On Coney Island’s boardwalk in Brooklyn, the New York Aquarium brings together sharks, penguins, sea lions, seals, sea otters, stingrays and jellyfish. Walk through the glass shark tunnel, look for octopuses and moon jellies in Spineless, and see marine life in indoor and outdoor habitats. The aquarium also has interactive exhibits, including a touch pool, and focuses on ocean conservation. It is a compact stop that pairs naturally with time on the boardwalk, especially for families and anyone curious about sea life.
From Battery Park to Coney Island
The New York Aquarium began in 1896 at Castle Garden in Battery Park, Manhattan. It moved to Coney Island in 1957 and now sits at 602 Surf Avenue, alongside the Riegelmann Boardwalk in Brooklyn. It is operated by the Wildlife Conservation Society, whose work includes wildlife conservation and education.
The boardwalk setting makes it easy to combine the aquarium with a walk by the sea. The location is a substantial trip from downtown Manhattan, so plan around the journey and decide whether to leave time for other Coney Island stops.
Sharks, jellyfish and other marine life
Ocean Wonders: Sharks is a central draw. Its glass tunnel lets you look up at sharks swimming above and around you. Take your time as you pass through, rather than treating the tunnel as a quick corridor.
Spineless turns attention to invertebrates, including Pacific octopuses and moon jellies. Elsewhere, exhibits feature stingrays, penguins, sea lions, seals and sea otters. The displays bring together marine life associated with different ocean habitats, including recreated reef and rocky-coast environments. Some viewing areas give you overhead or below-water perspectives on the animals.
A touch pool provides an interactive element, while the Playquarium is designed for young children, with play structures and a slide. Families can check which exhibits and activities are available for their visit before setting their pace.
Shows and planning your visit
The outdoor Aquatheater hosts sea lion presentations, with animals and their trainers. The aquarium also has a 4D theater, located separately near the parking area rather than within the main aquarium grounds. Check the layout as you arrive so you do not miss it while exploring the exhibits.
Advance ticket booking is recommended. Weekdays and early visits can be quieter, though school groups and seasonal crowds can affect how busy the aquarium feels. Most of the exhibits are indoors, which can make the visit a useful option when beach weather is less inviting. Plan for roughly two to three hours to explore, and leave extra time if you want to include the boardwalk.
FAQ
Where is the New York Aquarium?
It is at 602 Surf Avenue on the Coney Island boardwalk in Brooklyn, New York City.
How long should you spend at the New York Aquarium?
Plan for about two to three hours to explore the exhibits.
What are the main exhibits at the New York Aquarium?
Highlights include Ocean Wonders: Sharks, with a glass tunnel, and Spineless, which includes octopuses and moon jellies. You can also see penguins, sea lions, seals and sea otters.
Should you book New York Aquarium tickets in advance?
Yes. Advance ticket booking is recommended.
