A multi-faceted facility, Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration harbours a fascinating collection of sea animals and a National Geographic museum. There’s also a 4D theatre streaming interactive films, such as “Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs”.
Don’t miss seeing the rare Stellar sea lions, Arctic spotted seals and the two enormous beluga whales. There’s also a sand tiger shark weighing up to 136 kilograms with giant protruding teeth. Special exhibits include a shark touch pool and an African black-footed penguin habitat.
Sign up for a Sea Lion Encounter to greet the California sea lions up close and participate in a private training session. You can also join African penguin trainers during a Penguin Encounter session and learn about the aquarium’s conservation efforts.
Getting There
Mystic Aquarium is located in the city of Mystic, about a 15-minute drive from New London along the south-eastern shore of Connecticut. It’s accessible by car using Exit 90 from I-95 and parking is available on site. Rideshare services and taxis offer transportation from New London.