AquariumNew Mexico, US

Albuquerque Aquarium

Discover a vibrant underwater world in the heart of New Mexico's desert.

About

Discover a vibrant underwater world in the heart of New Mexico's desert. The Albuquerque Aquarium, a jewel of the ABQ BioPark, offers an immersive aquatic journey from the Rio Grande's headwaters to the vast Gulf of Mexico and beyond. It stands as a unique testament to marine life, showcasing diverse ecosystems and engaging visitors with its impressive collections.

Visitors can marvel at the majestic **North American River Otters**, Chaos, Mayhem, and Dixon, as they playfully swim and interact in their expansive exhibit. The captivating "Jellies: Aliens from the Sea" exhibit mesmerizes with delicate **Moon Jellyfish** and **Japanese Sea Nettles**, while the "Pacific Coral Reef" and "Atlantic Coral Reef" teem with a kaleidoscope of colorful species like **Butterflyfish**, **Parrotfish**, and **Triggerfish**. The highlight for many is the massive 285,000-gallon **Shark Tank**, featuring several species including **Sand Tiger Sharks**, **Sandbar Sharks**, **Zebra Sharks**, and **Loggerhead Sea Turtles** gliding gracefully alongside **Southern Stingrays** and **Moray Eels**.

More than just a display of aquatic creatures, the Albuquerque Aquarium provides a crucial educational experience, connecting visitors to the importance of water conservation even hundreds of miles from the nearest ocean. It's an unforgettable destination for all ages, offering a chance to explore stunning marine habitats and foster a deeper appreciation for our planet's aquatic ecosystems and the creatures that call them home. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

The Albuquerque Aquarium officially opened its doors on December 5, 1996, as a key component of the larger Albuquerque Biological Park (now ABQ BioPark). It was designed to take visitors on an aquatic journey, conceptually following a drop of water from the headwaters of the Rio Grande all the way to the Atlantic Ocean, highlighting the interconnectedness of these environments. Over the years, the aquarium has expanded and enhanced its offerings, notably adding a significant exhibit for its beloved North American River Otters, Chaos and Mayhem, in July 2018. The facility consistently engages in conservation efforts, including programs for the Rio Grande silvery minnow and coral propagation.

What to do here

Watch daily dive shows and feeding times at the Shark Tank.

* Seek out the touch pools to feel stingrays or small bamboo sharks (check for availability and schedule).

* Explore the various galleries depicting aquatic life from the Rio Grande, Gulf Coast, and South Pacific.

* Visit the Shark Reef Cafe for a unique dining experience with views into the main Shark Tank.

Seasonal info

Winter: The Aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving Day, December 25, January 1, and also on Mondays between Veteran's Day and President's Day.

Summer: The air-conditioned indoor facility offers a great escape from the New Mexico heat.

Accessibility

The Aquarium is wheelchair accessible with paved paths throughout. An elevator provides access to the river otters' underwater viewing area. Accessible parking is available at the BioPark entrance, and wheelchairs and strollers can be rented.

Don't miss

Shark Tank

A massive 285,000-gallon tank with a 38-foot-wide viewing window, home to several shark species, sea turtles, and large rays. Divers are often in the tank for feeding and cleaning, providing an interactive viewing experience.

River Otters

Observe the playful antics of North American River Otters, Chaos, Mayhem, and Dixon, in their engaging habitat with underwater viewing.

Jellies

Aliens from the Sea: A mesmerizing exhibit showcasing various jellyfish species in beautifully lit tanks.

Pacific and Atlantic Coral Reefs

Immerse yourself in colorful coral ecosystems teeming with a diverse array of reef fish.

Wildlife you might spot

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

North American River Otter

Loggerhead Sea Turtle

Southern Stingray

Seahorse

Clownfish

Moray Eel

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

Arrive Early

Beat the crowds, especially on weekends and holidays, by arriving right when the aquarium opens at 9 AM.

Combo Ticket

Purchase a combo ticket to include admission to the adjacent ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, as it often provides a better value and a full day of activities.

Watch the Dive Show

Check the schedule for daily diver interactions or feeding times in the Shark Tank for an exciting and educational experience.

Visit the Shark Reef Cafe

Enjoy lunch or a snack with a unique view directly into the main Shark Tank.

Utilize Accessibility Features

If needed, take advantage of the paved paths, elevator access to the otter viewing, and available wheelchair/stroller rentals.

Pack Essentials

Bring comfortable walking shoes, as you might explore the Botanic Garden too, and consider bringing your own water and snacks to save money.

Frequently asked questions

: The most popular exhibits at the Albuquerque Aquarium include the large 285,000-gallon Shark Tank, the playful North American River Otters, the mesmerizing "Jellies: Aliens from the Sea" exhibit, and the vibrant Pacific and Atlantic Coral Reefs. Don't miss the Rio Grande at Central Bridge exhibit for a local perspective on aquatic life.
: Yes, the Albuquerque Aquarium is designed to be accessible. It features paved walkways, and an elevator is available to access the underwater viewing area for the river otters. Ample accessible parking is provided, and wheelchairs can be rented on-site.
: The ABQ BioPark Aquarium occasionally offers touch pool experiences where visitors may have the opportunity to gently interact with animals like stingrays and small bamboo sharks. Availability and schedules for these touch pools depend on volunteer staffing, so it's advisable to check the aquarium's website for current details.