Mystic Aquarium

Mystic Aquarium is off I-95 exit 90 at 55 Coogan Blvd. The aquarium is home to more than 5,000 marine animals, including penguins, sharks, colorful reef fish, turtles, dart frogs, rare blue lobsters and beluga whales. Interactive hands-on exhibits allow visitors to touch a shark or cownose ray and feed a stingray. The Exploration: Wild exhibit explores ecosystems from around the world, offering a closer look at such environments as the wetlands, Arctic, desert and rainforest. Penguin and whale encounter programs are available.

The Foxwoods Marine Theater features playful California sea lions. This is one of four sites in North America housing Steller sea lions, the largest species of sea lion. The 44-seat 4-D Theater offers a state-of-the-art 3-D film with an interactive environment while the National Geographic Theater offers changing films.

Food is available. Time: Allow 2 hours minimum.