AquariumUS

Adventure Aquarium

Adventure Aquarium, located on the Camden Waterfront, invites visitors to explore a vibrant underwater world just minutes from downtown Philadelphia.

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About

Adventure Aquarium, located on the Camden Waterfront, invites visitors to explore a vibrant underwater world just minutes from downtown Philadelphia. Regularly named one of America's top aquariums, this celebrated attraction is home to over 15,000 aquatic animals across two million gallons of water, offering unparalleled experiences for all ages. Guests can come face-to-face with a remarkable array of creatures, from the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast to the world's only aquarium-exhibited hippos. It's a place where education, conservation, and entertainment converge, promising an unforgettable journey beneath the waves. The visitor experience at Adventure Aquarium is designed to be immersive and interactive. Thrilling highlights include traversing the 81-foot Shark Bridge, suspended just inches over a tank teeming with sharks, or walking through the 40-foot Shark Tunnel, where sharks glide all around and above you. Beyond the adrenaline, guests can marvel at the playful antics of African penguins in Penguin Park, meet the world's smallest penguins at Little Blue Beach, and engage with gentle creatures at multiple touch pools, including the popular Stingray Beach Club and Touch a Shark exhibits. Interactive areas like Kaleidoscope Cove and daily shows featuring animal feedings and diver interactions further enhance the adventure, making it a dynamic and engaging destination. Whether you're observing the majestic Nile hippos, Button and Genny, in their unique habitat or discovering the diverse marine life of Ocean Realm, Adventure Aquarium offers a blend of wonder and discovery. The aquarium also shines a light on conservation, featuring endangered species like sea turtles and highlighting environmental issues through engaging exhibits. With its unique animal collection, hands-on encounters, and commitment to marine education, Adventure Aquarium provides a memorable and inspiring day out that connects visitors with the beauty and importance of aquatic ecosystems. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.

Adventure Aquarium first opened its doors on February 29, 1992, as the Thomas H. Kean New Jersey State Aquarium, located on the Camden Waterfront. It was originally established to help revitalize the Camden waterfront, inspired by the success of similar marine life centers in other cities. After an initial period, the facility underwent a significant transformation and reopened in its current form as Adventure Aquarium on May 25, 2005, with major additions including Shark Realm, the Shark Tunnel, and the Nile hippo exhibit. Since 2007, the aquarium has been operated by Herschend Family Entertainment, known for its commitment to guest experience and animal care, continuing to expand and enhance its offerings.

What to do here

Enjoy daily shows and animal experiences, including hippo and penguin feedings, meet-and-greets with dive teams, and discussions with on-staff experts.

Seasonal info

The aquarium is open 364 days a year, closing only on Thanksgiving. Special seasonal events like the Mermaids Festival (winter/early spring), Fintastic Pumpkin Glow (fall), and Christmas Underwater (holiday season) offer unique experiences.

Accessibility

Adventure Aquarium is fully accessible for guests using wheelchairs or electric convenience vehicles. Manual wheelchairs and ECVs are available for rent. There are designated accessible parking areas, and personal care attendants for visitors with severe disabilities can receive complimentary admission.

Don't miss

Hippo Haven

Meet Button and Genny, the only Nile hippos exhibited in an aquarium worldwide, and watch them swim gracefully both above and below the water.

Shark Realm & Shark Tunnel

Explore a 550,000-gallon tank featuring the largest collection of sharks in the Northeast, including sand tiger, sandbar, and nurse sharks. Walk through the 40-foot Shark Tunnel for an immersive view.

Shark Bridge

Dare to cross the world's longest V-shaped suspension bridge, just inches above free-swimming sharks.

Penguin Park

Observe endangered African penguins in their outdoor habitat, and don't miss feeding times.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Penguin

Sea Turtle

Southern Stingray

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Book tickets online in advance

This often provides the best pricing and allows you to reserve a specific entry time, which is required.

Visit on a weekday afternoon

Crowds are generally lighter after 1:00 PM when school groups typically depart.

Allow 2-3 hours for your visit

This gives you enough time to explore all the exhibits without feeling rushed.

Check daily schedules for feedings and shows: These are great opportunities to see animals active and learn from staff.

Consider bringing your own snacks/lunch

Outside food is permitted, which can be a cost-saving and convenient option, especially for families.

Download the official Adventure Aquarium app: It provides an interactive map, show schedules, and other useful information to maximize your visit.

Parking

On-site parking is available in the Hippo and Penguin lots directly across from the entrance. Payment kiosks are in the lobby or at lot exits.

Frequently asked questions

: The must-see exhibits at Adventure Aquarium include Hippo Haven, home to the world's only aquarium-resident Nile hippos; the thrilling Shark Realm, featuring the Shark Tunnel and the longest V-shaped Shark Bridge; and the engaging Penguin Park and Little Blue Beach, showcasing African and Little Blue Penguins, respectively. Don't miss the interactive Stingray Beach Club and Touch a Shark exhibits for hands-on encounters.
: Yes, Adventure Aquarium allows guests to bring their own packed lunches, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. There are indoor tables in the café and outdoor seating available for guests to enjoy their own food. However, large, hard coolers and glass bottles are not permitted.
: Adventure Aquarium is fully accessible for guests using wheelchairs or electric convenience vehicles, with ramps and elevators connecting all exhibit areas. Manual wheelchairs and ECVs can be rented at the information desk. Designated accessible parking is available, and personal care attendants (PCAs) accompanying visitors with severe disabilities can receive free admission. The Shark Bridge attraction has a fully-accessible Shark Shack tour option for those unable to cross the bridge.