Coney Island brings people in with it’s freak shows, scenic views, and carnival rides. It’s also home of the New York Aquarium, which is a ridiculously overpriced way to spend two hours. I recently spent the day there with my SO, as they recently introduced a new exhibit, Ocean Wonders: Sharks! I have been a die hard fan of sharks since my youth, and I couldn’t resist from going. They feature eighteen different kinds of sharks (although I definitely did not see that many) with an indoor walk through experience. This is a welcome difference from the blazing sun outdoors, as many of the animals are outdoors (specifically the large mammals like sea lions, penguins, etc).
Squinting from the sun but still having fun!
There were about twelve different tanks, all spread out along a very creative, maze like path. Going on a Saturday, there were an abundance of kids running around – it seemed like a safe place to bring your family.
Towards the end of the exhibit, there was a very large tank that held the larger sharks. In front an amphitheater welcomed visitors into sitting down to listen in to employees explain the different types of creatures inside. They also held shows during feeding time so you could watch exactly how the animals eat. While we were there, we watched a giant manta ray of around ten feet be given his lunch.
In front of the amphitheater having the time of my life.
Perhaps the most extraordinary part of Sharks! were the sections that spoke to ocean pollution. Carefully crafted, it made learning about a serious, complex issue fun and easy for kids. There was an interactive “stomp out the pollution” bit and a projector that created the illusion of garbage floating in the fish tanks. There was a lot more but it’s much more fun to see yourself than to read about online.
The ceiling in the pollution room.
Overall, I think that the aquarium would be worth it once the renovations are complete. While visiting, a few sections of the aquarium were closed and the animals were housed elsewhere. I would argue that about 40% was out of commission. Some of the exhibits’ animals have been rehoused (i.e. a sea turtle tank was improvised elsewhere) but many you simply do not get to enjoy. This aquarium also features a rooftop bar with stunning views of the beach and the piers – so anyone feeling cranky should just head up and kick back. Bonus – there’s a touch pool right at the top with a line long enough to keep your kids out of your face for a few minutes.
Alexander on our way to the rooftop bar
Enjoy!
-Louise
J Louise Hoggan 