New England Aquarium

Pre-book admission tickets to enjoy skip-the-line entry, or opt for combination packages. These pair admission with movies at the Simons IMAX Theatre or whale-watching cruises to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. For a full experience, animal encounters offer guests the chance to meet and even make art with harbor seals under professional supervision.

If you’re sightseeing in Boston, consider investing in a Boston CityPASS, a Boston Explorer Pass, or a Go Boston Card, which offer discounted entrance to the aquarium and other attractions.

• The New England Aquarium is a must-see for families with kids.

• Large bags are not permitted inside the aquarium but storage lockers are available.

• The New England Aquarium is fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, and entrance is free for wheelchair users and visitors with visual impairments.

• The Harbor View Café is on Level 2 of the Aquarium.

The New England Aquarium overlooks the Boston Inner Harbor from its location on Central Wharf, off State Street and Atlantic Avenue. The aquarium is accessible via the MBTA subway, or the T, which has a stop on State Street.

The New England Aquarium is open daily all year round, although opening times vary throughout the year. The busiest time is during the middle of the day, so opt for an early morning or late afternoon visit to avoid the crowds.

The aquarium’s star attraction is the awesome 4-story, 200,000-gallon (760,000-liter) Giant Ocean Tank, a Caribbean coral reef swirling with sea turtles, sharks, cownose rays, eels, and exotic fish. Elsewhere, spot Atlantic harbor seals, California sea lions, penguins, and sea otters. Learn about conservation efforts at the Olympic Coast Exhibit; visit the Edge of the Sea touch tank; and discover fascinating exhibits such as Amazing Jellies and Science of Sharks.

Allow at least two hours to go through the New England Aquarium. You’ll need an additional 3-4 hours to take a whale-watching tour, and 35-45 minutes to watch an IMAX screening.

Yes, you can bring a small backpack to the New England Aquarium. However, bags larger than 12 inches by 12 inches by 12 inches (30 centimeters) are not allowed inside, with the exception of diaper bags and carriers for medical supplies.

No, booking tickets for the New England Aquarium in advance isn’t required. However, booking is highly recommended as the aquarium has a timed entry system, and availability for walk-up purchases isn’t guaranteed. Those arriving without reservations may find their preferred time slot sold out.

Yes, you can bring a camera and take pictures inside the New England Aquarium—the aquarium encourages sharing them on social media. However, tripods and stands are prohibited, and flash photography and flashlights are restricted in certain parts of the aquarium, as they can cause distress to animals.

Yes, if you have an errand to run or want to eat lunch off-site, you can leave the New England Aquarium and return on the same day. Just make sure to retain your ticket, as it’s valid for the full day of your visit.

The last timed entry to the New England Aquarium is 80 minutes before closing. Opening and closing times vary throughout the week and the year but are typically between 9am and 5pm or 6pm. Check the schedule on the aquarium website before planning your visit.