Boston: New England Aquarium Entry + Optional Simons Theatre

Boston Waterfront, Boston



Skip the line at the New England Aquarium to see seals, stingrays, sharks, and penguins. Opt for a combo ticket to enjoy a film at the Simons Theatre for an immersive ocean adventure.

New England Aquarium Admission in Boston

Experience skip-the-line entry to the New England Aquarium in Boston, ideal for marine life enthusiasts and families.

Highlights

  • See African penguins, a species the Aquarium breeds to support conservation efforts
  • Watch the behavior of California sea lions in an open-air exhibit
  • Discover piranhas and anacondas in the Amazon Rainforest exhibit
  • Simons Theatre Combo: Watch immersive films on a giant five-story screen

Description

Visit the New England Aquarium to encounter over 800 marine animals, including seals, stingrays, sharks, and penguins. Begin at the active penguin colony, then explore the four-story Caribbean coral reef inside the Giant Ocean Tank, home to sea turtles, moray eels, and tropical fish. The spiral walkway provides 360-degree views of this ecosystem. Additional exhibits highlight Pacific reef fish and playful California sea lions.

Opt for the combo ticket to gain skip-the-line admission plus access to the Simons Theatre, where you select from current films on the day of your visit. Films include Call of the Dolphins 3D, Shark Kingdom, and Secrets of the Sea, each providing a unique exploration of ocean life.

Exhibits Included

  • Atlantic Harbor Seals: Observe two harbor seal families in a 42,000-gallon open-air exhibit on the Front Plaza, with free daily training sessions.
  • Yawkey Coral Reef Center: View Caribbean coral reef species such as dwarf seahorses, endangered staghorn coral, and garden eels.
  • The Giant Ocean Tank: A 200,000-gallon, four-story coral reef tank featuring sea turtles, stingrays, eels, and hundreds of fish.
  • Indo-Pacific Coral Reef: Floor-to-ceiling displays showcasing diverse species from Indo-Pacific reefs including fish, sea turtles, and sharks.
  • Marine Mammal Center: Watch California sea lions swimming and learn about conservation efforts.
  • Penguins: Over 50 African penguins participate in a Species Survival Plan and educational programs.

Simons Theatre Film Options (Combo Ticket Only)

  • Call of the Dolphins 3D (45 min): Explore wild dolphins' behavior and conservation. Showtimes: 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM
  • Shark Kingdom 2D (45 min): Follow shark researchers working to protect shark populations. Showtimes: 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 5:00 PM
  • Secrets of the Sea 2D (45 min): Learn about unique ocean creatures and marine biodiversity. Showtime: 3:00 PM

Includes

  • Skip-the-line entry ticket to the New England Aquarium

Excludes

  • Food and drinks
  • Transportation

Important Information

  • Children aged 2 and under enter free but require a timed entry ticket

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, arrive early to explore exhibits at a relaxed pace. Select your preferred film and showtime at the will-call window upon arrival. Consider bringing comfortable walking shoes and a camera to capture marine life.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can see over 800 marine animals including African penguins, California sea lions, stingrays, sharks, and the four-story Caribbean coral reef tank.
Yes, booking in advance allows you to skip the general admission line at the New England Aquarium in Boston.
The Simons Theatre experience is optional and can be added to your New England Aquarium ticket for a combined visit.
The Simons Theatre features a giant, five-story-high screen showing immersive marine-themed films.
The New England Aquarium is located on Boston's Central Wharf, along the city's waterfront.
A typical visit lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how long you spend at each exhibit and the optional Simons Theatre.
Yes, the aquarium includes interactive touch tanks and educational exhibits throughout the facility.
Most ticket providers accept mobile tickets, but check your booking details for specific entry requirements.
Visiting on weekdays outside of school holidays often means fewer crowds at the Boston aquarium.
Yes, the New England Aquarium offers accessibility features including wheelchair access and services for guests with disabilities.

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