The National Aquarium is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year. Located in Baltimore, Maryland, the aquarium is home to over 20,000 animals from around the world, including sharks, rays, sea turtles, and fish of all kinds. The aquarium is known for its stunning exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs that promote conservation and awareness about the importance of marine life. But for many people, the question remains: is the National Aquarium free?
For those who have never visited the aquarium before, the idea of paying an admission fee can be daunting. The cost of admission can range from $30 to $50 per person, depending on the time of year and the type of ticket purchased. However, there are several options available for those who want to visit the aquarium without breaking the bank. In this article, we will explore the different ways to visit the National Aquarium for free or at a reduced cost.
Admission Options
The National Aquarium offers several admission options that can help make it more affordable for visitors. Here are a few options to consider:
General Admission
The general admission ticket is the most common type of ticket purchased by visitors. This ticket grants access to all exhibits and attractions within the aquarium, including the Shark Alley exhibit, the Dolphin Discovery exhibit, and the Sea Turtle exhibit. The cost of a general admission ticket varies depending on the time of year and the type of ticket purchased.
General Admission Prices:
| Time of Year | Adult Price | Child Price (3-12) |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Season (June 1 – August 31) | $39.95 | $29.95 |
| Off-Peak Season (September 1 – May 31) | $29.95 | $19.95 |
Discounted Admission
The National Aquarium offers discounted admission to certain groups and individuals. These groups include:
- Seniors (65+)
- Students (with valid ID)
- Children (3 and under)
- Members of the military (with valid ID)
- Visitors with disabilities
Discounted admission prices vary depending on the group and the time of year. For example, seniors can receive a discounted admission price of $24.95 during peak season, while children under 3 can visit for free.
Free Admission Options
While the National Aquarium does not offer completely free admission, there are several options available for those who want to visit for free or at a reduced cost. These options include: (See Also: Who Owns the Atlanta Aquarium? – Uncovering The Truth)
- Free admission on the first Sunday of every month (January – May)
- Free admission for children under 3
- Free admission for members of the military (with valid ID)
- Free admission for visitors with disabilities (with valid ID)
Additionally, the National Aquarium offers a “Free Admission Day” program, which provides free admission to visitors who meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements include:
- Income level: $25,000 or less per year
- Family size: 5 or more people
- Residency: Baltimore City or County
Visitors who meet these requirements can visit the National Aquarium for free on designated “Free Admission Day” dates.
Membership Options
The National Aquarium offers several membership options that can provide visitors with free or discounted admission to the aquarium. These membership options include:
Individual Membership
An individual membership to the National Aquarium provides visitors with:
- Free general admission for one year
- Discounted admission to special events and exhibits
- Invitations to exclusive member events
The cost of an individual membership varies depending on the level of membership chosen. For example, a basic individual membership costs $69 per year, while a premium individual membership costs $149 per year.
Family Membership
A family membership to the National Aquarium provides visitors with:
- Free general admission for two adults and up to four children (ages 3-12)
- Discounted admission to special events and exhibits
- Invitations to exclusive member events
The cost of a family membership varies depending on the level of membership chosen. For example, a basic family membership costs $129 per year, while a premium family membership costs $249 per year. (See Also: What Kills Beneficial Bacteria in Aquarium? Common Culprits Exposed)
Other Ways to Save
There are several other ways to save money when visiting the National Aquarium. These include:
Coupons and Discounts
The National Aquarium offers various coupons and discounts that can help visitors save money. These coupons and discounts can be found on the aquarium’s website, social media pages, and through local newspapers and flyers.
Coupons and Discounts:
- Online coupons: 10% off general admission
- Printable coupons: $5 off general admission
- Local newspaper coupons: $10 off general admission
Package Deals
The National Aquarium offers several package deals that can provide visitors with a discounted admission price. These package deals include:
- General admission and parking package: $49.95 per person
- General admission and meal package: $69.95 per person
- General admission and hotel package: $129.95 per person
Recap
In conclusion, while the National Aquarium does not offer completely free admission, there are several options available for those who want to visit for free or at a reduced cost. These options include discounted admission, free admission days, and membership programs. Additionally, visitors can save money by using coupons and discounts, purchasing package deals, and taking advantage of special promotions and events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the National Aquarium free on certain days of the year?
A: Yes, the National Aquarium offers free admission on the first Sunday of every month (January – May) and on designated “Free Admission Day” dates. Additionally, children under 3 can visit for free, and members of the military can receive free admission with valid ID. (See Also: How to Fix Aquarium Air Pump? Quick Troubleshooting Guide)
Q: Can I get a refund if I purchase a ticket and then decide not to visit the aquarium?
A: No, tickets are non-refundable. However, visitors can exchange their ticket for a different date or time if they need to reschedule their visit.
Q: Can I bring my pet to the aquarium?
A: No, pets are not allowed inside the aquarium, with the exception of service animals.
Q: Can I bring food and drinks into the aquarium?
A: No, food and drinks are not allowed inside the aquarium, with the exception of bottled water and baby food.
Q: Can I take photos inside the aquarium?
A: Yes, visitors are allowed to take photos inside the aquarium for personal use. However, commercial photography requires prior permission from the aquarium.