On Boston’s Central Wharf, the New England Aquarium brings together marine life from Caribbean reefs, local tide pools and other habitats. Its four-story Giant Ocean Tank is the main draw: follow the ramp around the reef and look for sea turtles, sharks, rays and schools of fish. You can also see penguins, seals and a giant Pacific octopus, and get hands-on at the touch tanks. The waterfront setting adds harbor views, and the aquarium is a practical indoor stop for families or a rainy day.
The Giant Ocean Tank
The aquarium opened in 1969, with its building planned around a central cylindrical tank and a route that takes visitors up around it. The Giant Ocean Tank recreates a Caribbean coral reef and holds 200,000 gallons of salt water. As you follow the ramp, you can view the habitat from different levels and angles. Look for sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, eels and tropical fish among the reef life.
The tank is a good place to slow down: marine animals move through the water at different depths, so looking from more than one level changes what you can see. Smaller exhibits and informational displays sit around the central route. They explain the species and habitats represented in the aquarium, as well as ways to protect marine life.
Penguins, seals and touch tanks
Penguins greet visitors near the start of the aquarium route, while the penguin colony can be seen from the lower levels. The aquarium also has Atlantic harbor seals, sea lions and a giant Pacific octopus, alongside saltwater and freshwater fish. Take time to look for the octopus and the different animals in the smaller exhibits rather than spending the whole visit at the central tank.
Touch tanks give visitors a closer look at marine animals. The Shark and Ray Touch Tank has rays and sharks; another touch exhibit focuses on animals found in local tide pools. Follow any guidance posted at the exhibits and handle animals gently. Families can also look for tactile displays near many exhibits, which provide another way to explore the collections.
Planning a visit with children
The aquarium’s self-guided route makes it possible to move at your own pace. Its central ramp and elevators make the building navigable with a stroller or wheelchair, and family restrooms are available. A baby and sensory calm-down room can give families with young children a quieter place to pause. Lighting is low throughout much of the aquarium, a point to consider if you or someone in your group has low vision; tactile displays near many exhibits can help.
The aquarium is at 1 Central Wharf, on Boston Harbor. Harbor seals can also be seen in an outdoor exhibit, so you can pause there before or after going inside. Timed tickets are recommended, and going early or choosing an off-peak time can help you avoid the busiest periods. If you plan to visit several Boston attractions, compare the available CityPASS or Go City options with your itinerary before buying.
FAQ
Where is the New England Aquarium?
It is at 1 Central Wharf on Boston’s waterfront.
How long do you need at the New England Aquarium?
A short visit can take about 30 to 60 minutes. Allow extra time if you want to linger at the tank, touch exhibits or animal displays.
Can you see animals without going inside?
Atlantic harbor seals are visible in an outdoor exhibit at the aquarium.
Is the New England Aquarium suitable for a visit with children?
Yes. It has penguins, touch tanks, a children’s area, elevators and family restrooms. A baby and sensory calm-down room is also available.
