ZooNew York, US

Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center

The Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center offers an immersive journey into marine life and beyond.

About

The Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center offers an immersive journey into marine life and beyond. This engaging indoor-outdoor attraction, nestled on the Peconic River in Riverhead, showcases a diverse array of animals and interactive experiences that captivate visitors of all ages. From the mesmerizing beauty of one of the Western Hemisphere's largest all-living coral reef displays to thrilling shark encounters and playful sea lion shows, the aquarium seamlessly blends education with entertainment, emphasizing marine life and environmental preservation. It has been recognized as a top aquarium for children by Parents Magazine, highlighting its appeal to younger audiences.

Step inside to explore the vibrant 20,000-gallon Coral Reef display, teeming with over 800 varieties of marine life, or venture to the 120,000-gallon Lost City Shark Exhibit, home to sand tiger sharks and other impressive predators where even underwater weddings have been held. Beyond the aquatic, the Butterflies, Bugs & Bees exhibit transports guests to a tropical garden fluttering with hundreds of butterflies from around the world, and the Amazon Rainforest exhibit introduces fascinating creatures like marmosets and piranhas. Don't miss the adorable African penguins at Penguin Pavilion or the charismatic California sea lions performing tricks at the Sea Lion Coliseum.

A visit to the Long Island Aquarium promises not just entertainment, but also a deeper connection to the natural world. With hands-on touch tanks where you can feel stingrays and horseshoe crabs, and engaging animal encounters and educational programs, it’s a place where curiosity is sparked and memories are made. Whether you're seeking family fun, educational enrichment, or an adventurous outing, the aquarium provides a unique and memorable experience on Long Island's East End. Planning to visit? Download the Snappit app to identify the wildlife you spot in real-time.

Construction on the Long Island Aquarium began in 1999, and it officially opened its doors on June 15, 2000, initially known as Atlantis Marine World. The Town of Riverhead had acquired the land in 1995 with the vision of a rehabilitation project for the Peconic waterfront. The original cost of $15 million for the aquarium was provided by developers James J. Bissett and Joseph M. Petrocelli. On July 1, 2011, the facility underwent a significant $24 million expansion, which included a new Exhibition Center and the 28,000-square-foot Sea Star Grand Ballroom, leading to its renaming as the Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center. The aquarium also provides space for the Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation, which focuses on marine animal rescue and care. It has since earned accreditation from the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA), signifying its high standards in animal care, welfare, and conservation.

What to do here

Catch a sea lion show, participate in a penguin or shark encounter, feed stingrays, explore the butterfly garden, visit the touch tanks, and consider the seasonal Atlantis Explorer Tour Boat for a river cruise with estuary science activities.

Seasonal info

The Interactive Salt Marsh is open seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The tropical Butterfly Garden provides a warm indoor escape during colder months. Special events and brunches are often held during holidays like Easter and Mother's Day.

Accessibility

The entire aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible, with spacious galleries, elevators to the upper level, ramps to areas like the Sea Lion Coliseum (which has dedicated wheelchair seating), and multi-stall, handicapped accessible restrooms with baby-changing stations. Strollers are also welcome.

Don't miss

Lost City Shark Exhibit

A 120,000-gallon tank featuring sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, and other marine predators. Guests aged 12 and up can even participate in a Shark Dive experience.

Coral Reef Display

One of the largest all-living coral displays in the Western Hemisphere, boasting 800 varieties of marine life in a 20,000-gallon tank.

Sea Lion Coliseum

Enjoy daily shows featuring the talented California sea lions, like Java, who perform impressive tricks.

Penguin Pavilion

Observe adorable African penguins waddling, swimming, and playing. Penguin encounters are also available for an up-close experience.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Atlantic White Cedar

Duck

Sweet Pepperbush

Mountain Laurel

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

Check the Daily Schedule

Review the daily events schedule online before your visit to plan around animal feedings, shows, and special presentations, ensuring you don't miss your favorites.

Arrive Strategically

To avoid the largest crowds, aim for a weekday visit after 1:00 PM during the school year. Mornings, especially on weekends or during bad weather, can be very busy.

Book Encounters in Advance

If you're interested in special experiences like the Shark Dive, Penguin Encounters, or Sea Lion selfies, book them ahead of time as availability is often limited and they can fill up quickly.

Dress in Layers and Comfortable Shoes

With both indoor (climate-controlled) and outdoor exhibits, dressing in layers is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the entire facility.

Bring Quarters for Feedings

Kids often enjoy feeding the koi, turtles, and rays, which typically costs a few dollars per snack from coin-operated machines.

Utilize Library Discounts

Before purchasing tickets, check with your local library for potential discount tickets or museum passes, which can offer significant savings.

Frequently asked questions

: There is no dedicated parking lot directly adjacent to the Long Island Aquarium. However, visitors can find free 3-hour municipal parking in lots across Main Street or about a block away from the entrance, with signs directing visitors to these areas. Handicapped parking spaces are available in the municipal lot across the street.
: Yes, the Long Island Aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible. It features wide aisles, elevators, ramps (including to the Sea Lion Coliseum), and accessible restrooms. Wheelchairs and strollers can navigate the venue with ease.
: The Long Island Aquarium offers free admission on your birthday, with some sources indicating a window around your actual birth date. Additionally, many local libraries offer discounted tickets or museum passes, so it's advisable to check with your local library before visiting.