New England Aquarium

The basics

Pre-book admission tickets to enjoy skip-the-line entry, or opt for combination packages. These pair admission with movies at the Simons IMAX Theatre or whale-watching cruises to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. For a full experience, animal encounters offer guests the chance to meet and even make art with harbor seals under professional supervision.

If you’re sightseeing in Boston, consider investing in a Boston CityPASS, a Boston Explorer Pass, or a Go Boston Card, which offer discounted entrance to the aquarium and other attractions.

Things to know before you go

• The New England Aquarium is a must-see for families with kids.

• Large bags are not permitted inside the aquarium but storage lockers are available.

• The New England Aquarium is fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, and entrance is free for wheelchair users and visitors with visual impairments.

• The Harbor View Café is on Level 2 of the Aquarium.

How to get there

The New England Aquarium overlooks the Boston Inner Harbor from its location on Central Wharf, off State Street and Atlantic Avenue. The aquarium is accessible via the MBTA subway, or the T, which has a stop on State Street.

When to get there

The New England Aquarium is open daily all year round, although opening times vary throughout the year. The busiest time is during the middle of the day, so opt for an early morning or late afternoon visit to avoid the crowds.

Marine Animals at the New England Aquarium

The aquarium’s star attraction is the awesome 4-story, 200,000-gallon (760,000-liter) Giant Ocean Tank, a Caribbean coral reef swirling with sea turtles, sharks, cownose rays, eels, and exotic fish. Elsewhere, spot Atlantic harbor seals, California sea lions, penguins, and sea otters. Learn about conservation efforts at the Olympic Coast Exhibit; visit the Edge of the Sea touch tank; and discover fascinating exhibits such as Amazing Jellies and Science of Sharks.

How long does it take to go through the New England Aquarium?

Allow at least two hours to go through the New England Aquarium. You’ll need an additional 3-4 hours to take a whale-watching tour, and 35-45 minutes to watch an IMAX screening.

Can I bring a backpack to the New England Aquarium?

Yes, you can bring a small backpack to the New England Aquarium. However, bags larger than 12 inches by 12 inches by 12 inches (30 centimeters) are not allowed inside, with the exception of diaper bags and carriers for medical supplies.

Do you need to book the New England Aquarium tickets in advance?

No, booking tickets for the New England Aquarium in advance isn’t required. However, booking is highly recommended as the aquarium has a timed entry system, and availability for walk-up purchases isn’t guaranteed. Those arriving without reservations may find their preferred time slot sold out.

Can you bring cameras to the New England Aquarium?

Yes, you can bring a camera and take pictures inside the New England Aquarium—the aquarium encourages sharing them on social media. However, tripods and stands are prohibited, and flash photography and flashlights are restricted in certain parts of the aquarium, as they can cause distress to animals.

Can I leave and come back to the New England Aquarium?

Yes, if you have an errand to run or want to eat lunch off-site, you can leave the New England Aquarium and return on the same day. Just make sure to retain your ticket, as it’s valid for the full day of your visit.

When is the last entry time of the day to the New England Aquarium?

The last timed entry to the New England Aquarium is 80 minutes before closing. Opening and closing times vary throughout the week and the year but are typically between 9am and 5pm or 6pm. Check the schedule on the aquarium website before planning your visit.

Ways to explore

It’s worth prebooking admission tickets to the New England Aquarium to guarantee your entry and enjoy a hassle-free visiting experience. Set aside at least half a day to take in the aquarium’s wealth of exhibits and wildlife, and see a 3D film at the on-site Simons Theatre. To complete the experience, book a trainer-led private animal encounter with Atlantic harbor seals, and learn more about their behavior and habitat.

If you’re sightseeing in Boston, consider investing in a Boston CityPASS® card, which offers discounted entrance to the aquarium and numerous other city attractions.

Accessibility

The aquarium is wheelchair accessible and welcomes service dogs. A range of other accessibility accommodations is provided.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Snacks and water bottles, camera, handheld bag

What to wear

Wear comfortable layers and walking shoes with a good grip.

Not allowed

Pets, large bags and backpacks, disruptive and unruly behavior, smoking

Amenities

Cafés and picnic tables, water fountains, gift shops, storage lockers

Address

The New England Aquarium is located on Central Wharf in Downtown Boston. To get there, use public transportation, take a cab or rideshare, or opt for a tour that includes transportation.

Driving

Boston’s traffic is notoriously challenging to navigate, so it’s better to avoid driving if you can. Instead, book a taxi or rideshare service and let someone else do the driving.

Public transportation

By rapid transit, take the Blue Line of the MBTA (known locally as “the T”) to Aquarium station—it’s conveniently located about a 3-minute walk from the New England Aquarium’s entrance.

Best times to visit

The New England Aquarium is typically open from mid-morning to early evening; it is open an hour later on weekends. Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds and maximize your time.

Best days to visit

As the New England Aquarium is open daily, there’s rarely a bad time to visit. However, if you’re looking to beat the crowds, it’s best to avoid weekends and holidays.

Best months to visit

Summer is the tourism high season in Boston—and when attractions such as the New England Aquarium are most likely to be crowded. Aim for another time of year instead.

Special events

The aquarium offers guided animal encounters, film screenings, and more; consult its calendar to learn more about its available events.