by Lynette Alice

Created on: August 08, 2008   Last Updated: September 05, 2009

A visit to the New England Aquarium in Boston is always a treat. I paid my first visit there some twenty five years ago or so and to this day it is still on the annual to do list, the only difference is now I'm the grown up taking my child. Age hasn't diminished my fascination and love affair with this aquarium, young or old this is one of the best attractions in the city, especially for families.

Opened in 1969 at the Central Wharf, the Aquarium has steadily grown and improved. Lines outside can be long but they do move pretty quick and the short wait is well worth it. Adult admission is about $20.00 and children under eleven get in for $10.00, excluding three year olds and under whom are admitted free. All major credit cards are accepted and hours vary depending on the season, but it is open every day except Christmas and Thanksgiving. Imax format movies focusing on underwater life are shown and can be seen for an additional fee of $8.00 to $10.00 for non-members. Group pricing (10 or more people) and combination tickets are available so if you have a group or plan to do everything offered be sure to ask about this. Tickets may also be purchased in advance on-line. The aquarium is handicap accessible and outfitted to serve the hearing and visually impaired.

With the details out of the way the first thing you will notice a monstrous 150,000 gallon giant ocean tank outfitted with a coral reef and more critters than you can shake a stick at. A staircase winds it's way around the tank allowing you to view a variety of specimens as you make your way through the exhibits. See the penguins and otters frolic, or watch the sand sharks and jelly fish glide through the water. The choice is yours and there is no rush. In season there are even whale watching excursions so almost anything you want to see is available. Don't miss the harbor seals though, this is always a highlight of any visit.

As most parents are aware you can't take kids anywhere without them wanting a souvenir and the aquarium of course realizes this. What is nice is that they have items available for all price ranges starting at under $5.00 up to exquisite selections of jewelry costing significantly more. When it is time to satisfy your hunger in the literal sense there are two dining options available without leaving the aquarium, The Harbor View Cafe which is perfect for kids and the still kid friendly but more adult oriented "The Reef" which is an outdoor restaurant with a bar.

Whether you plan to wander around checking each tank and every exhibit or just spend a couple hours seeing specific points of interest your money will be well spent here. There is too much variety to get bored and this could be the highlight of any visit to Boston. Whether you're a visitor or a local this is a place you can visit every year and always find something new.

http://gonewengland.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm ?zi=1/XJ&sdn=gonewengland&cdn=travel&tm=737&gps=178_821_1020_541&f=00&su=p284.9.336.ip_p531.50.336.ip_&tt=2&bt=1&bts=1&zu=http%3A//www.neaq.org/

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