AquariumMississippi, US

Mississippi Aquarium

Mississippi Aquarium is a vibrant Gulf Coast destination showcasing diverse aquatic life.

About

Mississippi Aquarium is a vibrant Gulf Coast destination showcasing diverse aquatic life.Nestled in Gulfport, Mississippi, the Mississippi Aquarium offers an awe-inspiring journey through the aquatic ecosystems of the state and beyond. This premier non-profit public aquarium features a sprawling 5.8-acre campus that thoughtfully integrates both indoor and outdoor habitats, housing over 200 species of animals and 50 species of native plants within more than a million gallons of fresh and saltwater. It's a place where visitors can genuinely connect with the planet's precious ecosystems, exploring everything from the roaring waters of the mighty Mississippi River to the warm depths of the Gulf of Mexico.The visitor experience is designed to be profoundly immersive and engaging. Imagine walking through the breathtaking 360-degree acrylic underwater tunnel, where magnificent sharks, graceful stingrays, and serene sea turtles swim all around you. The popular touch pools invite guests to gently interact with species like stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and crustaceans, providing a unique, hands-on learning opportunity. Outside, the multi-level dolphin habitat provides captivating views of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, while playful North American river otters frolic in their spacious environment. You can also observe American alligators and crocodiles, explore an immersive aviary, and discover local fish in the Freshwater River exhibit.More than just an exhibit space, Mississippi Aquarium is dedicated to education, conservation, and community, serving as a hub for research and inspiring passion for the aquatic world. Special offerings, such as Dolphin Encounters, Penguin Encounters, and the innovative SeaTREK diving experience, allow for unforgettable, close-up interactions. Whether you're a family seeking discovery, a couple looking for a unique outing, or an individual passionate about marine life, the Mississippi Aquarium promises an enriching and memorable visit. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.

The Mississippi Aquarium officially opened its doors on August 29, 2020, marking the 15th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. This modern facility was conceived as a replacement for the Marine Life Oceanarium, which had been destroyed by the devastating hurricane.The ambitious project, costing US$93 million, was brought to life through a collaborative effort involving federal, state, local, and private funding. Eley Guild Hardy Architects of Biloxi served as the lead designer for the 5.8-acre complex. From its inception, the aquarium aimed to tell the story of Mississippi's diverse aquatic resources and play an active role in research and conservation efforts.

What to do here

Engage with the touch pools, watch the narrated dolphin training sessions, and take a stroll through the Aviary. Consider booking a special experience like a Dolphin Encounter, Penguin Encounter, or the SeaTREK underwater diving experience for a more intimate interaction. Explore the various fresh and saltwater habitats to learn about the unique aquatic life of the region.

Seasonal info

As the aquarium features both indoor and outdoor components, seasonal weather can impact your visit. Cooler, drier months (fall, winter, spring) are ideal. Summer can be hot, making early morning visits preferable for enjoying outdoor exhibits. Always check the official website for daily schedules and any seasonal events or animal activity.

Accessibility

The Mississippi Aquarium is designed to be highly accessible, with wide hallways and open viewing areas throughout its indoor and outdoor exhibits. Wheelchairs are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis at the ticketing office. KultureCity sensory bags are also available to assist guests with sensory processing needs, and the aquarium strives to provide an inclusive experience for all visitors. Service animals are generally permitted in most guest areas, with the exception of the Aviary.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: Most visitors recommend allocating 2 to 3 hours to explore the aquarium at a relaxed pace, which allows ample time to see all exhibits and attend daily programs like the narrated dolphin training sessions. Some sources suggest a minimum of 1.5 to 2 hours.
Best time to visit: The fall, early winter, and spring are generally considered the best seasons to visit the Mississippi Aquarium, as the mild weather makes enjoying the indoor and outdoor exhibits more comfortable. Weekdays typically see fewer crowds than weekends. Visiting early in the morning can also help avoid larger crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially during the summer. It's advisable to check the weather beforehand, as heavy rain or extreme heat can detract from the experience of the outdoor habitats.
Location: Mississippi, US
Species in this guide: 12

Best for

Families With ChildrenCouples Seeking An Engaging OutingEducation And Conservation EnthusiastsAnimal Encounter Experiences

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Don't miss

The multi-level Atlantic bottlenose dolphin habitat

The immersive 360-degree acrylic underwater tunnel in the Oceans Habitat with sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles

Interactive touch pools

Playful North American river otters

Wildlife you might spot

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

Bottlenose Dolphin

North American River Otter

American Alligator

American Crocodile

Great White Shark

Blue Spotted Stingray

Sea Turtle

Octopus

Seahorse

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

Purchase tickets online in advance

Buying your tickets online prior to your visit is recommended, as it can often save you time at the entrance and may offer better pricing.

Check the daily schedule

Consult the Mississippi Aquarium's website or pick up a map at the entrance for the most up-to-date schedule of animal presentations, feeding times, and narrated dolphin training sessions.

Dress for comfort and weather

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be exploring both indoor and outdoor areas. If visiting during sunny months, bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the sun in outdoor areas.

Consider a weekday visit

Weekends tend to be busier, so if you prefer fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience, aim for a weekday, especially in the morning.

No outside food or drinks

Outside food and beverages are not permitted within the aquarium. The Pelican Pointe Cafe offers a selection of food and drinks on-site.

Parking is available

Paid parking is conveniently located in an adjacent garage, making access straightforward.

Frequently asked questions

: Most visitors typically spend between 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the Mississippi Aquarium. A recommended duration of 2 to 3 hours allows for a leisurely pace, giving you enough time to enjoy all the exhibits, read informative displays, and attend scheduled daily programs like the narrated dolphin training sessions.
: The Mississippi Aquarium is home to over 200 species of animals across its indoor and outdoor habitats. Key attractions include Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, North American river otters, American alligators, American crocodiles, various sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. You can also observe a wide array of freshwater fish like alligator gar and paddlefish, diverse bird species in the aviary, and fascinating creatures such as seahorses and a Giant Pacific Octopus in the Changing Tides exhibit.
: Yes, the Mississippi Aquarium regularly features narrated dolphin training sessions. These sessions, typically held twice daily (for example, at 11 AM and 4:30 PM), offer an excellent opportunity to learn about the Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, observe their behaviors, and see them interact with their trainers. It's always a good idea to check the aquarium's daily schedule upon arrival or on their website for the most current show times.