New York Aquarium Education Department
📍 Brooklyn, NY
NYC's sole aquarium on the Coney Island boardwalk, featuring sea otters, harbor seals, penguins, a giant Pacific octopus, California sea lion shows, and a Touch Tank. Both indoor and outdoor exhibits with multiple daily feeding demonstrations.
Newly renovated (with ongoing renovations) an amazing place to spend time with the family. Breathtaking new exhibits with spineless and sharks. The sea lion show was a crowd pleaser too. Very friendly staff and knowledgeable caretakers of the animals. We will be back next year.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children of all ages who want a full-day marine life experience with structured shows and hands-on animal encounters. Plan visits around feeding times for the most engagement. The Touch Tank is a strong hit with children under 8. On-site food is overpriced — pack snacks or eat at the nearby boardwalk before entry.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →274 Google reviews
Tracie Persun
4 years ago
“Newly renovated (with ongoing renovations) an amazing place to spend time with the family. Breathtaking new exhibits with spineless and sharks. The sea lion show was a crowd pleaser too. Very friendly staff and knowledgeable caretakers of the animals. We will be back next year.”
Cindy Moreno
2 years ago
“We enjoyed this aquarium. It is set up smartly with each building-based type of animal, reptile, etc. They offer many feeding times for the kids to watch the animals be fed. And a cool dolphin show. Plus a touch area for the kids.”
J “Sensei”
3 years ago
“Doing some renovations but that didn't take away from the experience. Eat lunch before you come unless you want to spend 15 dollars for a hotdog or hamburger. Kids enjoyed the live show.”
Nusrat Sharna
2 years ago
“Amazing place to spend a day off. Very close to the wildlife. Peaceful and satisfactory.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
The New York Aquarium features naturalistic exhibits across indoor and outdoor spaces, with highlights including California sea lion performances, close-access encounters with sea otters and penguins, and an interactive Touch Tank. The Education Department offers structured school programs, summer camps, family workshops, and birthday party packages. Multiple animal feeding sessions are scheduled throughout the day.
