AquariumNew York, US

New York Aquarium

The New York Aquarium offers an immersive journey into aquatic wonders on the Coney Island boardwalk.

About

The New York Aquarium offers an immersive journey into aquatic wonders on the Coney Island boardwalk.

As the oldest continually operating aquarium in the United States, it provides a unique opportunity to connect with marine life from local waters and distant oceans. Operated by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), the aquarium is a hub for conservation, education, and inspiring appreciation for the aquatic world, housing over 500 species and more than 8,000 specimens across 14 acres.

Visitors can marvel at diverse ecosystems in exhibits like the award-winning Ocean Wonders: Sharks!, featuring numerous species of sharks, rays, and sea turtles swimming above a vibrant coral reef. The Spineless exhibit highlights the fascinating world of invertebrates, including giant Pacific octopuses, moon jellies, and Japanese spider crabs. At Sea Cliffs, you'll encounter charismatic marine mammals such as African penguins, southern sea otters, and harbor seals, often viewable both above and below the water.

A visit to the New York Aquarium is an engaging and educational experience for all ages, combining captivating animal encounters with a strong focus on ocean conservation. From interactive shows at the Aquatheater starring California sea lions to the immersive 4-D Theater, the aquarium provides memorable moments that foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the planet's precious marine environments. Its strategic location on the Coney Island boardwalk also makes it an ideal part of a day out by the ocean. Be ready to snap and learn! Get the Snappit app to identify any nature species you find here.

The New York Aquarium boasts a rich history, first opening its doors on December 10, 1896, at Castle Garden in Battery Park, Manhattan. Initially, it housed around 150 specimens and quickly became a popular attraction, drawing millions of visitors due to its free admission. In 1902, the New York Zoological Society (now the Wildlife Conservation Society) took over its operation, significantly expanding its collections and educational programs. The aquarium relocated to its current 14-acre site on the Coney Island boardwalk in 1957, necessitated by the construction of the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel. Despite a temporary closure and the need to acquire new species, the Coney Island location thrived. In October 2012, Hurricane Sandy caused significant damage and flooding, leading to an extensive recovery period. The aquarium fully reopened from Sandy's damage in July 2022, with the state-of-the-art Ocean Wonders: Sharks! exhibit, which first broke ground in 2014 and opened in 2018, symbolizing its resilience and continued commitment to marine conservation.

What to do here

Beyond the main exhibits, check the daily schedule for Penguin Chats, where you can learn about these flightless birds, and visit the Touch Pool for a hands-on experience with local marine invertebrates. Consider a Wild Encounter for an up-close interaction with specific animals (available March through October).

Seasonal info

Summer can be very busy, leading to limited parking and larger crowds. Check the aquarium's website for seasonal events, such as the annual Ocean Shell-a-bration Weekend around World Oceans Day in June, which includes family-friendly activities, keeper talks, and conservation efforts.

Accessibility

All buildings and exhibits at the New York Aquarium are wheelchair accessible. A limited number of free wheelchairs are available for loan on a first-come, first-served basis. The aquarium also partners with KultureCity to provide an inclusive experience for guests with sensory sensitivities, offering quiet zones and headphone zones. Personal Care Assistant (PCA) accommodations are available, and lactation rooms are provided for nursing mothers.

Don't miss

Ocean Wonders

Sharks!: An immersive journey through a coral reef tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and sea turtles.

Spineless

A fascinating exploration of marine invertebrates, featuring giant Pacific octopuses and moon jellies.

Sea Cliffs

Home to sea otters, harbor seals, and African penguins in a habitat mimicking a rocky coastline.

Aquatheater

Enjoy the Sea Lion Celebration, an engaging show highlighting the natural behaviors of California sea lions.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Sea Otter

Harbor Seal

Sea Lion

Blacktip Reef Shark

Sea Turtle

Octopus

Clownfish

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

** This guarantees your entry and allows you to proceed directly to the entrance.

Consider public transport

Parking is limited and can fill up quickly, especially during summer and peak times. Subway (F or Q trains to West 8th Street-New York Aquarium) or bus (B36) are recommended.

Check the daily schedule

Upon arrival, use the aquarium's website or app to find daily program times for the Aquatheater shows, Penguin Chats, and feeding schedules.

Plan for stroller parking

During peak season, strollers must be parked in designated areas for indoor exhibits and the Aquatheater. Wagons are not permitted.

Explore beyond the aquarium

The aquarium is located right on the Riegelmann Boardwalk in Coney Island, offering access to the beach, Luna Park, and other attractions for a full day out.

Stay hydrated and fed

While food and drinks are available for purchase, you can bring your own water bottles. Coolers and beach equipment are not permitted due to limited space.

Frequently asked questions

: Advance purchase of date-specific tickets online is strongly recommended to guarantee availability, especially during peak times. While it may sometimes be possible to purchase tickets on-site, it is not guaranteed, and you may be turned away if capacity limits are reached.
: Yes, all buildings and exhibits at the New York Aquarium are wheelchair accessible, with no hills or rough terrain within the main exhibits. A limited number of wheelchairs are available for free loan on a first-come, first-served basis at the entrance.
: No, the New York Aquarium has a strict no re-entry policy. All tickets, including timed entry and member reservations, are valid for a single visit only.