Connecticut’s Mystic Aquarium is a destination that cannot be missed by those who admire marine life. A variety of aquatic creatures, such as the rare Steller sea lions, inhabit this place, and it is one of the state’s largest aquariums.
The research at this facility and its exhibits have captivated over 700,000 people annually, providing them with an immersive experience.
What is Mystic Aquarium?
Mystic Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums based in Connecticut and features a wide variety of fish along with other sea animals such as sea lions.
| Best Time to Visit | January – March |
| Suggested Visit Duration | At least two to three hours |
| Visiting Hours | Monday – Sunday: 10:00 a.m., Last Entry: 4:00 p.m. (Timings are subject to change without any notice) |
| Ticket Prices | Starting from $35 for adults |
| Specialty | Home to more than 4000 species, the only terrarium with titanic exhibits and 6 of its unique beluga whales. |
| Address | 55 Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT 06355, USA (View on Maps) |
| Contact Number(s) | +1 860-572-5955 |
What is the History of Mystic Aquarium?
The Institute of Exploration, a nonprofit institution dedicated to ocean exploration and preservation, served as the forerunner to the Mystic Aquarium when it was first established in 1973.
Dr. Robert Ballard, well-recognized for recovering the Titanic debris, created the organization. The institute concentrated heavily on teaching and outreach while devoted to oceanic exploration and research.
The institution changed its name to the Mystic Sea Life Aquarium in 1985 and opened it to the public. It was refurbished and extended in 1995, and as a result, it is now one of New England’s largest vivariums.
The Mystic Aquarium is a pioneer in marine animal conservation and research and is home to nearly 4,000 animals.
Interesting Facts
- There are 6 Beluga whales at Mystic Aquarium, namely Juno, Natasha, Kela, and 3 more, consuming 45-80 pounds of food daily.
- This marine museum is one of the only two US facilities with Steller sea lions and only Beluga whales in New England.
- The vivarium offers various one-of-a-kind exhibitions you won’t find anywhere else, like the Titanic – 12,450 Feet Down exhibit, highlighting the technologies used to search the Titanic’s ruins.
- The Mystic Aquarium offers a 4D theater experience and a walkthrough with animatronic dinosaurs, giving a life-like experience equivalent to Jurassic Park.
- This terrarium has been featured in the movie ‘Mystic Pizza’ screened in 1988.
- This marine museum offers an experience of marine reality to its visitors. Participants in the Undersea Explorer VR experience lay in a pod and encounter a virtual reality environment. After donning a virtual reality headset, the participant can choose from themed worlds to explore.
Is Mystic Aquarium Admission Free?
The Mystic Aquarium offers free admission to special card holders or those who have availed themselves of their membership.
Here is how you can get free admission to this marine museum:
- CT and RI Snap EBT Discount: Visitors who have CT and RI SNAP EBT cards are eligible for general free admission for themselves with 3 additional guests. The visitors must have their SNAP card, matching ID, and admission ticket(s) while visiting.
- Mystic Aquarium Membership: By availing yourself of this marine museum’s membership, you can get a ticketless entry and free general admission for a year.
- Ocean Society Membership: By paying a $1000 donation to the vivarium, you can be eligible for a visit with up to 10 guests for shows, events, and much more.
- Animal Adoption Program: Through the animal adoption program, you can not only pet a favorite species of your choice but also avail of free admission to this marine museum.
What is the cost of tickets for Mystic Aquarium?
General Admission Tickets:
- Adults (age 18-64): $39.99
- Seniors (age 65+): $37.99
- Children (age 3-17): $29.99
- Children under 3: Free
Membership Tickets:
- Family membership: $225-$350 (depending on the level of membership)
- Individual membership: $95-$150 (depending on the level of membership)
Behind-the-Scenes Tours Tickets:
- Penguin Encounter: $75 per person
- Beluga Encounter: $200 per person
- Sea Lion Encounter: $75 per person
- Shark Encounter: $125 per person
Learning Programs Tickets:
- Marine Science Magnet High School (full-time students): Free
- Aquarium Adventures (ages 6-12): $50 per child per day
- Teen Programs (ages 13-18): $200-$800 per program (depending on the program)
The cost of educational programs, tours, and other activities at Connecticut’s Mystic Aquarium varies based on the package or particular program.
It is crucial to remember that costs and availability could fluctuate over time or depend on other elements.
The best way to get the most recent information on costs and availability is to visit this marine museum’s website or call them in advance. For more information and advance bookings, visit: the Mystic Aquarium ticket fare page.
Are Discounts available for Tickets at Mystic Aquarium?
All around the year, this marine museum provides a variety of discounts on entrance tickets. The following suggestions will help you cut costs when you visit this marine museum:
- Online Tickets: You can save up to 10% on regular admission by purchasing your tickets online.
- Military Discounts: Armed force members on active duty or who have retired are eligible for a discount on admission tickets when they present a valid military ID.
- Senior Discounts: Passengers 60 and over are eligible for a discount on admission.
- Discounts from AAA: With a current membership card, AAA members are eligible for a discount on admission tickets.
- Discounts for College Students: Students with a current student ID are eligible for a discount on admission tickets.
- Mystic Pass: The Mashantucket Pequot Museum, Mystic Aquarium, and Mystic Seaport Museum all offer discounted admission with the purchase of a Mystic Pass.
- Discounts for Groups: When tickets are ordered in advance, groups of 10 or more are eligible for a discount.
Are Gift Cards Available at Mystic Aquarium?
You can purchase a gift card for your loved ones at this marine museum or from Giftly, which can be used for admission, programs, purchases, or memberships.
What are the Animal Encounters at Mystic Aquarium?
Mystic Aquarium Connecticut is a mega hub of marine animals, each with its unique personality and characteristics. Visitors to the vivarium can see these animals up close and learn about their habitats, behaviors, and conservation status.
Whether you’re a fan of beluga whales, African penguins, or sharks, there’s something for everyone at this marine museum in Connecticut. Some of them are listed below:
1. Sea Lions of California Encounter
Another species that visitors to this marine museum in Connecticut shouldn’t miss is the California sea lion. These intelligent, agile critters are known to be playful.
A sizable outdoor exhibit with a pool and a rocky beach allows visitors to see the animals swim and play. Visitors can observe the sea lions swimming below the surface in the exhibit’s underwater viewing facilities.
2. Fish Encounters
The sawfish is a huge fish with a snout resembling a saw used to grab prey. A ray species known as a sawfish can reach lengths of up to 18 feet.
Electric eels, despite their name, are a type of fish that can deliver electrical shocks to knock down prey or protect themselves from predators. Electric eels can produce 600 volts of electricity, enough to stun a person.
Piranhas are a diminutive yet infamous fish renowned for their brutal nature and deadly fangs. Visitors to this place in Connecticut can view a variety of piranha species, including red-bellied and black piranhas.
3. Sea Jellies Encounter
The following are a few of the species of sea jellies you can see at this place in Connecticut:
a. Moon Jelly
One of the most widespread sea jellies is the moon jelly, distinguished by its translucent, bell-shaped body. These lovely critters can be seen in the moon jelly display at this marine museum in Connecticut.
b. Lion Jelly
The largest species of sea jelly is the lion’s mane jelly, which may reach a diameter of up to 8 feet. These enormous organisms are displayed in the lion’s mane jelly exhibit at the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut.
4. Starfish Encounter
- Sunflower Star: The sunflower star is one of the largest starfish species, with a maximum diameter of three feet. These magnificent species can be seen in the Pacific Northwest display at this marine museum in Connecticut.
- Poison Crown: The poisonous crown-of-thorns starfish is a species that can potentially seriously harm coral reefs. Visitors to this place, Connecticut, can discover more about how these critters affect coral reefs in the vivarium’s Coral Reef exhibit.
5. Sea Urchins Encounter
Purple sea urchins are widespread in rocky environments along the Pacific coast. The Pacific Northwest exhibit at this place, Connecticut, features these spiky invertebrates.
The Caribbean is home to the long-spined sea urchin, a species distinguished by its long spines. The Caribbean exhibit here in Connecticut features these unusual species.
6. Amphibians Encounter
Poison Dart Frogs: The poison dart frog of the amphibian species with the most vibrant colors, which you can view here.
These little, vividly colored frogs are native to Central and South America and have developed a reputation for their poisonous skin secretions that deter predators.
Axolotls: This place in Connecticut is home to the interesting axolotl type of amphibian. These unusual critters, which are indigenous to Mexico, are well-known for having the capacity to regrow lost limbs and other body parts.
Due to their exceptional regenerating capabilities, axolotls are frequently employed in scientific studies.
7. Reptiles Encounter
The American alligator is a colossal and stunning animal that you may view in Connecticut’s Mystic Aquarium. These animals may grow up to 14 feet long and are indigenous to the Southeast of the United States.
Together with these species, this place in Connecticut also offers a variety of other reptile species on display, including snakes, lizards, and tortoises.
The importance of these animals’ contributions to their ecosystems and the dangers that habitat loss, climate change, and other human activities pose to them is clear to vivarium visitors.
8. Crustaceans Encounter
The blue crab is one of the most well-known crustaceans you may see at this place in Connecticut. These animals are indigenous to North America’s Atlantic coast and are prized for their succulent meat and eye-catching blue coloring.
Several more crustacean species, such as crabs, shrimp, and lobsters, are also on display at this place in Connecticut in addition to these species.
The vivarium offers visitors the chance to learn about the significance of these creatures in marine ecosystems and the dangers that habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing pose to them.
9. Beluga Whales Encounter
The beluga whale is one of the most visited creatures at this marine museum in Connecticut. These lovely, inquisitive critters are renowned for their lively nature and striking white hue.
A sizable exhibit miming a beluga whale’s natural surroundings allows visitors to observe the animals swimming and interacting with one another. Visitors can look closely at the whales in the exhibit’s deep pool with underwater viewing spots.
10. African Penguins Encounter
The African penguin is another well-liked animal at this marine museum in Connecticut. The vivarium is home to a colony of these lovely birds, a threatened species.
Guests can see the penguins swimming in their pool and stroll around their display. Visitors can also observe the penguins above in the exhibit’s observation area.
11. Sharks Encounter
The Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut is home to various shark species, including sand tigers, nurse sharks, and blacktips.
Visitors may observe these magnificent beasts swimming at a sizable exhibit that includes a tunnel with 360-degree views of the sharks swimming overhead. Interactive displays that teach visitors about the behavior and anatomy of sharks are also included in the show.
12. Turtles Encounter
Green sea turtles, loggerhead sea turtles, and Kemp’s Ridley Sea turtles are just a few of the sea turtle species that may be found at this place in Connecticut.
Visitors can observe sea turtles swimming and having their sweet time in a sizable exhibit with various ecosystems, such as a coral reef and a mangrove forest.
Also, there are interactive exhibits that offer details on sea turtle conservation efforts and the dangers these species face in the wild.
What are the Exhibits at Mystic Aquarium?
Besides more than 4,000 aquatic creatures representing more than 300 species at this place in Connecticut, there are separate sessions of exhibits conducted daily at Mystic Aquarium.
1. Main Gallery
The indoor exhibit gallery is a hub for hundreds of unusual and colorful species, including habitats with pufferfish, sea snails, sharks, rays, and one of the most varied displays of jellies in the area. The centerpiece 35,000-gallon exhibit features eels, tangs, and many more!
The Huge Pacific Octopus, Giant Japanese Spider Crabs, and a live coral reef ecosystem are just a few of the weird and wonderful species on display at the Strange and Wonderful exhibition.
2. Ocean Solutions
Ocean solutions is an initiative by the team of Mystic Aquarium to teach their visitors about marine and freshwater life very subtly. Under this exhibit, visitors can experience and explore the interconnected biosphere concerning marine fauna. The exhibits also allow the visitors to take a leap and understand how crucial marine ecosystem is for human existence.
a. Ocean Refuge
The visitors can explore the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument to glimpse its wonder. The monument, one of the world’s natural wonders, is situated 130 miles off the coast of Cape Cod.
This area, which is roughly the size of Connecticut, is renowned for its biodiversity, which includes long-lived deep-sea coral reefs, whales, dolphins, seabirds, and sea turtles, in addition to enormous predatory fish like tuna, billfish, swordfish, and sharks.
b. Ocean Energy
The Ocean Solutions exhibit showcases some of the efforts made by the authorities to protect our aquatic planet. The exhibit also showcases how we can harness energy from marine resources for a clean and green future to combat climate change.
3. Foxwoods Marine Theater
California sea lions from here are the highlight of Foxwoods Marine Theater. The sea lion show is the bestselling show among the exhibits as per the visitors.
The show timings are:
- Monday to Friday: 11:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m.
The Sea Lion Spotlight show gives an exclusive chance to their visitors to come on stage and interact with the sea lion. You can also get your picture clicked and take the picture as a souvenir.
If you want to prebook your tickets, click here.
4. Undersea Explorer
Undersea Explorer is a remarkable virtual reality ocean voyage that combines cutting-edge technology with exciting and instructive material to pique visitors’ curiosity.
You can enjoy top-notch CGI and cutting-edge motion platform technology while comfortably seated inside one of the four pods, providing the ideal viewing experience.
Also, you can get a chance to look at Humpbacks, Drift, Legends of Lusca, and shark dive.
Tickets can be purchased on the spot. However, having a membership will be of advantage.
Price: $ 9 per person (without membership) and $8 per person (with membership)
5. Interactives
At this place, children can get a one-on-one chance to interact with some unique benthic creatures from the bottom world.
- Ray Touch Pool: The session encompasses an interactive one on one with a cownose stingray where you can feed the stingray and even get a chance to touch a shark!
- Long Island: The Long Island is around an estuary where visitors can touch native invertebrates like scup, North American lobster, and many more species.
- Covanta Cove: This interactive session highlights how energy can be harnessed from marine debris.
6. Marsh Trek
The Marsh Trek is situated right in the center of this place, where visitors can experience freshwater species local to the region. The Marsh Trek encompasses scented pond lilies, broad-leaved cattail, floating pondweed, and climbing bittersweet.
Moreover, one can find animals like Mallard ducks, green herons, Bluegill, bass, and Eastern-painted turtles.
7. Seal Pup Playspace
The seal pup play space is an undersea-themed play space for children ages 2 to 5 who can enjoy and play around.
Want to explore more about this place? Click here now!
What are the Live Cams available at Mystic Aquarium?
This place also lets visitors view the animals virtually from anywhere. Two forecasts are available as live cams: Beluga whales and African Penguins.
What are the Learning Opportunities at Mystic Aquarium?
Here, online learning programs are an excellent method to study marine biology and conservation initiatives from anywhere in the world.
Participants can develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the ocean and its inhabitants by conversing with vivarium specialists and participating in participatory activities. Some learning initiatives are:
1. Virtual Education Conservation Program
Several online educational programs have been created by the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut so that people worldwide can learn about initiatives to save marine life and ocean ecosystems.
Participants can interact with vivarium professionals and learn about marine life through these programs without leaving their homes.
You can check the program details and cost by visiting their website.
2. Behind-The-Scenes Tours
The Behind-the-Scenes Tours offer a special chance for guests to peek into the vivarium’s operations.
Visitors can learn about the vivarium’s research and conservation initiatives by touring locations, including the animal care facility, kitchens, and laboratories.
3. Marine Biology Camps
The Mystic Aquarium offers summer camps for youngsters that give them an intense, hands-on experience with beginner marine biology.
With entertaining and interesting activities like animal encounters, crafts, and field trips, these programs are intended to teach kids about marine ecosystems and conservation initiatives.
4. Stem Workshops
Through engaging exercises and experiments, the STEM workshops at the vivarium aim to pique students’ interests in science, technology, engineering, and math.
These programs, led by knowledgeable educators and academics, include marine biology, oceanography, and conservation.
5. Professional Development Programs
The Mystic Aquarium also provides programs for educators and teachers to assist them in incorporating marine science into their lesson plans.
These programs address a variety of subjects, such as inquiry-based education, oceanography, and marine conservation.
What are the Events at Mystic Aquarium?
This place offers a variety of event rooms for different types of events, including weddings, business gatherings, birthday parties, and more. Decide what kind of event you want to host. Establish the type of event you want to host and the expected attendance.
Call the Mystic Aquarium’s events staff to discuss your event’s demands and specifications. You may reach them by phone at (860) 572-5955 ext. 520 or online via a contact form.
After speaking with the events team about your event’s demands, select an event space that suits your requirements. The Ocean Blue Banquet Hall, the Main Gallery, and the Marine Theater are just a few of here’s event spaces.
Catering and Event Planning: To assist you in organizing your event, the vivarium’s event team may offer catering and event planning services. They can assist you with menu preparation, flower design, entertainment, and other event-related requirements.
Finalize the Details: Collaborate with the event team to determine the date, time, number of attendees, and any other special requirements you may have for your event.
Enjoy Your Occasion: The vivarium events crew will be present on the day of your event to ensure everything goes as planned so you can relax and enjoy it.
1. Birthdays
Discovering Incredible Sharks, going on a Beluga Blast, participating in Penguin Palooza, or discovering what adventure awaits in the Suitcase of Surprises are all fun ways to celebrate your child’s special day. Your group can be entertained and educated by several program themes!
- Members of the Aquarium $375 for up to 25 guests
- $450 for up to 25 guests from non-members
The maximum number of attendees for the birthday celebration is 25. This includes all children & adults.
Pizza can be added to any gathering for an additional expense (an additional half-hour costs $25.00; cheese pizzas cost $12, and pepperoni pizzas cost $14).
Reservations must be made two weeks before, and full payment is expected. On the weekends, there are 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. or 1:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m.
2. Weddings
For weddings, there are three packages available.
Penguin Proposal
The most memorable and sought-after experiences here are a Penguin Encounter or Penguins up close, where you can propose to your significant other.
An endangered species recognized for its attractive characteristics is the African penguin. Before you say, “I do,” one of our penguin trainers will lead you through our heartwarming, interactive interactions.
Beluga Whale Proposal
Join the gorgeous beluga whales in celebrating your special occasion. During your private Beluga Encounter, a trainer will teach you everything there is to know about these wonderful animals.
Invite up to four other friends to partake in your once-in-a-lifetime, hands-on experience.
Underwater Proposal
Make your lover feel special by proposing underwater. In one of our breathtaking interior shows, a diver will materialize and expose a sign that reads, “Anything your heart wishes.”
To ensure that this occasion is everything you’ve imagined, we have a range of signs you may choose from or build your own. The big event will undoubtedly be remembered thanks to this original, surprising, and thoughtful proposal.
What are the Dining Options at the Mystic Aquarium?
You can dine at Penguins Café inside the Mystic Aquarium. The menu has great snacking items, including mouth-watering burgers, fries, and award-winning chowder.
If you are gluten-conscious, Penguins Café won’t disappoint you, as they have gluten-free options too!
Is there a Gift Shop at Mystic Aquarium?
You can find one-of-a-kind artwork from Belugas and African Penguins at this place’s gift shops. You can also get books, jewelry, and apparel. Hand-blown glass items, plushies, and many cutesy gift items for your children.
There is a wide range of variety available for the merchandise. Some of the best-selling and liked items are the adult long-sleeve beluga tee and the adult short-sleeve beluga tee.
You can also shop for sustainable gift items like reusable cutleries, earrings, and keychains.
To shop this place’s merchandise, click here.
Aquarium Map
This place is spread over 11 hectares of land, having a saltwater café in the center at the main outdoor plaza.
For more detailed segregation of locations, click here.
How to Reach Mystic Aquarium?
There are various modes to reach here as it is a landlocked location and accessible from the nearby cities; you visit here-
What are the Directions of Mystic Aquarium?
How to reach Mystic Aquarium by car?
If you are driving, this vivarium is easily accessible from major highways such as I-95 and I-395. The address for the vivarium is 55 Coogan Boulevard, Mystic, CT 06355. There is ample parking available on-site.
How to reach Mystic Aquarium by train?
If you are traveling by train, the closest Amtrak station is New London, which is about a 15-minute drive from this vivarium. You can take a taxi or rideshare service from the station to the vivarium.
How to reach Mystic Aquarium by bus?
Several bus companies provide transportation to Mystic, including Greyhound and Peter Pan Bus Lines. From the bus station in downtown Mystic, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to the vivarium.
How to reach Mystic Aquarium by air?
If you are flying in, the closest airport is T.F. Green Airport in Providence, Rhode Island, about a 45-minute drive from Mystic Aquarium. Bradley International Airport in Hartford, Connecticut, is also an option, but it is about a 90-minute drive from Mystic.
Is there Parking Available at Mystic Aquarium?
There are more than 550 spots available for parking in this place. If you are a member or a visitor, you can park around the north parking lot or the northern end of the south parking lot.
There is no parking fee charged here. Visitors to downtown Mystic may only park for a fee in the South Lot’s southern half.
One can also park outside the vivarium in the lot area. However, if the lot is unavailable, you can also park at the sides of the vivarium.
The lot generally gets occupied at the peak hours of the afternoon. We advise you to come early as parking is free of cost, and you can park your vehicle at your desired spot.
What are the Hotels Near Mystic Aquarium?
If you are planning a stay in Connecticut, then these are hotels very close to destinations with luxurious lodging facilities:
Hilton Mystic
Distance: 0.2 mi
The Hilton Mystic is an all-inclusive hotel only a short drive from Connecticut’s Mystic Aquarium. An indoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant are just a few of the hotel’s attractions.
The rooms are cozy and pleasant, with roomy furnishings, flat-screen TVs, and high-speed internet access. The hotel additionally provides a free shuttle service to the vivarium.
Hyatt Place Mystic
Distance: 0.6 mi
Visitors to the region might choose Hyatt Place Mystic as another excellent alternative.
This contemporary hotel offers various services, such as an indoor pool, a fitness center, free breakfast, and roomy accommodations with separate living quarters.
A 24-hour store and a bar that serves light fare are further fixtures of the hotel.
The Inn at Mystic
Distance: 2.2 mi
The Inn at Mystic, a quaint option beside the vivarium, is a great choice for a more private and historical experience. A selection of guest rooms and suites are available at the inn, each with a distinctive design and amenities.
An outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a restaurant serving fresh seafood and other regional fare are among the additional on-site amenities the inn provides.
Hampton Inn & Suites Mystic
Distance: 0.7 mi
Families and groups visiting the area frequently stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites Mystic. The hotel offers various services, including a health center, indoor pool, and free breakfast, in addition to its roomy suites and rooms.
The hotel also provides business visitors with a 24-hour business center and meeting spaces.
Residence Inn Mystic Groton
Distance: 1.4 mi
If you’re seeking a place to stay for a while in the neighborhood, the Residence Inn Mystic Groton is a fantastic choice. Flat-screen TVs, separate living rooms, and roomy apartments with full kitchens are available at the hotel.
Together with a variety of features like an outdoor pool, exercise center, and BBQ area, the hotel also provides a free breakfast.
What are the Restaurants Near Mystic Aquarium?
Mystic Aquarium has a very warm dining area for visitors; however, if someone wants to explore, then here are your options:
The Engine Room
Distance: 1.8 mi
The Engine Room is a well-known gastropub serving various delectable pub fare and is conveniently located near the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut.
A range of craft beers is available on a rotating basis, along with various burgers, sandwiches, and small plates.
Oyster Club
Distance: 2.1 mi
Oyster Club is a must-visit location for seafood enthusiasts. This well-known eatery, situated in the heart of Mystic, is known for its menu, which contains some of the area’s finest fresh seafood.
You can anticipate finding meals like clam chowder, lobster rolls, and oysters on the half shell, while the menu frequently changes depending on the season and the availability of ingredients.
S&P Oyster Co.
Distance: 1.8 mi
S&P Oyster Co., another fantastic seafood restaurant, is situated directly on the water in the heart of Mystic. As well as some non-seafood choices, including steak and spaghetti, the restaurant’s menu offers a selection of seafood meals.
The outside patio is ideal for a group gathering or a romantic dinner because it provides breathtaking views of the Mystic River.
Rise
Distance: 2.1 mi
Rise is a terrific choice for a quick and delectable breakfast or lunch. This small cafe serves various fresh and healthful cuisine and is only a short drive from Connecticut’s Mystic Aquarium.
Avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, salads, and a selection of coffee and tea beverages are all offered on the menu. The cafe also provides a variety of pastries and baked items.
Mystic Pizza
Distance: 0.8 mi
You won’t want to miss a trip to the eatery that served as the model for the whole film, “Mystic Pizza,” if you’re a fan of the famous 1988 film. In the heart of Mystic, Mystic Pizza is a well-known pizzeria that offers mouthwatering pies with various toppings.
Pasta and sandwiches are just a couple of the restaurant’s numerous Italian American meals.
What are the Attractions Near Mystic Aquarium?
If you are planning to cover several places around Mystic Aquarium, then the following are the sites you must check out:
Mystic Seaport Museum
Distance: 1.3 mi
Just a short drive from Mystic Aquarium, Connecticut, is the Mystic Seaport Museum, which offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s seafaring history.
The museum features a working shipyard, a historic village, and a collection of more than 500 historic watercraft, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and anyone interested in the maritime heritage of New England.
Olde Mistick Village
Distance: 0.3 mi
If you are looking for a unique shopping experience, Olde Mistick Village is the place to go. This charming shopping district features over 40 shops and restaurants, offering everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to locally sourced food and drink.
The village is also home to several galleries and museums, making it a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon.
Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
Distance: 1.4 mi
The Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the natural world. This 300-acre preserve features miles of hiking trails, as well as a variety of educational exhibits and programs.
Visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the history and ecology of the region.
Stonington Vineyards
Distance: 6.5 mi
If you are a wine lover, then be sure to visit the Stonington Vineyards, which is located just a few miles from Mystic Aquarium, Connecticut.
This picturesque vineyard features over 10 acres of grape vines, producing various award-winning wines. Visitors can tour the vineyard, sample the wines, and even enjoy a picnic on the grounds.
Watch Hill, Rhode Island
Distance: 13.7 mi
Just a short drive across the state line is the charming seaside town of Watch Hill, Rhode Island. This breathtaking town features beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, explore the local lighthouses, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
Foxwoods Resort Casino
Distance: 8.6 mi
Foxwoods Resort Casino is a nearby destination for anyone looking for entertainment. These massive complex features more than 5,500 slot machines, 350 table games, and a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops.
The casino also hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.
What are the Working Options at the Mystic Aquarium?
Apart from being a popular tourist destination, Connecticut’s Mystic Aquarium is a hub for scientific study and environmental protection.
A group of committed scientists and researchers at the vivarium undertakes research and studies that advance our knowledge of marine life and support conservation initiatives. Some of the research opportunities at Mystic Aquarium include the following:
1. Maritime Animal Rescue Program
The Mystic Aquarium’s Marine Animal Rescue Program allows researchers and scientists to learn more about marine animals’ physiology, behavior, and health.
The program’s main objective is to rescue and care for stranded marine species, including seals, sea turtles, and whales, so they can eventually return to the wild.
2. Research on Fish and Invertebrates
The vivarium’s Fish and Invertebrate Research program examines marine fish and invertebrates’ physiology, ecology, and behavior.
Almost 300 different kinds of fish and invertebrates make up the vivarium’s unique collection of marine animals, which researchers can use to study behavior, reproduction, and disease issues.
3. Ocean Exploration
The Ocean Exploration program at the vivarium is dedicated to discovering and learning about deep-sea environments and living organisms.
Researchers can accompany the team on deep-sea missions to study and gather samples of deep-sea species and learn about the special adaptations that allow them to live in such harsh surroundings.
4. Research on Conservation
The Mystic Aquarium is dedicated to advancing conservation efforts and carries out studies to comprehend the effects of human activities on marine ecosystems and create plans for their protection.
Studies can be conducted on climate change, marine pollution, and ethical fishing methods.
5. Education and Outreach
The vivarium’s Education and Outreach program allows researchers to share their in-depth subject knowledge with the general public through seminars, talks, and exhibitions.
Researchers can collaborate with the aquarium’s educators to create educational resources and initiatives that support marine conservation and motivate the upcoming generation of marine scientists.
Does Mystic Aquarium accept donations?
Suppose you would like to make donations to the organization for the welfare and development of the research facilities. In that case, you can contribute to the growth of Mystic aquarium by going to their donation portal.
What are the Reviews of Mystic Aquarium?
“Clean environment. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers.”: Kelly (Tripadvisor)
The vivarium has received mostly excellent reviews, with many visitors applauding the diversity of exhibits and the helpful and kind staff. There is a great sense of pleasure and excitement at the vivarium.
According to several reviews, the aquarium can get crowded, and parking can be difficult, especially on weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Mystic Aquarium?
Mystic Aquarium is a non-profit organization located in Connecticut, USA. The place is located in the southernmost state in the New England region of the Northeast USA.
The organization is located near Mystic River and is home to more than 4000 species of benthic and amphibian local and foreign creatures.
Is Mystic Aquarium entry free?
No, one has to buy a ticket before entering the vivarium. Though, one can avail of several discounts and promotions on their website. All you have to do is to become a member and have free admission for a full year.
There are discounts for US militants who can visit ‘complementary’ by presenting the necessary proof.
How much are the tickets for Mystic Aquarium?
The ticket price is $25 for children under 12 to $29 for teenagers under 17. Those above 18 have to buy an adult ticket for $35. Having the freedom to visit without making reservations is one of the many benefits of a Mystic Aquarium membership!
With your current membership card, just approach the door, and they will scan it to provide access.
How big is Mystic Aquarium?
The aquarium is spread over 11 hectares and is home to the largest facility for captive beluga whales in Connecticut’s Mystic Aquarium.
Three of the 30 belugas kept as pets in the country are housed in the aquarium’s 4,000 square meters outdoor exhibit, dominated by 50 a 25-meter kidney-shaped tank.
How long to spend at the Mystic Aquarium?
Whether you watch the shows and feedings will depend. Depending on the child’s interest, anything from 1 hour and 2 1/2 hours. Shows might last an hour, so it would roughly take 2-3 hours of your entire day on average.
Where to park at Mystic Aquarium?
There are several spots to park. Apart from the parking area provided by the vivarium, you can park at Valenti Ford or Residence INN Mystic Groton, which is only 12- 15 minutes away.
How much is parking for Mystic Aquarium?
Parking is free at the aquarium.
Is the Mystic Aquarium worth it?
Mystic Aquarium is a perfect spot for a day trip. It houses the only beluga whales in New England and is one of just two American facilities where Steller sea lions are kept.
A touch pool with rays and sharks, an exhibit of African penguins, a gallery of jellies, and the “Jurassic Giants” dinosaur exhibit are just a few of the special attractions.
Other Nearby Aquariums
A word from FishInAquarium
We hope we answered everything you needed to know. The mystic aquarium is a gateway to the marine world. Visitors to the vivarium can see these animals up close and learn about their habitats, behaviors, and conservation status.
Also, if you want to do something in marine biology, this place has several options for you to shine as a researcher. If you like this guide, don’t forget to share it with your friends!
