National Aquarium
Maryland
Located in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium is a nonprofit public aquarium renowned for its extensive collection of aquatic life and engaging exhibits. Opened in 1981 during Baltimore's urban renewal, it houses over 17,000 animals representing more than 750 species within 2.2 million gallons of water. The aquarium features diverse habitats such as the Upland Tropical Rain Forest, a multi-story Atlantic Coral Reef, an open-ocean shark tank, and the award-winning Australia: Wild Extremes exhibit. Visitors can also enjoy the 4D Immersion Theater and a marine mammal pavilion home to Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, many born onsite. The aquarium emphasizes conservation, research, and education, actively participating in local ecosystem restoration and marine animal rescue. Its mission is to inspire stewardship of aquatic environments worldwide through pioneering science and public engagement. As Maryland's top tourist attraction, it offers a unique, immersive experience blending entertainment with environmental advocacy.
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Tip: Visit early in the day or late afternoon to avoid crowds, and consider purchasing timed-entry tickets online to ensure smooth access. Explore special tours and experiences like behind-the-scenes tours or 4D movies for a deeper engagement. Membership options provide unlimited visits and exclusive benefits. Check the official website for updated schedules and available discounts, especially for families, seniors, and military personnel.
Zajímavosti
- •The aquarium holds over 2.2 million gallons of water and is home to more than 17,000 animals representing over 750 species.
- •Australia: Wild Extremes exhibit won the 'Best Exhibit' award from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 2008.
- •Five of the six Atlantic bottlenose dolphins at the aquarium were born onsite, a rare achievement in captivity.
- •The National Aquarium's Marine Animal Rescue Program has successfully rehabilitated and released various marine mammals and sea turtles back into the wild.
- •The Glass Pavilion expansion, opened in 2005, is 120 feet tall and covers 64,500 square feet of exhibit space.
Historie
The National Aquarium was conceived in the mid-1970s as part of Baltimore's Inner Harbor redevelopment, inspired by a visit to Boston's New England Aquarium.
After a successful bond referendum in 1976, construction began in 1978 on Pier 3, with the facility opening on August 8, 1981.
Though built without federal funds, the U.S.
Congress designated it the 'national aquarium' in 1979.
The initial design was led by architect Peter Chermayeff.
In 2005, the Glass Pavilion expansion opened, adding significant exhibit space.
The aquarium formed an alliance with the National Aquarium in Washington, D.C., in 2003, which lasted until the D.C.
location closed in 2013.
Over the years, the aquarium has expanded its conservation and research programs, becoming a leader in aquatic ecosystem stewardship.
Průvodce po místě
Upland Tropical Rain Forest
A lush multi-level exhibit simulating a tropical rainforest ecosystem, featuring exotic plants, birds, and reptiles, offering visitors an immersive experience of this vibrant habitat.
Atlantic Coral Reef
A multi-story coral reef exhibit displaying vibrant marine life native to the Atlantic Ocean, including colorful fish, corals, and invertebrates, highlighting the importance of reef ecosystems.
Open-Ocean Shark Tank
A large tank housing various shark species in an open-ocean environment, designed to educate visitors about shark biology and conservation challenges.
Australia: Wild Extremes Exhibit2008
An award-winning exhibit featuring diverse Australian wildlife and habitats, including unique species such as kangaroos and crocodiles, emphasizing extreme environments.
Marine Mammal Pavilion1990
Home to Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, this pavilion offers insights into marine mammal care, behavior, and conservation efforts, including dolphins born at the aquarium.
4D Immersion Theater
An innovative theater experience combining 3D visuals with sensory effects to engage visitors with aquatic-themed films and educational content.
Kontakt
Telefon: (410) 576-3800