New York Aquarium

Open
yelp logo

(581)

Photos

602 Surf Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11224

About the New York Aquarium

The New York Aquarium is located at 602 Surf Ave in Brooklyn, New York. It first opened its doors in 1896, making it the oldest continually operating aquarium in the United States. The aquarium is part of the Wildlife Conservation Society and aims to educate visitors about marine life, conservation efforts, and the importance of protecting our oceans. With over 350 species to discover, including sharks, sea turtles, penguins, and beluga whales, the New York Aquarium is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

How to get to the New York Aquarium

Getting to the New York Aquarium is relatively easy thanks to its convenient location in Brooklyn. Visitors can take the subway to the aquarium by using the F, Q, or N line and getting off at the West 8th Street-New York Aquarium station. Additionally, several bus lines, including the B36 and B68, also stop near the aquarium. For those driving, there is parking available nearby, although it can get crowded during peak hours, so arriving early is recommended.

Best and worst time to go to New York Aquarium

The best time to visit the New York Aquarium is during the weekdays, especially in the morning when the crowds are thinner. The aquarium tends to get quite busy on weekends and holidays, so if possible, try to plan your visit during quieter times. Additionally, visiting during the spring or fall seasons can provide a more pleasant experience as the weather is generally milder compared to the hot summer months.

Admission to New York Aquarium

The admission prices for the New York Aquarium vary depending on age and residency. General admission for adults is $29.95, while children (ages 3-12) and seniors (65+) can enjoy discounted rates of $24.95. There are also admission packages available that include access to other attractions within the Wildlife Conservation Society, such as the Bronx Zoo or Central Park Zoo. It's worth noting that the aquarium offers free admission to New York City residents on Wednesdays after 3 pm.

Must see/do at New York Aquarium

When visiting the New York Aquarium, be sure to catch the daily feeding shows and educational presentations. These interactive experiences allow visitors to learn more about the animals and their habitats while witnessing their feeding behaviors up close. Don't miss the Sea Cliffs exhibit, where you can observe sea lions and harbor seals swimming and playing in a recreated natural habitat. The Aquatheater is another highlight, featuring live sea lion performances that are both entertaining and educational.

Other places to visit near New York Aquarium

If you have some extra time after exploring the New York Aquarium, consider visiting nearby attractions in Brooklyn. Just a short distance away, you can enjoy the iconic Coney Island Boardwalk, with its amusement park rides, sandy beaches, and delicious eateries. Additionally, the Brooklyn Cyclones, a minor league baseball team, play their home games at the nearby MCU Park during the baseball season, providing another entertaining option for sports enthusiasts.

Insider tips for visitors to New York Aquarium

To make the most of your visit to the New York Aquarium, it's recommended to arrive early and plan your day accordingly. Take advantage of quieter times to avoid crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience. Consider bringing your own snacks and water as the food options within the aquarium can be limited and expensive. Lastly, don't forget to check the daily schedule for animal feedings and presentations to plan your visit around these exciting events.

Generated from the website

Reviews

yelp logo
3.0581 reviews
Photo of Chun M.
Chun M.
9/16/2025

The New York Aquarium is run by the Wildlife Conservation Society, a non-profit that also runs all the zoos in New York City. The aquarium has its origins at Battery Park in 1896 and was...

Photo of Nancy A.
Nancy A.
9/7/2025

Haven't been to this aquarium since I was in public school before college days. I remember eating school lunch in the aquarium with my classmates and that was pretty much it. I did not remember...

Photo of Carmen L.
Carmen L.
8/3/2025

The New York Aquarium right next to Coney Island ! This is another attraction that you can't miss. It's good to drop by after a hot day outside. Check in was a breeze they scan your qr code if you...

Photo of Vivian G.
Vivian G.
7/25/2025

As a Brooklyn native, I love that I now come back with my grandkids. This has always been a small aquarium, the only complaint I had was the seal "show" was so short, it took more time to get...

Photo of Wing L.
Wing L.
6/10/2025

Great attraction for all ages. It was a Shell-a-bration weekend. There were different activities and educational information. The activities were mostly coloring. It would have been nicer if...

Own this business?
See a problem?

You might also like

United StatesNew YorkBrooklynNew York Aquarium

Partial Data by Infogroup (c) 2025. All rights reserved.

Partial Data by Foursquare.