Captivating a child’s imagination is achieved by providing opportunities to discover and interact with fascinating creatures. So, this summer, why not take the kids to explore the extraordinary marine life at family-friendly aquariums in the United States and Canada? With some of the most exceptional aquatic centers in the world within reach, join us as we embark on a journey to discover the best aquariums in North America.
Of course, it’s beneficial for children and adults to understand the significance of safeguarding our oceans. With this objective in mind, we’re highlighting the best aquariums in North America that feature exceptional interactive displays, educational initiatives, and ecological preservation projects. Whether you prefer to stay dry or are daring enough to engage in activities such as shark cage diving, come along with us as we explore the best aquariums in the U.S. and Canada.
Atlanta, Georgia
If you’re seeking ways to captivate the children, where better to start our tour than at the cutting-edge Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia? As the largest aquarium in the United States, this non-profit foundation strives to stimulate visitors’ appreciation for the oceans’ habitats and the aquatic animals that inhabit them.
As one of the best aquariums in the U.S., it offers an immersive experience for the entire family through its exclusive backstage tours and events. Visitors can opt for an intriguing overnight stay at the Georgia Aquarium, meet its resident dolphins, and swim, snorkel, or dive with the awe-inspiring whale sharks and manta rays. With such an array of interactive attractions, it eases into our list of the best aquariums in North America.
Be sure to stay at the Best Western Plus Atlanta Airport-East if you’re looking for hotels in Atlanta, Georgia.
Boston, Massachusetts
We head to the east coast on our tour of the best aquariums in North America and the state capital of Massachusetts, Boston. The New England Aquarium is renowned for its marine conservation efforts internationally and provides a fascinating, engaging perspective on marine life protection. This includes its ‘Giant Ocean Tank,’ an incredible four-story Caribbean coral reef ecosystem full of exotic native sharks, eels, and tropical fish species.
One of New England Aquarium’s most famous and oldest residents is Myrtle the Turtle. This beloved green sea turtle is believed to be between 90 and 95 years old and is a firm visitor favorite. However, if you and your family want to see some ocean giants, the New England Aquarium offers whale-watching tours between April and November. What a way to spend your vacation spotting minke, finback, and humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Be sure to stay at the Best Western Adams Inn Quincy-Boston if you’re looking for hotels in Boston, Massachusetts.
Shippagan, New Brunswick
Next on our shortlist of the best aquariums in North America, we’re heading north of the border to visit the New Brunswick Aquarium and Marine Centre in Shippagan, New Brunswick, Canada. Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023, the New Brunswick Aquarium and Marine Centre provides a fascinating insight into the extensive marine life and fish species found in the regional waters of the Bay of Fundy, the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and the Atlantic Ocean.
New Brunswick Aquarium and Marine Centre is helping to pioneer necessary research in ecosystem preservation, sustainable fishing practices, and marine conservation on a regional level. To enhance visitor involvement in the conservation efforts, visitors can view marine creatures such as sharks, rays, and seahorses and interact with blue lobsters, starfish, and sea urchins in the touch pools provided.
Be sure to stay locally by booking at the Best Western Plus Bathurst Hotel & Suites in Bathurst, New Brunswick.
Monterey, California
Next on our itinerary is a trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium located on the west coast of California. This impressive aquarium takes advantage of its ideal location and the diverse Pacific Ocean habitats to conduct research and conservation efforts along the California coast. In addition, it is renowned for providing daily showcases of the local marine life, such as dolphins, otters, and sea lions, making it one of the best aquariums in North America.
Furthermore, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a range of stunning displays for visitors to discover, such as the expansive ‘Kelp Forest,’ ‘Open Sea,’ and ‘Splash Zone’ exhibits featuring sharks, squid, and octopuses in their natural habitat. Boasting a remarkable collection of 35,000 creatures made up of over 550 species, it earns a top spot in our list of the best aquariums in the U.S.
Be sure to stay at the Best Western Park Crest Inn if you’re looking for hotels in Monterey, California.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Our final marine wildlife and marine mammal rescue center sees us heading north of the border again to the world-famous Vancouver Aquarium in British Columbia, Canada. This makes our list of the best aquariums in North America because of its extensive conservation and animal rescue programs and its showcasing of impressive resident 50,000 resident animals.
As one of the world’s top aquariums, it boasts an array of exceptional global exhibits showcasing captivating marine creatures from diverse regions such as the Amazon and the tropics. Additionally, the much-loved Penguin Point is the South African-inspired exhibit, and home to the magnificent resident African Penguins. The Vancouver Aquarium offers daily feeding shows, ensuring a delightful experience for you and your children throughout your visit and a great way to end our tour of the best aquariums in North America to see in 2023.
Be sure to stay at the Georgian Court Hotel, BW Premier Collection, if you’re looking for hotels in Vancouver, British Columbia.