Adventure Aquarium is on the Camden waterfront in New Jersey, across the Delaware River from Philadelphia. Its shark tunnel puts you beneath swimming sharks, while the V-shaped Shark Bridge crosses above the tank for a different view. You can also see hippos, penguins, turtles and stingrays, and touch some marine animals at interactive exhibits. Plan for a family-friendly half-day, with plenty to explore indoors. Buy tickets online ahead of time, and consider bringing snacks to keep food costs down.
A waterfront aquarium across the river
Adventure Aquarium is at 1 Riverside Drive in Camden, New Jersey, on the Delaware River waterfront. It is a short trip from Philadelphia, but allow for the crossing and your chosen transport when planning the day. The aquarium has exhibits spread across two million gallons of water, with marine life ranging from sharks and sea turtles to penguins and hippos.
The layout brings you close to the animals at several points. Exhibit signs provide information as you go, and staff are available to talk about the animals. If you want to catch a particular animal chat or feeding, check the daily schedule when you arrive; those moments can give you a closer look at how the animals behave.
A map and schedule can help you choose a route through the exhibits, especially if you are visiting with children. There is also a café, a gift shop and indoor areas for younger visitors. The attraction is designed for families, but the large tanks and underwater views give adults plenty to linger over too.
Sharks, hippos and hands-on exhibits
The shark exhibits are a central part of a visit. A glass tunnel takes you through the tank, so you can watch sharks pass above and around you. For another perspective, the Shark Bridge is a suspended rope crossing just above the water. It is an optional experience, and may not suit anyone uneasy with heights.
Adventure Aquarium is also known for its hippos, which can be viewed above and below the water in their pool. Look for the underwater viewing area to see them swimming. Penguins, turtles and stingrays are among the other animals to seek out, while the jellyfish exhibit gives you a quieter stop among illuminated tanks.
Interactive areas let visitors touch selected sea life. Touch pools include stingrays and small sharks, and the children’s zone has hands-on exhibits for younger guests. Follow the posted guidance at each pool and handle the animals gently. The experience is best suited to children who are comfortable approaching animals; anyone who would rather observe can watch from beside the exhibits.
Planning your visit
Advance tickets are recommended because entry lines can build up. The aquarium can be busy on weekdays as well as weekends, particularly when school or summer groups are visiting, so a weekday visit is not a guarantee of quiet. Arriving earlier gives you more time to move through the exhibits before the day gets crowded.
Food and drinks are available inside, but bringing your own snacks can help manage costs. Water refill stations are available. There is a café area, and the building also has a gift shop. Parking is available in paid lots near the aquarium; there is also some free street parking, though availability is not guaranteed.
Special events and animal encounters can add something different to the visit. Seasonal programming has included festive aquarium displays and themed events. Some animal encounters, such as snorkeling with sharks and rays or feeding experiences, carry an extra fee. Check the aquarium’s website before you go for current event details and ticket information.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Adventure Aquarium in Philadelphia?
No. It is at 1 Riverside Drive in Camden, New Jersey, across the Delaware River from Philadelphia.
How long should you spend at Adventure Aquarium?
Allow about 3 to 4 hours for a typical visit, or roughly half a day to explore the exhibits at an unhurried pace.
Can you touch animals at Adventure Aquarium?
Yes. Touch exhibits include selected sea animals such as stingrays and small sharks. Follow the guidance posted at each pool.
Should you buy tickets in advance?
Yes. Advance tickets are recommended because lines can form at entry.
Can you bring food to Adventure Aquarium?
You can bring snacks, and water refill stations are available. Food and drinks are also sold inside.
