Though Lake Erie provides Cleveland with a pleasant coastal atmosphere, our city is far from a tropical getaway. However, there is one destination that serves the Greater Cleveland area that will bring you face-to-face with some of the region's most exotic inhabitants. Imagine yourself immersed underwater, sharks swimming curiously overhead and colorful scales blurring brilliantly as they dart by—if you imagined such an experience occurring in the Flats, your dream could easily be a reality.
Welcome to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, located at 2000 Sycamore Street, Cleveland.
Located within the historic FirstEnergy Powerhouse building on the West Bank of the Flats is a remarkable public aquarium with an amazing array of nautical life.
When the aquarium opened in 2012, it ended a 26-year period in which Cleveland was without an aquarium.
The facility features a stunning variety of aquatic life, featuring local and tropical species alike.
The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Last tickets are sold at 4, but it is best to allow yourself at least 90 minutes to take in all the aquatic splendor.
The residents of the aquarium may surprise you.
Get to know some locals in the Ohio Lakes and Rivers gallery, see some colorful and creepy fish in the Indo-Pacific gallery, or connect with the cold water inhabitants of the Northern Pacific gallery. The variety of species will pique your interest, and you'll love learning about these fascinating creatures.
The most striking exhibit features a 175-foot underwater SeaTube .
This amazing architectural feature is filled with 230,000 gallons of water, and contains four species of shark. As one of the longest underwater viewing tunnels in existence, it is easy to feel like you are truly underwater.
The SeaTube is a favorite of fans of all ages.
The extraordinary views offered within this tank will bring humans up close and personal with sharks, moray eels, stingrays, and other remarkable creatures.
Keep your eyes open for a diver or two.
When divers enter the tanks, they cling carefully to the floor of the tank to avoid capturing the attention of or disturbing any fish. Some fish, though, like the juvenile Goliath grouper, are friendly with human visitors and appreciate the occasional belly rub. Divers usually enter the shark tank in the morning and afternoon.
Experience daily feedings, tortoise encounters, and games at your local aquarium.
Check here for a daily schedule of events.
Be sure to stop by the Coastal gallery for the opportunity to feel sea life.
The Touch Pool is a remarkable feature filled with 11,000 gallons of water and an interesting array of critters. Its resident stingrays love to be the center of attention.
Tickets are available online or at the door.
Adult admission is $19.95 each and $13.95 for children 2 and up. Click here to buy tickets or passes.
So plan your trip today!
Whether you are enjoying a typical day or a special event at the aquarium, your time in this underwater paradise will be out of this world.
Every Clevelander must visit the Greater Cleveland Aquarium at least once.
The Greater Cleveland Aquarium is truly a delight, and its gentle blue lights and bubbly atmosphere are sure to enchant. What is your favorite exhibit in the aquarium?
Still feeling nautical? Check out these waterfront restaurants for unforgettable flavor and views.
Having these fun attractions on your bucket list for your next trip would make your stay unforgettable.
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