4 U.S. Aquariums You Won’t Want To Miss

Animals jumping, swimming and playing in the water-- there is no better entertainment for a family with energetic and curious kids than an aquarium. Here in the U.S. we are lucky to have some world-class aquariums, but don’t let the big ones distract you. Although the larger and more well-known aquariums are impressive, smaller aquariums can be just as fun, if not more so since you can actually see everything in a day, and not rush around trying to cram it all in.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Get a look of the giant pacific Octopus, a complex creature with one of the most sophisticated camouflage systems in the animal kingdom, and an animal that likes to call this California aquarium home. Take a look beneath the surface of Monterey Bay where sharks and sturgeon glide past 200-pound sea bass. Printables are available on the aquarium’s website to prepare your kids for their aquatic adventure or fill out during your visit. Mom and dad keep an eye out for sea lemons, acorn barnacles and other underwater oddities that will make your kids giggle and open up a new conversation about what else can live beneath the sea.

John G. Shedd Aquarium

Chicago’s aquarium is no joke. It is big and is meant to impress. After a major renovation in the last decade, this aquarium is set up to wow families even more. Watch the dolphin show, peek at the stingrays and say hello to a few beluga whales. Don’t miss the adorable penguins and the tiny monkeys that call Chicago their home these days, or a look at what lurks beneath Lake Michigan. There are 32,000 animals to gaze at, which may take more than a day, but you can certainly hit the highlights.

Virginia Aquarium

Anyone who has been to Virginia Beach has been to the Virginia Aquarium. This out of the way spot is home to many native creatures, as well as a few special guests, including the snakehead fish from Malaysia and even Komodo dragons. The best part is the submarine your kids can walk into next to the shark tank. They can flip buttons and control underwater cameras to track sharks and fish as they swim past. The aquarium is also active in conservation efforts in the area and helps when animals are found stranded on the beach. Bring your kids to learn about how they can protect these marvelous sea creatures, avoid sea turtle nests and make sure our ocean’s animals will be there for future generations.

Adventure Aquarium

Just across the river from Philadelphia you can watch hippos walk through water and sharks swim overhead in Camden, NJ. This easy day trip from Philly is perfect for families with young kids who may have naps to take or pools to jump in during those hot summer days. Daily shows include penguin and sting ray feedings. There are multiple touch pools that get your children up close with the animals, but please remind them to always be gentle. 

Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.