So You Wanna See Some Fishie Friends? A Totally Unofficial Guide to the Boston Aquarium's Aquatic All-Stars
Let's face it, there's something undeniably fascinating about sticking your nose against the glass and watching creatures from the deep chill. But with all the tanks and exhibits at the Boston Aquarium, it can be tough to know where to start your underwater adventure. Fear not, fellow ocean enthusiast (or just someone who wants an escape from pigeon-watching in the park), this guide will navigate you through the best aquatic life the aquarium has to offer.
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| What Animals Are At The Boston Aquarium |
Big Stars, Little Tanks: Spotlight Species
- Myrtle the Green Sea Turtle: This isn't your average teenage mutant ninja turtle. Myrtle's a majestic green sea turtle who's been chilling at the aquarium since 1970. She's basically the aquarium's grandma, so be sure to show some respect (and maybe bring a birthday card, she seems like a shell-ebration kind of gal).
- The Dudes with the 'Staches: California Sea Lions. These goofy guys love to hang out, bark at the crowd, and occasionally launch themselves out of the water like furry torpedoes. Just be sure to keep your distance – you don't want to get splashed by a sea lion who forgot to use a napkin after lunch.
- The Tuxedoed Torpedoes: Sharks! No trip to an aquarium is complete without a face-to-face (well, more like face-to-acrylic) encounter with a shark. From the sleek and graceful sand tiger sharks to the more, ahem, "enthusiastic" zebra sharks, there's a whole jaw-some bunch to see.
Pro Tip: Don't tap on the glass! It might startle the fishies, and trust us, you don't want to get on the wrong side of a grumpy grouper.
Tip: Read mindfully — avoid distractions.
Beyond the Big Names: Hidden Gems of the Aquarium
- The Touch Tank: Not for the Faint of Heart (or with Germaphobe Tendencies). This interactive exhibit allows you to get up close and personal with some of the ocean's more tactile residents. Stroke a velvety smooth stingray or feel the bumpy texture of a sea star – just be sure to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards (because, ew, germs!).
- The Penguin Parade: Watch These Flightless Fashionistas Strut Their Stuff. These tuxedo-clad birds are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Waddle alongside them in their icy habitat and witness their hilarious attempts to fish (spoiler alert: they're not very good at it).
- The Weirder, the Wavier: The Edge of the Sea Touch Tank. This tank is home to some of the ocean's more peculiar creatures – think knobby sea cucumbers, bizarre-looking nudibranchs, and even horseshoe crabs (living fossils, people!). It's like an alien petting zoo, but way less slimy (hopefully).
Remember: The aquarium is a fantastic place to learn about the wonders of the ocean and the importance of conservation. So have fun, take pictures (but not with flash!), and maybe even get inspired to protect our amazing underwater world!
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
Frequently Asked Questions: Becoming an Aquarium Aficionado
How to get to the Boston Aquarium? Ahoy there, matey! The aquarium is located right on the Boston Harborwalk. You can set sail (a.k.a. take the T) to the Aquarium stop on the Blue Line, or walk the plank (a.k.a. walk) from Faneuil Hall.
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
How much does it cost to get in? Prices vary depending on the season and whether you want to add any special experiences, but you can check their website for the current rates. Just remember, it's an investment in aquatic education and entertainment (and Myrtle's gotta eat!).
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
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How long does it take to see the whole aquarium? Plan on spending at least a few hours to fully explore all the exhibits. There's so much to see, you might even need to take a break to nap with the sea lions (don't worry, we won't judge).
How to avoid crowds? The aquarium can get busy, especially during peak season. Try going early in the day or on weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
How to make the most of your visit? Download the aquarium's app for a map, interactive features, and even fun facts about the animals. Also, be sure to check out the daily feeding times and talks – they're a great way to learn more about the amazing creatures you'll encounter.
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