The Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, Connecticut is unlike any other aquarium you’ve ever been to. Featuring exciting indoor and outdoor exhibits, numerous shows, and a movie theater, this aquarium isn’t just a popular attraction for kids. While it is child-friendly, it also offers adults plenty of opportunities to learn something new about the deep blue sea.
The Mystic Aquarium: What You Need to Know
1. The Aquarium’s Beluga Whales are the only ones you’ll find in New England
The Beluga Whales’ exhibit is one of the most special Mystic Aquarium exhibits. Not only does it house New England’s only Beluga Whales, the exhibit itself is one of the largest exhibits of its kind in the United States.
2. The Mystic Aquarium is one of three facilities in the nation that have Steller sea lions
The Steller sea lions are a near threatened species commonly found in the northern Pacific. Due to their unexplained declines in Alaska, these sea lions are now heavily protected.
You can see these sea lions up close by attending one of the sea lion shows! These shows are an audience favorite at the Mystic Aquarium.
The shows are held several times a day everyday from the end of June through September. The times are subject to change so please check the website for the most current sea lion show times.
3. Feeding times at the Mystic Aquarium are exciting for fish and humans alike
Have you ever witnessed a shark feeding frenzy? Now you can when you visit the Mystic Aquarium. Feeding times for the sharks and the stingrays typically take place on the weekends, make sure to look at the website for updated feeding times.
4. The Mystic Aquarium is also home to a large colony of African Penguins
Here’s your chance to view more than 28 adorable penguins up close. This exhibit features above and below viewing opportunities for visitors. The African penguins are special to the aquarium because the species is at risk to go extinct in our lifetime. In fact, the species has declined by more than 60% in the last ten years.
Where To Stay When You Visit The Mystic Aquarium
There are six Select Registry inns near the Mystic Aquarium. All of these properties have passed a rigorous quality assurance test to make sure they are exceptional.
Stay On Connecticut’s Scenic Shoreline
An award-winning option is the scenic Inn at Harbor Hill Marina in Niantic, Connecticut. Niantic is a quiet seaside village with a lovely marina, where you’ll find 16 elegant rooms, colorful gardens, and no shortage of marina views at this inn.
Retire In Connecticut’s Countryside
Seeking several acres of lush lawns and gardens? Book a stay at the delightful Stonecroft Country Inn Bed and Breakfast, a few miles from Mystic in Ledyard, Connecticut. Offering 10 rooms in the quiet Connecticut countryside, guests at this inn begin each morning with a mouthwatering, full country breakfast.
Photo credit: Luna Vandoome / Adobe Image
