American Aquariums: The Best of the Sea on Land
Sea World of Orlando ranks among high as the best of the best. At Sea World, visitors not only have the opportunity to observe marine creatures up close but can also feed the dolphins and watch Shamu. Multiple venues for viewing ocean life forms may spark an interest in marine biology and if not, other attractions offer appeal for everyone. Two roller coasters at the park offer additional fun. If Orlando seems distant, other Sea World parks are open in San Antonio and in San Diego.
Southern sea life fans can get a closer look at the Audubon Aquarium. Located in the river front district of the Big Easy, this aquarium features ecosystem displays, rare white alligators, and other unusual marine life. Look for favorite creatures as well in one of the best places to take children in New Orleans, an adult oriented city.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium in California is an aquarium that offers hands-on experience. A touch pool for toddlers is just one of the attractions that draw families back again and again. The sea lion exhibit allows a look at the creatures in native habitat. Shark tanks, great exhibits and more make it worth passing up a day at the beach to visit this aquarium.
Kentucky might seem an unlikely place to study the inhabitants of the deep but the Newport Aquarium in Newport, Kentucky is a carefully planned facility sure to interest all ages. A hands-on area that allows small fry to feel starfish and turtles is fun and so is the “shark tunnel” that provides a unique look at swimming sharks from every perspective. Jelly fish affectionados will find the exhibit here one of the best.
In the Sooner state, the Oklahoma Aquarium at Jenks near Tulsa is home to thousands of sea creatures from around the globe. The Marvels and Mysteries of the Deep exhibit features sea horses, octopuses, lobster, shrimp and more.
A diversity gallery features other aquatic creatures and more.
Neighboring Missouri is home to the Wonders of Wildlife Zooquarium in Springfield, a unique facility that includes aquariums with 700,000 gallons of water. Look for the Out to Sea gallery with ceiling tall windows that afford a fantastic view. Wonders of Wildlife has other exhibits including a native Ozarks habitat with a walk in the woods.
The Windy City also is home to the John G. Shedd Aquarium. Marine mammals on display here include beluga whales and dolphins. A shark reef and many other aquatic displays offer families many delights at the world’s largest indoor aquarium.
Look for the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland. A walk-through rain forest, amazing dolphin performances, displays designed to give a scuba diver’s perspective, and so many sea creatures that it’s best to plan to spend the entire day on site.
Throughout the United States opportunities to visit aquariums abound. Family outings, school field trips, a date for couples, or exploration of marine life are possible at any of the many aquariums.
