Southeastern Connecticut sports one of the finest Aquariums you'll find anywhere.
Mystic Aquarium, one of America’s leading aquariums, showcases the living collections, science and conservation work of Sea Research through exhibits, demonstrations and educational programs, emphasizing hands-on, interactive, live animal contact experiences for all ages.
Hosting more than 750,000 visitors annually, the Aquarium is open year-round and is Connecticut’s largest non-casino attraction. Mystic Aquarium is one of the few in North America housing Beluga whales and other rare and remarkable sea creatures.
The Institute for Exploration at Mystic Aquarium is a base for famed oceanographer and explorer Dr. Robert Ballard, widely known for his rediscovery and preservation of Titanic, Bismarck, PT-109 and many others. Dr. Ballard’s advancements in deep sea technology have made it possible to uncover secrets of the world’s oceans and bring them in real time to young people across America. These discoveries are featured in Dr. Ballard’s ever-changing Challenge of the Deep exhibition at Mystic Aquarium.
Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration is open daily, except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
March 1st thru November 30th : Sunday-Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (once inside guests may visit until 6:00 pm)December 1st thru February 29th : Monday - Friday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm (once inside guests may visit until 5:00 pm)
Saturday, Sunday, Holidays 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (once inside guests may visit until 6:00 pm)
Hours are subject to change without notice.
A visit to Mystic Acquarium wouldn't be complete without a stop at the Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration Store. Located next to the Ocean Planet Pavilion, you'll find a great selection of gifts, books, videos, apparel and much more, so be sure to leave plenty of time to browse.
The Penguins Cafe, adjacent to the Ocean Planet Pavilion, has a great menu with a variety of foods sure to satisfy guests of all ages. If you prefer, there's also a picnic area near the east end of the parking lot.
The Aquarium has plenty of free parking and handicapped parking on the premises.
Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express are accepted for admission, membership and store purchases. The Penguins Café and Gift Shop at Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration accepts cash and credit cards.
Visit Mystic Acquarium website for tickets and pricing, membership, events, shows and seasonal programs, group reservations, driving directions, functions and parties, and show information.
