Atlantic City Aquarium | Atlantic City

The Atlantic City Aquarium is a notable marine attraction located in the Historic Gardner’s Basin area of Atlantic City, New Jersey, specifically at 800 North New Hampshire Avenue. Situated along the scenic Absecon Inlet waterfront, this aquarium offers visitors a unique blend of educational experiences and interactive marine exhibits, set within a vibrant district known for its maritime heritage, marinas, and family-friendly environment. The location provides a quieter alternative to the bustling Atlantic City Boardwalk, making it an appealing destination for both locals and tourists seeking an engaging and educational outing focused on marine life.

History and Purpose

Established in 1999, the Atlantic City Aquarium was part of the city’s broader efforts to revitalize its waterfront and enhance its cultural and recreational offerings. The aquarium is operated by the Atlantic City Historical Waterfront Foundation, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the region’s maritime history. From its inception, the aquarium’s mission has been to create meaningful connections between visitors and the ocean through immersive exhibits, educational outreach, and conservation awareness. Over the years, the aquarium has served as an important resource for environmental education, particularly about the marine ecosystems of the Mid-Atlantic region.

Renovation and Reopening

The aquarium faced a significant challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced its closure in March 2020. Following this period, the facility underwent extensive renovations and upgrades to modernize the space and improve the visitor experience. These renovations included structural improvements such as new roofing, replacement of windows and flooring, and updates to the HVAC systems to ensure optimal climate control for both the marine life and guests. The interior was refreshed with new exhibit designs and interactive features, enhancing the aquarium’s educational and entertainment value. After several delays largely due to supply chain disruptions, the Atlantic City Aquarium triumphantly reopened on March 24, 2025, marking a renewed commitment to environmental education and public engagement.

Exhibits and Marine Life

The aquarium houses a variety of exhibits that showcase the diverse marine species native to the Mid-Atlantic coastal waters. Its flagship tank, holding 23,000 gallons of water, features a dynamic collection of fish commonly found along the New Jersey coast, including sea bass, sand tiger sharks, and northern stingrays. This exhibit allows visitors to observe these species in an environment closely mimicking their natural habitat.

Another key exhibit is the Tropical Reef, which highlights colorful coral ecosystems and tropical fish such as lionfish and unicorn tangs, bringing a touch of vibrant ocean biodiversity to the aquarium’s collection. The Off the Docks exhibit focuses on the creatures typically found near local piers and docks, including moon jellies, lobsters, and blue crabs, giving visitors insight into the rich and varied life forms that thrive in coastal waters.

The Estuary Exhibit highlights species adapted to brackish water environments where freshwater mixes with saltwater, such as diamondback turtles and horseshoe crabs. This exhibit educates visitors on the importance of estuarine habitats for marine and bird life, emphasizing their ecological significance.

Interactive touch tanks provide hands-on experiences where visitors can gently handle marine animals like rays and various invertebrates. These tanks serve as vital educational tools, fostering a personal connection between guests and marine ecosystems and encouraging stewardship of the ocean environment.

Educational Programs and Community Engagement

Beyond its exhibits, the Atlantic City Aquarium offers a range of educational programs designed to increase awareness about marine biology, conservation, and environmental science. These programs cater to school groups, families, and tourists, often including guided tours, workshops, and special events centered on ocean literacy and sustainability. The aquarium’s role extends beyond entertainment, focusing on inspiring visitors to appreciate and protect marine ecosystems.

Visitor Information and Amenities

The aquarium operates year-round, with typical hours from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission fees are structured to accommodate families and individuals, with discounted rates for seniors and children, and free entry for children under the age of four. Free onsite parking adds convenience for visitors arriving by car.

The facility is fully accessible and offers amenities that ensure a comfortable visit for people of all ages. Staff at the aquarium provide knowledgeable assistance, helping visitors learn about marine life and guiding them through the exhibits.

Summary

The Atlantic City Aquarium represents a vital educational and recreational resource for Atlantic City and the surrounding region. Its combination of immersive marine exhibits, interactive learning opportunities, and commitment to conservation education makes it an important destination for families, tourists, and students alike. Following its extensive renovation and reopening in 2025, the aquarium continues to evolve as a center for marine science awareness, helping to connect people with the underwater world and inspire responsible stewardship of the oceans.