The South Carolina Aquarium houses a diverse range of more than ten thousand plants and animals. Visitors can expect to see a variety of species including North American river otters, loggerhead sea turtles, alligators, great blue herons, owls, lined seahorses, jellyfish, pufferfish, green moray eels, horseshoe crabs, sea stars, pythons, and sharks. This wide array of flora and fauna provides an enriching experience for all visitors.
The Great Ocean Tank is the largest exhibit in the South Carolina Aquarium. This tank, which is the deepest in North America at 42 feet, extends from the first to the third floor of the Aquarium. It holds more than 385,000 US gallons (1,460,000 L) of water and is home to over 700 animals. This exhibit offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe a wide variety of marine life in a large-scale environment.
The South Carolina Aquarium also features a Touch Tank, where visitors have the opportunity to interact directly with marine animals such as horseshoe crabs and Atlantic stingrays. This hands-on experience allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of these creatures, making it a popular feature of the Aquarium.
Since its opening in 2000, the South Carolina Aquarium has been actively involved in the rehabilitation and release of over 250 sea turtles. This conservation effort is a testament to the Aquarium's commitment to preserving marine life and provides an educational experience for visitors about the importance of conservation.
Nature & Natural History Animals Aquarium Zoo
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Monday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
December 24: 9 a.m.–noon
100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston
No exhibitions in South Carolina Aquarium have been found.
South Carolina Aquarium has 1 rating.
The South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston offers visitors an engaging experience with marine life. The aquarium features a diverse collection of aquatic species, with exhibits showcasing both local and exotic marine ecosystems. Visitors often appreciate the well-maintained tanks and the variety of fish, reptiles, and other sea creatures on display. The touch tank, where guests can interact with certain marine animals, is frequently mentioned as a highlight, especially for children.
The aquarium's efforts in conservation and education are notable, with informative displays and knowledgeable staff members available to answer questions. The sea turtle hospital and rehabilitation center receive positive attention for their important work in protecting endangered species.
While many visitors find the aquarium enjoyable, some feel that it is smaller compared to aquariums in larger cities and that the admission price is a bit high for the size. The layout of the aquarium, which includes multiple floors connected by a central atrium, is generally praised for its design but can get crowded during peak times.
Overall, the South Carolina Aquarium provides a good blend of entertainment and education, making it a solid choice for families and marine life enthusiasts visiting Charleston. However, visitors should be prepared for potentially large crowds and consider the value for money based on their expectations.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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