The Maritime Aquarium

The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, located in Norwalk, Connecticut, is a premier destination dedicated to showcasing the rich marine life of Long Island Sound. Established on July 16, 1988, the aquarium spans 140,000 square feet and is home to over 2,700 animals representing 300 species.

Exhibits and Attractions

Visitors can explore 75 live exhibits featuring more than 7,500 animals. The journey begins along a freshwater river and the shallow waters of the salt marsh, progressing into deeper habitats leading to the open ocean.

Notable exhibits include:

• Pinniped Cove: An expansive habitat where harbor seals interact with their environment.
• Life Among the Grasses: A bilingual exhibit that delves into the salt marshes of Long Island Sound.
• Ocean Beyond the Sound: A 110,000-gallon habitat housing various large sharks.

The aquarium also offers interactive touch tanks where guests can safely engage with stingrays, nurse sharks, crabs, sea stars, moon jellyfish, and other coastal creatures.

Educational Programs and Research

Committed to marine science and environmental education, The Maritime Aquarium provides STEM-based programs for schools, hands-on public cruises aboard its unique hybrid-electric research vessel, and special events.

These initiatives aim to inspire visitors of all ages to appreciate and protect the Long Island Sound ecosystem and the global environment.

Visitor Information

The aquarium operates daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., closing only on Thanksgiving and Christmas days.

Admission prices are:

• Adults (age 13-64): $33.95
• Children (age 3-12): $24.95
• Seniors (age 65+): $29.95
• Children under 3 enter free

The facility is ADA compliant and features two on-site cafes, a gift shop, and a 4D theater.

Economic Impact

In the fiscal year 2021-2022, The Maritime Aquarium attracted nearly 500,000 visitors, contributing approximately $88.6 million in economic activity to Connecticut.

This impact underscores the aquarium's role as a significant cultural and economic asset to the region.

Location

The Maritime Aquarium is situated at 10 North Water Street, Norwalk, CT 06854.

It is easily accessible from I-95 and the Metro-North Railroad, with convenient covered parking available nearby.

• Norwalk, CT, USA