s exhibits make it happen. With award-winning displays and must-see creatures like Kimberley snake-necked turtles and blue poison dart frogs, this aquarium keeps things fresh. Bonus points for the jellyfish exhibit, which everyone seems to rave about. And if you’ve got kids, how many other places offer aquarium sleepovers? None that I know of.
4. Tennessee Aquarium – Chattanooga, Tennessee
Here’s one for freshwater lovers. The Tennessee Aquarium separates its exhibits into two journeys—freshwater and ocean—and takes you from Appalachian forests all the way down to tropical coves. Also, can we talk about the River Giants exhibit? Giant Japanese spider crabs and sand tiger sharks share the spotlight. It’s a little bit of everything, and every part of it is spectacular.
5. Shedd Aquarium – Chicago, Illinois
Shedd Aquarium doesn’t just show you aquatic animals—it brings you in. Whether you’re kayaking the Chicago River with their conservation team or doing a beluga whale encounter, Shedd takes interactive to a whole new level. Oh, and don’t miss Polar Play Zone if you’re bringing kids—it’s all about hands-on fun, from touch pools to kid-sized submarines.
6. Adventure Aquarium – Camden, New Jersey
Calling all shark fans! Adventure Aquarium has the largest collection of sharks in the Northeast, and yes, this includes a 40-foot-long Shark Tunnel and an 81-foot Shark Bridge. They’ve also got hippos at Hippo Haven and adorable penguins in Penguin Park. Honestly, if you’ve got kids who love animals (or if you’re a big kid yourself), this aquarium’s got endless entertainment packed into its tanks.
7. Aquarium of the Pacific – Long Beach, California
This one’s got some serious eco-vibes. Explore habitats from the tropical Pacific to the frigid waters of the Northern Pacific, with over 12,000 animals to meet. One of the coolest features is the Lorikeet Forest, where colorful birds might perch on you. Bonus points for the Molina Animal Care Center, where guests can see how aquatic animals are treated and cared for.
8. Alaska SeaLife Center – Seward, Alaska
If you’re all about rugged, unique experiences, the Alaska SeaLife Center should be on your radar. It’s the only public aquarium in Alaska and a rehabilitation center for local wildlife. From puffins to Steller sea lions, the native Alaskan animals here give you a taste of the Arctic without the frostbite. And the Rocky Coast exhibit? Pure magic.
9. OdySea Aquarium – Scottsdale, Arizona
Okay, OdySea is a little extra, but that’s why we love it. Where else can you sit in rotating stadium seats and feel like you’re in a zero-gravity aquarium pod called the Voyager? Plus, the shark exhibit peeks through the restroom mirrors—because why not? It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it’s definitely not your average trip to the aquarium.
10. Mystic Aquarium – Mystic, Connecticut
Belugas. Penguins. Giant Pacific octopuses. Need I say more? Mystic Aquarium is a mix of educational and straight-up magical, with indoor and outdoor exhibits showcasing all kinds of fascinating creatures. You can even paint with the seals if you’re feeling artsy, or try the Dino Seas exhibit to learn about prehistoric marine giants.
Those are our top 10 picks for the best aquariums in the U.S. Whether you’re traveling with the kiddos or just looking to tap into your inner marine biologist, these spots have a little something for everyone. Which one’s making your travel bucket list?
