Consistently recognized as one of the top aquariums in the United States, the New England Aquarium has been enhanced after a 10-month, comprehensive $17.3 million renovation. The aquarium’s iconic four-story Giant Ocean Tank now supports more than 2,000 tropical fish, sharks, sea turtles, and other marine animals in a habitat carefully redesigned for both animal welfare and visitor experience.
Boston’s renewed coral reef exhibit ranks among the most biodiverse displays in the world, featuring 140 species that thrive in an environment modeled on the appearance and function of a pristine reef prior to extensive human influence. The exhibit emphasizes naturalistic settings and sustainable husbandry practices to showcase reef complexity and resilience.
Beyond the Giant Ocean Tank, visitors can interact closely with marine life in several specialized areas. The Trust Family Foundation Shark and Ray Touch Tank—the largest of its kind on the East Coast—offers guided, hands-on encounters with small sharks and stingrays. The New Balance Foundation Marine Mammal Center features lively California sea lions and Northern fur seals, while the penguin habitat highlights African, rockhopper, and little blue penguins engaging in playful behaviors that delight guests of all ages.
An exceptional offering is the aquarium’s whale-watch cruise to Stellwagen Bank, located about 25 miles east of Boston. Designated as America’s only whale feeding sanctuary, Stellwagen Bank attracts humpback, minke, and fin whale species, along with dolphins and numerous seabirds. These voyages provide opportunities for observation, interpretation, and education about marine ecosystems and conservation.
“As we approach a half century of being a top tourist attraction in New England, it is very exciting to know we have so much more to offer in an ever-changing world where we can actively instruct the public on how to do their part to help the oceans survive,” said Bud Ris, president and CEO of the New England Aquarium.
The aquarium combines immersive exhibits, hands-on learning, and marine expeditions to create memorable visits that also inspire stewardship. Its recent upgrades improve habitat quality and visitor engagement while reinforcing the institution’s commitment to conservation, research, and public education.
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