Is There an Aquarium in Ocean City Maryland? A Local Treasure Found

Are you planning a trip to Ocean City, Maryland, and wondering if there’s an aquarium in this beautiful coastal town? If so, you’re not alone. Ocean City is a popular vacation destination known for its stunning beaches, boardwalk, and outdoor activities. However, many visitors are unaware of the exciting attractions and experiences that await them beyond the beach. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the topic of “Is There an Aquarium in Ocean City Maryland?” and provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your trip.

Ocean City, Maryland, is a charming coastal town that attracts millions of visitors each year. Its beautiful beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and exciting attractions make it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. However, despite its many attractions, many visitors are unaware of the aquarium that calls Ocean City home. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of marine life and explore the fascinating world of aquariums in Ocean City.

History of Aquariums in Ocean City Maryland

The concept of aquariums in Ocean City, Maryland, dates back to the early 20th century. The first aquarium in the area was established in the 1920s, but it was short-lived and closed due to financial difficulties. However, the idea of an aquarium in Ocean City was revived in the 1990s, and a new aquarium was established in 1997. The new aquarium was designed to showcase the marine life of the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay, and it quickly became a popular attraction in the area.

Over the years, the aquarium has undergone several expansions and renovations, and it has become one of the most popular attractions in Ocean City. Today, the aquarium is home to over 10,000 marine animals, including fish, sharks, sea turtles, and even dolphins. Visitors can explore the aquarium’s various exhibits, including the Shark Tank, the Sea Turtle Exhibit, and the Touch Tank, where they can get up close and personal with marine animals.

Types of Aquariums in Ocean City Maryland

There are several types of aquariums in Ocean City, Maryland, each offering a unique experience for visitors. Some of the most popular types of aquariums in the area include:

Public Aquariums: These are aquariums that are open to the public and offer a variety of exhibits and experiences. They are usually staffed by trained aquarium professionals who provide educational programs and interactive experiences for visitors.
Private Aquariums: These are aquariums that are owned and operated by private individuals or companies. They may offer private tours and experiences, but they are not open to the general public.
Marine Life Centers: These are aquariums that focus on the conservation and rehabilitation of marine animals. They may offer educational programs and interactive experiences, but their primary focus is on marine animal care and conservation.

Things to Do at the Aquarium in Ocean City Maryland

Visitors to the aquarium in Ocean City, Maryland, can enjoy a variety of experiences and activities. Some of the most popular things to do at the aquarium include:

Exhibits and Displays

The aquarium in Ocean City, Maryland, features a variety of exhibits and displays that showcase the marine life of the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. Some of the most popular exhibits include: (See Also: What Animals Can Live Together in an Aquarium? Harmony Guide)

The Shark Tank: This exhibit features a large tank filled with sharks, rays, and other marine animals. Visitors can walk through a tunnel and get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures.
The Sea Turtle Exhibit: This exhibit features a large tank filled with sea turtles, fish, and other marine animals. Visitors can learn about the life cycle of sea turtles and see them up close.
The Touch Tank: This exhibit allows visitors to touch and interact with marine animals, including starfish, anemones, and other creatures.

Interactive Experiences

The aquarium in Ocean City, Maryland, offers a variety of interactive experiences that allow visitors to get up close and personal with marine animals. Some of the most popular interactive experiences include:

Feeding Demonstrations: Visitors can watch as aquarium staff feed the marine animals, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
Animal Encounters: Visitors can participate in animal encounters, where they can get up close and personal with marine animals, including dolphins and sea lions.
Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Visitors can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium, where they can see the marine animals up close and learn about the aquarium’s operations.

Marine Life and Conservation

The aquarium in Ocean City, Maryland, is committed to marine life conservation and education. Some of the ways the aquarium supports marine life conservation include:

Marine Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation

The aquarium in Ocean City, Maryland, has a marine animal rescue and rehabilitation program that helps to rescue and rehabilitate marine animals that have been injured or stranded. Visitors can learn about the program and see the marine animals up close.

Conservation Education

The aquarium in Ocean City, Maryland, offers a variety of conservation education programs that teach visitors about the importance of marine life conservation. Some of the programs include:

Marine Life Conservation Programs: These programs teach visitors about the importance of marine life conservation and how they can help to protect marine animals and their habitats.
Environmental Education Programs: These programs teach visitors about the importance of environmental conservation and how they can help to protect the marine ecosystem.

Visitor Information

Visitors to the aquarium in Ocean City, Maryland, can find a variety of information and resources to help them plan their visit. Some of the most useful resources include:

Hours of Operation

The aquarium in Ocean City, Maryland, is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors can check the aquarium’s website for special hours and closures. (See Also: How Much Co2 Should I Put in My Aquarium? Optimal Levels Revealed)

Admission Prices

The admission prices for the aquarium in Ocean City, Maryland, vary depending on the time of year and the visitor’s age. Visitors can check the aquarium’s website for current prices and discounts.

Accessibility Information

The aquarium in Ocean City, Maryland, is wheelchair accessible and offers a variety of amenities for visitors with disabilities. Visitors can check the aquarium’s website for more information.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the aquarium in Ocean City, Maryland, is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in marine life and conservation. With its variety of exhibits, interactive experiences, and conservation education programs, the aquarium offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a family with young children, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a solo traveler interested in marine life, the aquarium is a great place to visit.

Recap of Key Points

Here are the key points from this article:

The aquarium in Ocean City, Maryland, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century.
The aquarium features a variety of exhibits and displays that showcase the marine life of the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay.
The aquarium offers a variety of interactive experiences, including feeding demonstrations, animal encounters, and behind-the-scenes tours.
The aquarium is committed to marine life conservation and education, with programs such as marine animal rescue and rehabilitation and conservation education.
Visitors can find a variety of information and resources to help them plan their visit, including hours of operation, admission prices, and accessibility information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)