The New York Aquarium in Brooklyn can be found on Surf Avenue and West 8th Street in Brooklyn, New York City. It's conveniently situated within walking distance of both the subway and a bus station, and it offers parking for those who decide to drive for a fee of $12. The New York Aquarium is managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). Opened on December 10, 1896, the New York Aquarium is not only the oldest operating aquarium in New York, but it is the oldest in the United States as a whole. It rests on 14-acres of land, right by the ocean, and is home to over 350 different species of animal.
The New York Aquarium hosts a number of interesting and educational activities throughout the year. "Planet Earth: Shallow Seas 4-D Experience'', lets patrons experience the ocean as never before, using all their senses while they explore the ocean without the need of an expensive wetsuit. An assortment of feedings is also available for viewing. Patrons can watch as aquarium workers and animal experts interact with sea otters, sharks, penguins, walruses, and countless other creatures. Other animals that can be seen at the New York Aquarium are black-footed penguins, flower hat jellies, California sea lions, and sand tiger sharks.
At the "Explore the Shore'' exhibit, visitors can see knifefish and electric eels, watching the creatures use electricity to survive. They can also stand beneath a tidal wave as it crashes above them, staying completely dry in the "Crash Zone''. The exhibit also offers the rare opportunity to see a living salt marsh as it looks under water.
In the Touch Pool, visitors can touch and hold smaller beach sea life in an open, shallow tank. The "Octopus Chats'' activity gives attendees the chance to witness just how intelligent the eight-limbed creatures are, watching them solve puzzles and problems in order to earn a tasty treat. The also have a number of special events. In October, the New York Aquarium hosts "Halloween at the A-Scarium'', an event dedicated to celebrating the "Monsters of the Deep'', such as sharks and octopuses. Throughout the year, the aquarium also holds smaller events such as the "Mermaids of the Deep'' program, which happens alongside the Coney Island Mermaid Parade, and the "Walrus Big Baby Birthday Bash'', which will celebrate the second birthday of Tuusaq, one of the aquarium's resident baby walruses.
Hungry visitors can stop by the SeaSide Caf,, which is conveniently open year round, serving a variety of snacks and goodies. Though credit cards are accepted at the New York Aquarium, those planning a trip can also opt to purchase tickets online. Wheelchairs are available for rent at the aquarium as well, making it fully handicap accessible.
Special group rates are available to those who meet the requirements and also preregister. The aquarium is open year round. Admission costs $9 to $17 normally, but on Fridays, from 3p.m. to closing, the New York Aquarium allows visitors to "pay-what-they-wish'', offering free admission, but encouraging donations, as all money goes to supporting care for the aquarium's animals. Guests can call 718-265-FISH for more information about the facility.
