The world of aquariums is a fascinating and captivating one, offering a glimpse into the diverse and often breathtakingly beautiful world of marine life. For many of us, the idea of visiting an aquarium is a thrilling prospect, allowing us to get up close and personal with the creatures that inhabit our planet’s oceans. But for those who have never been to an aquarium before, the question of how much it costs to get in can be a daunting one. In this article, we’ll explore the various costs associated with visiting an aquarium, from general admission prices to special exhibits and behind-the-scenes tours.
General Admission Prices
The cost of general admission to an aquarium can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the aquarium. On average, general admission prices range from $15 to $30 per person, with some aquariums offering discounts for children, seniors, or military personnel. For example, the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California charges $49.95 for adults and $29.95 for children ages 3-12, while the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta charges $39.95 for adults and $29.95 for children ages 3-12.
| Aquarium | General Admission Price |
|---|---|
| Monterey Bay Aquarium | $49.95 (adults), $29.95 (children ages 3-12) |
| Georgia Aquarium | $39.95 (adults), $29.95 (children ages 3-12) |
| Shedd Aquarium | $39.95 (adults), $29.95 (children ages 3-12) |
| New England Aquarium | $27.95 (adults), $19.95 (children ages 3-11) |
Special Exhibits and Behind-the-Scenes Tours
In addition to general admission prices, many aquariums offer special exhibits and behind-the-scenes tours that can enhance the overall experience. These exhibits and tours can range in cost from $5 to $50 per person, depending on the aquarium and the type of exhibit or tour. For example, the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago offers a “Penguin Encounter” exhibit for $15 per person, while the New England Aquarium in Boston offers a “Behind-the-Scenes Tour” for $25 per person.
| Aquarium | Special Exhibit or Tour | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Shedd Aquarium | Penguin Encounter | $15 per person |
| New England Aquarium | Behind-the-Scenes Tour | $25 per person |
| Monterey Bay Aquarium | Sea Otter Encounter | $10 per person |
| Georgia Aquarium | Dolphin Encounter | $20 per person |
Discounts and Packages
Many aquariums offer discounts and packages that can help make the experience more affordable. For example, some aquariums offer discounts for students, seniors, or military personnel, while others offer package deals that include general admission and a special exhibit or tour. Some aquariums also offer membership programs that can provide unlimited admission and other perks. For example, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a “Family Membership” for $149 per year, which includes unlimited admission for two adults and up to four children. (See Also: How to Do Aquarium Nails? Step-by-Step Guide)
| Aquarium | Discount or Package | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Monterey Bay Aquarium | Family Membership | $149 per year |
| Georgia Aquarium | Student Discount | $29.95 (with valid student ID) |
| New England Aquarium | Senior Discount | $24.95 (with valid senior ID) |
| Shedd Aquarium | Package Deal (general admission and Penguin Encounter) | $40 per person |
Recap
In conclusion, the cost of getting into an aquarium can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the aquarium, as well as the type of exhibits and tours you want to experience. While general admission prices can range from $15 to $30 per person, special exhibits and behind-the-scenes tours can add an additional $5 to $50 per person to the cost. However, many aquariums offer discounts and packages that can help make the experience more affordable. By planning ahead and taking advantage of these discounts and packages, you can make the most of your aquarium visit and create a memorable experience for you and your family.
FAQs
Q: What is the average cost of general admission to an aquarium?
A: The average cost of general admission to an aquarium is around $20 to $25 per person.
Q: Do aquariums offer discounts for students, seniors, or military personnel?
A: Yes, many aquariums offer discounts for students, seniors, or military personnel. It’s best to check with the aquarium directly for their specific policies and discounts. (See Also: How Big Is Atlanta Aquarium? A Surprising Fact)
Q: Can I purchase a membership to an aquarium?
A: Yes, many aquariums offer membership programs that provide unlimited admission and other perks. Membership prices vary depending on the aquarium and the type of membership.
Q: Are special exhibits and behind-the-scenes tours worth the extra cost?
A: Yes, special exhibits and behind-the-scenes tours can be a great way to enhance your aquarium experience and get up close and personal with the marine life. Whether or not they are worth the extra cost depends on your personal preferences and interests.
(See Also: What Causes Kh to Drop in Aquarium? Common Reasons Revealed)Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks into the aquarium?
A: It’s best to check with the aquarium directly for their policies on outside food and drinks. Some aquariums may allow you to bring your own food and drinks, while others may have specific rules or restrictions.