About National Aquarium
National Aquarium: A World-Class Destination for Marine Life Enthusiasts
The National Aquarium is a world-renowned destination that offers visitors an opportunity to explore the wonders of marine life. Located in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, this award-winning aquarium is home to over 20,000 animals from more than 800 species. With its state-of-the-art exhibits and educational programs, the National Aquarium provides a unique and unforgettable experience for people of all ages.
History
The National Aquarium was founded in 1981 by a group of local business leaders who wanted to create an attraction that would draw tourists to Baltimore's Inner Harbor. The aquarium opened its doors in August 1981 with just two buildings and a handful of exhibits. Since then, it has grown into one of the largest and most respected aquariums in the world.
Exhibits
The National Aquarium features several award-winning exhibits that showcase different aspects of marine life. One of the most popular exhibits is Blacktip Reef, which features a stunning coral reef ecosystem complete with sharks, rays, and other colorful fish. Visitors can also explore Dolphin Discovery, where they can watch Atlantic bottlenose dolphins perform acrobatic feats.
Another must-see exhibit is Jellies Invasion: Oceans Out Of Balance which showcases mesmerizing jellyfishes from around the world including moon jellies and blue blubber jellies among others.
For those interested in exploring deeper waters without getting wet there’s Shark Alley where visitors can see sand tiger sharks swimming overhead through an acrylic tunnel or walk through Pacific Coral Reef exhibit featuring over 5000 animals including sea turtles & stingrays.
Education Programs
In addition to its impressive collection of marine life exhibits, The National Aquarium also offers educational programs designed for people of all ages. These programs include interactive tours led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into various aspects of marine biology such as conservation efforts or animal behavior patterns.
For children aged between three months old up until five years old there’s Aqua Tots program which includes storytime sessions followed by hands-on activities like crafts or games related to aquatic creatures while older kids aged between six years old up until twelve years old can participate in Aqua Camps where they get hands-on experience with scientific experiments related to oceanography & ecology among others.
Conservation Efforts
As part of its commitment towards conservation efforts The National Aquarium has taken several initiatives aimed at protecting endangered species such as sea turtles & sharks among others while also promoting sustainable fishing practices worldwide through partnerships with organizations like Seafood Watch Program run by Monterey Bay Aquarium Foundation based out California USA .
Conclusion
In conclusion , The National Aquarium is truly one-of-a-kind destination that offers visitors an opportunity to explore some amazing underwater worlds filled with fascinating creatures from around the globe . With its state-of-the-art facilities , educational programs , conservation efforts & award-winning exhibitions it’s no wonder why this place attracts millions every year making it one top tourist attractions not only within Maryland but across United States too!
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