The East Coast offers some of North America's most impressive aquariums, where families can discover everything from graceful whale sharks to playful penguins. These destinations combine world-class marine exhibits with hands-on learning opportunities that captivate visitors of all ages. Whether you're watching beluga whales glide overhead or touching a stingray for the first time, East Coast aquariums deliver memorable experiences that spark curiosity about ocean life for old and young alike.
Georgia Aquarium (Atlanta, GA) – Whale Sharks and Manta Rays
Home to more than 10 million gallons of water and thousands of marine animals, the Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world. The star attractions are the magnificent whale sharks and graceful manta rays that glide through the massive Ocean Voyager exhibit. Walking through the acrylic tunnel while these gentle giants swim overhead creates a surreal, almost dreamlike experience that children will remember for years.
Beyond its impressive size, Georgia Aquarium excels in conservation and education. The facility participates in breeding programs for endangered species and researches everything from cold-water corals to sea otter behavior. Families can enhance their visit with behind-the-scenes tours that reveal how aquarists care for thousands of animals daily, from preparing specialized diets to monitoring animal health.
The beluga whale habitat offers another highlight, where you can observe these intelligent, social creatures as they interact with their pod members. The interactive touch pools throughout the facility allow children to gently touch stingrays and feel the unique textures of horseshoe crabs and sea stars.
Atlanta CityPASS® tickets include admission to the Georgia Aquarium, along with other top attractions like the World of Coca-Cola and Zoo Atlanta, making it easy to experience the best of what the city offers while staying within your family vacation budget.
New England Aquarium (Boston, MA) – Penguins and Coastal Learning
The New England Aquarium brings the wonders of marine life to Boston's historic waterfront. As the centerpiece, the Giant Ocean Tank spirals four stories high, housing a Caribbean coral reef teeming with sea turtles, barracudas, and hundreds of tropical fish. Watching divers feed the animals while explaining their behaviors adds an educational element that enhances the visual spectacle.
The penguin colony steals hearts with its playful residents waddling across rocky shores and diving into the water. These African penguins live in a carefully recreated habitat that mimics their natural environment, and visitors can observe feeding times when aquarists share fascinating details about penguin biology and conservation challenges.
Touch tanks scattered throughout the facility encourage hands-on learning. Children can carefully handle sea stars, hermit crabs, and other tide pool creatures while staff members explain each animal's role in coastal ecosystems. The aquarium's location on Boston Harbor makes it easily accessible for families exploring the city's Freedom Trail or enjoying harbor cruises.
Boston CityPASS® tickets provide admission to the New England Aquarium plus your choice of other iconic attractions, including the Museum of Science and Franklin Park Zoo, helping families maximize their Boston adventure without breaking the bank.
Adventure Aquarium (Camden, NJ) – Shark Bridge and Hippo Haven
Just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, Adventure Aquarium delivers thrills alongside marine education. The Shark Bridge — a V-shaped rope suspension bridge over the shark tank — lets brave visitors walk above sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, and sandbar sharks swimming below. The safe but exhilarating experience gets hearts racing while fostering respect for these often-misunderstood predators.
Shark Realm, one of the largest shark exhibits in the United States, houses more than a dozen different shark species. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide panoramic views of these powerful swimmers, while interactive displays explain shark biology, debunk common myths, and highlight conservation efforts.
Beyond sharks, Adventure Aquarium surprises visitors with Hippo Haven, where Nile hippos Button and Genny make their home. Underwater viewing windows reveal how these massive animals move with unexpected grace beneath the surface. The Little Blue Penguin colony rounds out the experience with the world's smallest penguin species charming visitors with their pint-sized antics.
The aquarium's interactive approach makes it particularly well-suited for families with young children. Multiple touch experiences, splash zones, and animal encounters keep kids engaged throughout the visit. Philadelphia CityPASS® tickets include Adventure Aquarium, along with attractions like the Franklin Institute and the Philadelphia Zoo, creating a comprehensive Philadelphia experience at significant savings.
Tips for Visiting Aquariums with Kids
Planning ahead ensures a smooth, enjoyable aquarium visit. Weekday mornings typically offer the smallest crowds, allowing you to view exhibits without jostling for position. Many aquariums post daily feeding schedules online. Timing your visit to catch these presentations adds excitement and educational value.
Most families spend three to four hours exploring a major aquarium, though you can easily extend that with special encounters or behind-the-scenes tours. Build in breaks by locating rest areas and cafés before you need them. Many aquariums feature quiet zones or outdoor spaces where overstimulated children can decompress.
Dress in layers since aquarium temperatures vary between air-conditioned galleries and humid tropical exhibits. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you'll likely cover several miles navigating multiple floors and galleries. Strollers are generally permitted, though baby carriers often provide more flexibility in crowded areas.
Check each aquarium's website for special programs happening during your visit. Many offer seasonal activities, temporary exhibits, or themed weekends that can enhance your experience. Some facilities allow you to pre-purchase timed-entry tickets, which helps avoid long entrance lines during peak seasons.
Save on East Coast Aquarium Visits With CityPASS® Tickets
Exploring the best aquariums on the East Coast becomes more affordable and convenient with CityPASS® tickets. These prepaid admission packages include entry to multiple top-rated attractions in cities like Atlanta, Boston, and Philadelphia, saving you up to 50% compared to buying individual tickets.
CityPASS® tickets remain valid for nine consecutive days after first use, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. The simple mobile tickets eliminate the hassle of managing multiple confirmations or printed vouchers — everything you need stays organized in one place.