AquariumOhio, US

Greater Cleveland Aquarium

The Greater Cleveland Aquarium offers an immersive aquatic journey, inviting visitors to explore diverse underwater worlds within a historic landmark.

Official website Open in Maps

About

The Greater Cleveland Aquarium offers an immersive aquatic journey, inviting visitors to explore diverse underwater worlds within a historic landmark. As Ohio's only independent, freestanding aquarium, it showcases thousands of freshwater and saltwater creatures from local lakes to distant oceans. This captivating venue provides a unique blend of natural wonder and industrial heritage, making it a distinctive destination for all ages.

Spanning seven themed galleries, the aquarium is home to over 2,700 animals representing more than 250 species. Highlights include the Ohio Lakes & Rivers gallery, celebrating native species like shovelnose sturgeon and spotted turtles, and the vibrant Tropical Forest, where poison dart frogs and mata mata turtles reside. The Coastal Boardwalk offers interactive touch pools with cownose and Atlantic stingrays, while the breathtaking 175-foot Shark SeaTube allows guests to walk beneath a 230,000-gallon tank teeming with various shark species, barracuda, and moray eels.

A visit to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium is an engaging and educational experience, perfect for families, marine life enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an escape into the wonders of aquatic environments. Its unique setting within the revitalized FirstEnergy Powerhouse adds a fascinating historical dimension, bridging Cleveland's industrial past with a vibrant present dedicated to conservation and discovery. It's an ideal indoor activity for any day, offering memorable encounters and insights into the crucial role water plays in sustaining life on Earth. Be ready to snap and learn! Get the Snappit app to identify any nature species you find here.

buffs interested in adaptive reuse of historic buildings

What to do here

Beyond the exhibits, look for informative placards, staff interactions, and consider the gift shop for souvenirs.

Seasonal info

Being an indoor venue, seasonal weather has minimal impact on the visitor experience. Outdoor picnic tables are available for use in spring and summer. The aquarium is open on most major holidays.

Accessibility

The Greater Cleveland Aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible, featuring two elevators and a generally flat floor plan. Strollers are permitted throughout the facility. A limited number of wheelchairs are available for loan by calling in advance. For guests with sensory sensitivities, KultureCity sensory bags, weighted lap-pads, and strobe glasses are available, and the aquarium occasionally offers special "Sensory Hours." Service dogs trained for individuals with disabilities are welcome.

Don't miss

Shark Gallery & SeaTube

Walk through the 175-foot acrylic tunnel for an immersive experience with sand tiger, nurse, and sandbar sharks, barracuda, and other large marine life swimming overhead and around you.

Coastal Boardwalk

Engage with cownose and Atlantic stingrays in the interactive touch pool, and discover fascinating invertebrates like cleaner shrimp.

Ohio Lakes & Rivers

Explore the aquatic biodiversity native to Ohio, featuring species such as shovelnose sturgeon and spotted turtles.

Tropical Forest

Encounter colorful poison dart frogs, exotic birds, and unique reptiles like the black and white tegu lizard.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Nurse Shark

Cow

Southern Stingray

Spotted Turtle

Green Tree Python

Grouper

Shrimp

Snap map for this place

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

Loading map…

Good to know before you go

Purchase Timed Tickets Online

To guarantee your entry and chosen time slot, it's highly recommended to buy your tickets in advance through the aquarium's website.

Plan for Parking

A large, credit card-only parking lot is available directly in front of the Powerhouse building. Annual Passholders can get their parking validated for free. Limited street parking is also available.

Check Daily Schedules

Inquire about daily public feedings for sharks and stingrays upon arrival, as these can be a highlight of your visit.

Consider Sensory Needs

If visiting with someone sensitive to stimulation, be aware that the 175-foot SeaTube, while amazing, can be overwhelming for some. Look into the availability of sensory bags or special Sensory Hours.

Pack Snacks or Plan for Nearby Dining

There is no full-service cafe on-site, though snacks are available in the gift shop. The ticket counter can provide a list of nearby restaurants, and outdoor picnic tables are available in warmer months.

Allow for Flexibility

While a typical visit is 45-90 minutes, give yourself extra time, especially if you have children or want to thoroughly explore all seven galleries.

Frequently asked questions

: While you can stay as long as you wish once inside, an average visit to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium typically lasts between 45 and 90 minutes, providing ample time to explore all seven themed galleries and enjoy the exhibits.
: Yes, the Greater Cleveland Aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible, featuring two elevators and a flat floor plan for easy navigation. They also offer a limited number of wheelchairs for loan, which can be reserved by calling ahead on the day of your visit. Additionally, they provide sensory bags and weighted lap-pads for guests with sensory needs.
: The Greater Cleveland Aquarium houses over 2,700 animals from 250 species, including a diverse collection of freshwater and saltwater creatures. You can encounter various shark species, stingrays, a Giant Pacific Octopus, weedy seadragons, poison dart frogs, moray eels, and many colorful fish from both local Ohio waters and exotic locations worldwide.