3 Benefits of Visiting A Public Aquarium (And How to Find One)

Do you want to learn about some of the unique and beautiful sights of the world’s aquatic animals? A public aquarium is a great place to explore them.
Some of the best aquariums in the world are right here in the United States, entailing thousands of different types of fish in one place, not to mention an array of other aquatic animals that includes reef sharks, stingrays and much more.
When on vacation, why not spend your day exploring these magnificent creatures? Check out a list below as we review why you and your family should visit a local aquarium on your next trip:
1. Public Aquariums Offer Fun for All Ages
Public aquariums offer amazing experiences that every member of the family will enjoy. If you want your children to understand and appreciate the different habitats they’re surrounded with, go on a trip to an aquarium.
Sure, they can watch videos of aquatic creatures and their behaviors but nothing is quite like seeing them in person – the experience is more three-dimensional and higher-impact than just looking at their behavior on your computer screen!
Many of the best aquariums out there also have touch tanks where kids get an opportunity to touch baby sharks, rays, jellyfish – yes, JELLYFISH! – sea cucumbers, crabs, sea stars and so many other interesting animals. This is a great way for them to learn about new living things and it can help lower their apprehension towards things that are new to them.
2. Fish Aquariums Offer A Tranquil, Relaxing Environment and Are Educational, Too!
Today, there’s a renewed interest in learning more about nature and the outdoors, and taking time to connect with Mother Earth.
Fish tanks are an excellent way to return to the “small” world that we all live in and provide us with a glimpse of the other kinds of life all around us unseen. With so much information reaching us all at once, an afternoon spent inside an aquarium helps ground you and makes you feel connected to the world around you.
Public aquariums also have exhibits dedicated to local watersheds or shorelines which help you understand the ecology of the area, and how you can be better stewards of your environment by learning from it.
3. Public Aquariums Offer Family Bonding Time Through Experience
A public aquarium can be a great place for family bonding. You’ll get to learn about new aquatic habitats and the different creatures that live there, and you might even see some rare specimens in the audience. Don’t forget to bring your cameras!
Exhibits are designed with signage describing the animals on display, which is a great way for kids to learn new vocabulary words. And once you become an accomplished aquarium keeper, your exhibits can also provide inspiration for decorating your own area(s) and creating more natural habitats at home.
4. Tips to Plan For Your Next Aquarium Visit
To get the most out of your visit, it’s best to plan ahead. In addition to hours of operation, admission fees and directions, you should also check the aquarium’s website for discounts and parking availability. You can find a map there too that will help you pick out exhibits you don’t want to miss.
Many facilities also offer behind-the-scenes tours and special activities for kids, as well as immersive experiences like live prerecorded shows and touch tanks.
Lastly, plan adequate time since most aquariums are not only a place to view – they require an afternoon or all-day experience that may entail some walking. All in all, however, visiting an aquarium is sure to be a fun and educational experience you and your family won’t soon forget!
The best way to make the most of your visit is to plan ahead. Directions, admission fees, hours of operation and other important details can be found on their website that’s easy to navigate. There are usually maps included which will help you pick out areas you want to see or avoid if you are planning your visit around peak visitation times.
Most aquariums offer behind-the-scenes tours and there are usually special activities for kids, as well as accommodations for with small children or older relatives. Finally, don’t forget to add in adequate time and wear comfortable clothing and footwear!
It typically takes a long time to get there, park and get inside so be prepared with an all-day experience that involves some walking. In general, though, it’s a fun and educational experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime!