North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island

A place like no other near Outer Banks in North Carolina

North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island

When you visit the beaches of the Outer Banks, you might be curious about the marine creatures that share the water with you. In Roanoke, North Carolina, there’s a fantastic place to satisfy your curiosity—the North Carolina Aquarium. One of its main attractions is the Graveyard of the Atlantic exhibit. Inside, you’ll discover models depicting the remains of the USS Monitor, which provide a home for giant turtles and sharks in a 285,000-gallon tank called the Ironclad Sanctuary exhibit.

Apart from this fascinating feature, the aquarium offers a diverse array of other marine critters. You’ll come across alligators, otters, frogs, and an abundance of fish throughout the rest of the facility. If your kids are eager for a hands-on experience, make sure to visit the Sea Turtle Rescue exhibit. Here, they can not only learn about the efforts made to protect these amazing creatures but also have the opportunity to touch real turtles.

The aquarium has been described by recent visitors as small, but it is definitely worth a visit due to its fascinating exhibits and animals. It’s important to note that the aquarium tends to be more crowded on rainy days and during the summer. Once you’re inside, you’ll have access to all the exhibits, including a gift shop, a cafe, and restrooms. There are also interactive experiences available, such as animal feedings, animal encounters, and educational talks with the divers. If you’re interested, you can opt for additional activities like shark dives, behind-the-scenes experiences, and day camps, which may require an extra fee.