Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

About

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach combines aquarium exhibits, marine science education, and active wildlife conservation under one roof. AZA-accredited and a member of WAZA (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums), it is operated by the City of Virginia Beach and serves as both a public attraction and a genuine center for marine research. The aquarium's two buildings — the North Building and South Building — are connected by a pathway that winds through outdoor habitats. Inside, visitors encounter Atlantic stingrays and sharks in an open touch tank, harbor seals in an outdoor habitat, Norfolk Canyon aquarium tanks with large coastal fish, and a massive exhibit featuring sea turtles. The museum is also home to Komodo dragons, Virginia river otters, and a marsh walk with blue crabs and other coastal creatures. A unique feature of the Virginia Aquarium is its working marine animal stranding response program. Staff and volunteers respond to calls about distressed or stranded marine mammals and sea turtles along Virginia's coastline, often treating and rehabilitating animals on-site. Visitors may occasionally see rescued animals in the care facility. For families and groups, the aquarium offers boat-based dolphin and whale watching tours from its dock. Educational programs include homeschool days, toddler programs, scout badges, and school group field trips. Virtual reality pods provide immersive ocean experiences for older visitors and teens.

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