ZooUS

Woods Hole Science Aquarium

The Woods Hole Science Aquarium is America's oldest public marine aquarium, offering an intimate glimpse into local underwater worlds.

Official website Open in Maps

About

The Woods Hole Science Aquarium is America's oldest public marine aquarium, offering an intimate glimpse into local underwater worlds. Operated by NOAA Fisheries, this charming and free attraction invites visitors to explore the diverse marine life found in the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic waters of the United States. Delve into engaging exhibits showcasing approximately 140 species of fish and invertebrates, providing both educational insights and captivating close-up views.The aquarium provides a hands-on experience that appeals to all ages, particularly through its popular touch tanks. Here, you can gently interact with creatures like lobsters, horseshoe crabs, sea stars, spider crabs, and hermit crabs, fostering a direct connection with the ocean's inhabitants. Beyond the indoor tanks, an outdoor habitat is home to non-releasable harbor seals, offering a chance to observe these playful mammals up close, especially during their public feeding times. The facility also often provides a unique "behind-the-scenes" perspective, where visitors can watch staff care for the animals and maintain the life support systems, highlighting the aquarium's commitment to research and conservation.A visit to the Woods Hole Science Aquarium is more than just an exhibition; it's an educational journey into marine science and local ecology. Dry exhibits feature intriguing collections of marine animal bones, skulls, and teeth, alongside displays explaining marine environments, endangered species, and critical conservation efforts, including the aquarium's sea turtle rehabilitation program. Its focus on regional species and a dedication to education make it a rewarding destination for anyone curious about the ocean and its inhabitants. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.

The Woods Hole Science Aquarium holds the distinction of being the oldest public aquarium in the United States, with its origins tracing back to 1875. It was established by Spencer Fullerton Baird, the U.S. Commissioner of Fish and Fisheries, who initially invited the public to his laboratory in Woods Hole to observe marine animals and learn about marine science. In 1885, the U.S. government constructed the first marine research building in Woods Hole, dedicating the first floor to a public aquarium that showcased local fish, invertebrates, and birds.The original facility was severely damaged by Hurricane Carol in 1954 and subsequently torn down in 1958. The aquarium proudly reopened in its current location in 1961, continuing its legacy of public outreach, education, and marine research. Today, the Woods Hole Science Aquarium is owned by the U.S. government and operated by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) in partnership with the Marine Biological Laboratory, maintaining its mission of supporting fisheries research, educating the public, and engaging in vital conservation efforts, such as rehabilitating cold-stunned sea turtles and providing permanent homes for non-releasable seals.

What to do here

Observe the harbor seals, interact with sea creatures in the touch tanks, see staff care for animals through behind-the-scenes views, and learn about marine ecosystems and research through informative displays.

Seasonal info

The aquarium is open year-round, Tuesday through Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, though it is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and all federal holidays. Hours may be more limited during quieter winter months, so it's always advisable to check the official website. Coastal breezes can make it cool even in summer, so a light jacket is recommended.

Accessibility

The first floor and the outdoor seal enclosure are wheelchair accessible. While some upper exhibits require stairs, assistance to the second floor is available via a rear ramp. Strollers are not permitted inside due to narrow spaces.

Don't miss

Outdoor Harbor Seal enclosure, where you can watch the resident seals.

Touch Tanks on the upper level for interactive engagement with local invertebrates.

Special residents like the rare Bilateral Split-Colored Lobster and Stumpy the Diamondback Terrapin.

Various indoor aquariums showcasing local fish and invertebrate species.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Harbor Seal

Horseshoe Crab

Sea Star

Diamondback Terrapin

Butterflyfish

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

Arrive early for a quieter experience

Plan to visit right at 11:00 AM, especially on weekdays, to enjoy the exhibits with fewer crowds and more opportunities for interaction.

Catch the seal feedings

Schedule your visit to align with the daily harbor seal feeding and Q&A sessions at 11:00 AM and 3:30 PM for a dynamic and engaging experience.

Consider public transport or alternative parking: Parking in Woods Hole can be limited, especially during peak seasons. Consider taking the WHOOSH trolley from Falmouth Mall to ease parking concerns.

Dress comfortably and bring layers

Wear comfortable walking shoes. Even in warmer months, coastal breezes can be cool, so a light jacket is advisable.

Prepare for kids with activity sheets

Print out activity sheets from the aquarium's website beforehand to keep younger visitors engaged throughout their visit.

Leave strollers, food, and drink at home: For the comfort and safety of all visitors and the animals, strollers, outside food, and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium.

Frequently asked questions

: Yes, admission to the Woods Hole Science Aquarium is completely free for all visitors, though donations are gratefully accepted to support its operations and conservation efforts.
: You can see approximately 140 species of marine animals native to the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic U.S. waters. Highlights include resident harbor seals, various fish like Ocean Pout and Sea Robins, invertebrates such as lobsters (including the unique Bilateral Split-Colored Lobster, Twix), horseshoe crabs, sea stars, spider crabs, hermit crabs, and quahogs, as well as the Diamondback Terrapin, Stumpy.
: Most visitors find that 45 minutes to 2 hours is sufficient to explore all the exhibits and enjoy the interactive experiences, including the touch tanks and seal feedings.