The ocean and its many inhabitants are having a moment.
National Geographic Encounter: Ocean Odyssey offers its visitors a unique immersive experience that journeys from the South Pacific to the coast of California. "Unseen Oceans" at the American Museum of Natural History takes viewers underwater to explore depths of the Earth we didn't even realized existed. But now, the New York Aquarium will up the ante.
The 800,000-gallon exhibit, "Ocean Wonders: Sharks!," is set for a June 30 debut and will feature NYC's underwater residents—nurse sharks, sand tiger sharks, sandbar sharks. Don't fret: You can catch a glimpse of other creatures, too, such as cownose rays and hawksbill sea turtles. These 115 species are the neighbors you didn't even know you had!
This exhibit will take you through the New York you're not quite as familiar with. Take the kiddies through the glass tunnels brimming with fish so they can explore another side of the place they call home. Let them become familiar with these animals during a visit to the Ocean View Learning Laboratory. The options available will certainly make for a busy family outing.
Even better? On Fridays and Saturdays in August (including Sept 1 and 2), Summer Nights at the aquarium will take place. This means longer hours (the venue will remain open until 10pm, and the last entry will be at 9pm). It's a perfect way to wrap up the season and take advantage of all that Coney Island offers. Get a glimpse of the Friday-night fireworks, catch the 7:30pm sea lion show and enjoy "Ocean Wonders: Sharks" at night. Should mom and dad be traveling solo, there's also roof deck access with food and cocktails.
Want to learn more about what's cooking under the sea? Dive right in and learn how to get tickets.
Looking for more family-friendly fun in NYC? Visit a few kids attractions, grab a bite a one of these fun restaurants and start making a list of things to do in spring.
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