Central Wharf
617-973-5200
www.neaq.org
Remember those dinky
aquariums that seemed to exist in every little coastal town, but
were always a disappointment? The exhibits totaled a school of
minnows, one shy clam, and an angry lobster. The New England
Aquarium is not like that. The lobster may still be angry, but
she’s joined by at least one hundred other exhibits: all of
them thoughtfully constructed, and carefully documented.
This Aquarium is one of
the best of its kind. It sits dockside on Boston Harbor, and
along with a jam-packed main exhibit hall, there are outside
exhibits, a sea lion show in a separate building, and an
Activity Center located across the street.
The NEAq (as it’s known)
carries on other important behind-the-scenes roles. An extensive
medical center treats injured sea mammals and reptiles – some
of the labs are visible behind glass so that equipment and staff
are on display. The NEAq holds the federal mandate for rescue
and rehabilitation of sea creatures (including whales and
dolphins) stranded along the coasts of Maine, New Hampshire and
Massachusetts. It’s a big responsibility, and although you won’t
see the injured animals, take the time to look at the labs that
treat them.
What you will see here are
penguins, tanks and tanks of fish, shellfish, crustaceans, and
every water habitat imaginable. In the center of the main hall
is the Giant Ocean Tank – a four story, round tank filled with
saltwater fish, sharks, sea turtles, rays, a coral reef and its
tiny inhabitants. Divers enter the tank five times daily. Thanks
to the ramp that skirts it, the tank is easily accessible, even
on crowded days. Once you’ve reached the top, go upstairs and
look down inside it. The view is different and the turtles often
surface for air.
Around the perimeter of
the big tank are three levels of other exhibits. In addition,
there is a new section on the lower lever just at the entrance.
Don’t miss it – there are jellyfish, shore birds, and a
quirky little display case with sand eels. Out the back door,
see the California Sea otters frolic next to the Harbor Seals.
Next door is the Discovery building where sea lion shows take
place six times daily. On the top deck is the Discovery
Immersive Theater, a virtual, interactive rendering of
Stellwagen Bank called Storm over Stellwagen. Shows here start
12 times a day.
The NEAq can get noisy –
the main hall echoes. It’s a classy aquarium though, and well
worth a visit. The layout helps keep people moving – try to
choose a sunny day
and avoid school days if
you can. The Aquarium is an exciting place, and professionally
handled. If you only have time to visit three places, make this
one of them; it’s that wonderful.
Hours:
Monday – Friday: 9 – 5
Weekends, Holidays: 9 - 6
Mass. School Vacations: 9
– 6
Longer hours July and
August
Closed Thanksgiving and
Christmas
Admission:
Adults (12+): $12.00
Children 3 – 11: $6.00
Under 3: Free
Seniors: $10.00
Higher rates apply in July
and August.
NEW
ENGLAND AQUARIUM
ATTRACTIONS
