Our Day at the National Aquarium – Washington, DC
Earlier this month my family spent the morning at the National Aquarium in Washington, DC. While we have been to the Baltimore location many times, this little treasure hidden in the basement of the Commerce Building was a new experience for us. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and will absolutely be returning often. Thank you to the National Aquarium for hosting my family and treating us to an informative event!
More About the Aquarium
The National Aquarium, DC, has been operating from inside the Commerce Building since 1931, but this location has only been associated with the National Aquarium in Baltimore since 2003. Renovations to the space began in 2004, and today the aquarium is home to America’s Aquatic Treasures™, over 250 species including sharks, eels, alligators, amphibians, and loggerhead turtles.
What my family enjoyed most about our recent visit was the cool, calm atmosphere. Located on 14th Street between Pennsylvania and Consitution Avenues, the aquarium is located among some of DC’s busiest tourist attractions, yet the somewhat isolated location keeps crowd levels down. It is incredibly peaceful to come in off the bright and busy Mall to a calm, dim circular pathway of peaceful tanks. I was personally drawn to the special exhibit focusing on the National Marine Sanctuaries Program and freshwater ecosystems of the country. Rather than just look at tank after tank of fish, this exhibit actually replicates different sanctuaries from around the nation, showcasing the animals that reside within them.
Ready to visit the National Aquarium? General admission is $9; seniors and military, $8; Children 3-11, $4; younger than 3, free. To learn more please visit http://www.nationalaquarium.org/ or call 202-482-2825. The National Aquarium Washington, DC is a private, non-profit organization funded by private and public support and admission revenue to operate.
Disclosure: Thank you to the National Aquarium for hosting my family of four and providing us with a tour of the facilities as well as a turtle plush souvenir for each child.
