Disclosure: I received complimentary admission to Mystic Aquarium for this visit. As always, the views expressed are honest and entirely my own.
My 7-year old child loves learning about animals. When you ask him what he wants to be when he grows up, he'll say either a Zoologist or Marine Zoologist/ Biologist. He is fascinated and loves to learn about what makes a particular animal unique. So when we travel, our itinerary will always include a day or two spent towards his interests.
For our Memorial weekend getaway, my family took a short trip to Mystic, Connecticut and our 1st stop was to explore the Mystic Aquarium! We didn’t know prior to going but we were pleasantly surprised to know that Mystic Aquarium is one of only three facilities in the United States to care for Northern fur seals; and the only place in New England to host Beluga Whales!
Our favorites were seeing up-close the Beluga Whales, the African Penguins, and a gallery of Jellyfish; touching a Shark at Shark Encounter; and the Sealion show, which was not only entertaining but also educational. We learned a lot about Sea Lions, and Mystic Aquarium’s Rescue program, which has been rescuing and rehabilitating sick, injured and stranded marine animals along 1,000 miles of the Northeastern coastline; and then releasing them when they are healthy and able.
Apart from marine animals, you will also be happy to know that the Aquarium features a wonderful exhibit called "Jurassic Giants”, which is perfect for all the Dino-loving kiddos! It features 12 animatronic Dinosaurs, and some are life-sized.
Overall, we had a great time at Mystic Aquarium! There are so many fun activities and educational opportunities for families and kids of all ages. We enjoyed our time exploring this Aquarium and I think it's a must-do for families who vacation in Mystic.
MYSTIC AQUARIUM
55 Coogan Blvd. Mystic, CT 06355
Plan your next vacation now: https://www.mysticaquarium.org/
Here are some tips for a fun day!
1) Mystic Aquarium is one of the most popular places to visit in all of Connecticut, so it can get crowded. Come early preferably before the Aquarium opens. We arrived 15 minutes prior to opening and was able to find parking close to the entrance.
2) Buy your tickets online and save 15% off General Admission. If you are a tourist in the area and are also planning to visit Mystic Seaport Museum, definitely consider purchasing the combined ticket. Click here for my review of Mystic Seaport Museum.
3) Don't forget to wear sun protection or put on sunscreen to enjoy their outdoor exhibits longer.
4) Maximize your budget by having your admission ticketS validated before you leave the Aquarium. You can use it to return later in the day if you plan to go off-site for lunch, or the next day!
5. One of the 1st things you might want to do upon arrival is to take note of the showtimes for Sea Lions, and then plan your activities accordingly. It's included in your admission ticket, fun and educational, so you don't want to miss it!
