AquariumNew York, US

Aquarium of Niagara

Discover the captivating underwater world at the Aquarium of Niagara, a non-profit organization dedicated to education and conservation.

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About

Discover the captivating underwater world at the Aquarium of Niagara, a non-profit organization dedicated to education and conservation. Nestled near the majestic Niagara Falls, this unique inland aquarium, founded in 1965, played a pivotal role in developing artificial seawater technology, making diverse aquatic life accessible far from ocean shores. It fosters a deep appreciation for marine and freshwater ecosystems, upholding a commitment to research and wildlife conservation.

The aquarium boasts an impressive array of species and interactive exhibits, inviting visitors to explore a rich tapestry of aquatic environments. Marvel at the playful Humboldt penguins in their dedicated Penguin Coast exhibit, witness the agility of rescued California sea lions and harbor seals during dynamic presentations, and get hands-on at the M&T Bank Shark & Ray Bay touch pool, home to various sharks, stingrays, and marine invertebrates. Don't miss the ethereal Aliens of the Sea jellyfish exhibit or the expansive Great Lakes 360 building, which celebrates the diverse ecosystems of the Great Lakes with native species like lake sturgeon and freshwater turtles.

A visit to the Aquarium of Niagara is an engaging experience for all ages, offering a blend of entertainment and education. Beyond observing fascinating creatures, guests can partake in daily animal feedings, informative talks, and special animal encounters, forging a personal connection with the aquatic world. The aquarium's dedication to animal rescue and rehabilitation, coupled with its focus on inspiring environmental stewardship, makes it a memorable and impactful destination for anyone exploring the Niagara Falls region. Eager to name that creature? Identify any animal you find during your visit using the Snappit app.

The Aquarium of Niagara opened its doors on June 12, 1965, established by a group of chemists and scientists. Its initial purpose was groundbreaking: to serve as a test site for a revolutionary artificial seawater formula, known as "Instant Ocean," which is now used by most inland aquariums worldwide. Over the decades, the aquarium transitioned from a private company to a non-profit organization under the Niagara Aquarium Foundation. Significant investments and expansions have marked its growth, including the establishment of its Humboldt penguin colony in 1978 and recent major exhibit additions such as Penguin Coast (2018), Aliens of the Sea (2019), M&T Bank Shark & Ray Bay (2020), and the Great Lakes 360 building (2024). These developments, along with its accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, underscore its commitment to animal care, conservation, and enhancing the visitor experience.

What to do here

Engage with the daily schedule of animal shows and educational presentations featuring sea lions, seals, and penguins. Explore the interactive touch pools, particularly the M&T Bank Shark & Ray Bay and the Great Lakes 360 lake sturgeon touch pool. Consider booking an optional animal encounter for an up-close experience with seals or penguins.

Seasonal info

The Aquarium of Niagara is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. It closes at 3 pm on the day before Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve, Halloween, and Easter. The busiest hours are typically between 11 am and 3:30 pm.

Accessibility

The aquarium is ADA compliant, offering accessible parking and a designated accessible entrance at the rear of the Main Building, complete with an elevator to the second floor. A limited number of wheelchairs are available for use, and sensory headphones can be requested. The aquarium also hosts "AuSome Aquarium" events twice a year for families impacted by autism spectrum disorder and provides ASL interpretations on scheduled weekends.

Don't miss

Don't miss the dynamic sea lion shows and seal presentations. The Humboldt penguins at Penguin Coast are a major draw, especially during feeding times. The M&T Bank Shark & Ray Bay offers a unique opportunity to touch sharks and stingrays. The Great Lakes 360 building provides an in-depth look at regional aquatic life, including a chance to touch a lake sturgeon.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Ring Billed Gull

Eastern Gray Squirrel

Canada Goose

House Sparrow

Duck

Red Winged Blackbird

Double Crested Cormorant

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

Visit during off-peak hours

** To avoid the busiest times (generally 11 am - 3:30 pm), consider visiting on weekdays or early mornings for a more relaxed experience.

Check the daily schedule

Plan your visit around the animal shows and feeding times (e.g., sea lion shows, penguin feedings) to make the most of your day. These are often included with general admission.

Utilize interactive exhibits

Don't hesitate to engage with the touch pools, like the M&T Bank Shark & Ray Bay and the Great Lakes 360 lake sturgeon touch pool, for a hands-on learning experience.

Consider online ticketing

While walk-up tickets are available, purchasing tickets online can secure your entry, especially during busy periods, and may be for specific time slots.

Parking Information

Parking is available on-site for a flat daily fee. Accessible parking spaces are located in the first row of the main parking lot.

Be prepared for no storage

The aquarium does not offer coat, bag, or stroller storage, so plan accordingly.

Frequently asked questions

: The Aquarium of Niagara features several popular attractions, including the Penguin Coast, home to Humboldt penguins; dynamic presentations by rescued California sea lions and harbor seals; the M&T Bank Shark & Ray Bay, an interactive touch pool with sharks and stingrays; the mesmerizing Aliens of the Sea jellyfish exhibit; and the Great Lakes 360 building, showcasing the diverse aquatic life of the Great Lakes.
: Yes, the Aquarium of Niagara offers unique animal encounters for an additional fee. Visitors can book behind-the-scenes experiences with Humboldt penguins or step into the seal exhibit for an up-close interaction. These experiences allow for memorable photos and deeper engagement with the animals and their keepers. Advance reservations are typically required.
: Yes, the Aquarium of Niagara is committed to accessibility. It is ADA compliant, featuring accessible parking, a dedicated accessible entrance at the rear of the Main Building with elevator access to the second floor, and a limited number of wheelchairs available for loan. Sensory headphones are also offered, and special events like "AuSome Aquarium" and ASL-interpreted presentations cater to specific needs.