Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration

Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration


Uncover the mysteries of the bottom of the ocean and its amazing marine animals when you explore this aquarium’s interactive displays and touch pools.

Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration is a state-of-the-art destination for discovery in Mystic. Explore the depths of the ocean as you make your way through the aquarium’s exhibits, watching jellyfish float by and sea lions playfully swimming through the water. Learn about fearsome sharks or feed a ray from your hand. You might spot African penguins, beluga whales and American alligators or see a sea lion take the stage for a live theatre show.

Begin your visit to the Mystic Aquarium with a trip through the main galleries. You’ll see a shimmering coral reef and fluorescent corals, as well as a mass of multicolored jellies. Check out loggerhead turtles, moray eels and barracuda, or learn about the story of the aquarium’s green sea turtle, Charlotte. The Shark Lagoon and Shark Encounters exhibits reveal a different side of the much-feared creatures. See stingrays and feel the skin of a ray as it glides underneath your fingers at the Touch Pool.

California sea lions are a breathtaking sight as they whirl around the underwater viewing area. Learn more about these playful creatures at the Foxwoods Marine Theatre. More interactive experiences await at the Discovery Lab, where you can learn how to hold a crab. The aquarium’s Arctic Coast exhibit contains the largest outdoor beluga whale enclosure in the country. Kids will delight in the Exploration: Wild exhibit, which takes visitors on an exciting trail through some of the world’s most fascinating habitats.

Make your way along the wooden boardwalk of the Marsh Trek and spy turtles, bullfrogs and ducks amid the lily pads. The 4-D theatre and National Geographic Theatre are ideal for sitting back and experiencing captivating documentaries on the big screen.

Check the aquarium’s programme for feeding times, educational presentations and animal encounters. If you are hungry, take a break at the aquarium’s Penguins Café. Stop by the gift store to pick up a souvenir for your visit.

Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration is less than 10 minutes’ drive from downtown Mystic. Discounted tickets are available for children and seniors. This attraction is open daily except for Christmas Day and Thanksgiving.

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Things to do near Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration

At Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration, visitors can enjoy a variety of engaging activities, including the fascinating marine exhibits and interactive experiences. Nearby, Mystic Seaport offers additional attractions, such as boating and sailing opportunities, allowing you to explore the charming coastal scenery. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the rich maritime history and vibrant atmosphere of this delightful area.

Shopping

At Mystic Aquarium, enjoy shopping at Olde Mistick Village, just 124m away, offering charming shops and local gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit Tanger Outlet Foxwoods, located 4.3km away, or Crystal Mall, 6.2km away, both providing a wide range of shopping options.

Recreation

Ocean Beach Park offers a delightful outdoor pool experience, perfect for families and sports enthusiasts, located 5.6km from Mystic Aquarium. For golf lovers, Lake of Isles provides a scenic course just 4.3km away. Shady Oaks Park, only 1.2km away, is ideal for relaxation and wellness activities.

Adventure

Experience thrilling slides and pools at Water Wizz of Westerly, located 5.6km from Mystic Aquarium. For a scenic adventure, hike the Lantern Hill Trailhead, 4.3km away, surrounded by stunning nature. If you're into speed, catch the excitement at Waterford Speedbowl, 6.8km from the aquarium.

Nightlife

Catch a show at the Grand Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino, just 4.3km away, for a blend of entertainment and culture. For a family-friendly outing, enjoy the whimsical Flying Horse Carousel or challenge your crew at High Rollers Luxury Lanes and Lounge, both located nearby.

Find the best attractions near Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration

Visitors to Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration can enjoy a variety of attractions, including nearby beaches and the Mystic Seaport Museum, which showcases the region's maritime heritage. For those seeking outdoor experiences, the close-by national and state parks offer beautiful landscapes and recreational activities. Whether you're planning a trip to Mystic Aquarium or exploring local points of interest, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this charming coastal town.

  • Mystic Seaport - The Museum of America and the Sea: Explore the rich maritime heritage of America at this expansive museum. Enjoy interactive exhibits and historic ships, all set in a charming seaside village atmosphere, just 559m from the aquarium.
  • Misquamicut State Beach: Experience the classic beach vibes at this beautiful stretch of sandy coastline, located 5.0km away. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shore.
  • Naval Submarine Base New London: Discover the fascinating history of naval submarines at this civic site, located 4.3km from the aquarium. Engage with friendly locals and learn about the important role this base plays in naval operations.

Best time to go to Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration

The best time to visit Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January32.0°F (0.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February33.1°F (0.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March38.7°F (3.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June65.5°F (18.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July72.9°F (22.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September66.0°F (18.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
November46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December38.5°F (3.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration

To save money on your visit to Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration, plan your trip between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Opt for a Wednesday stay for the best rates, as Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels with flexible cancellation policies, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. For transport, take advantage of public transport options or explore the area on foot to keep costs down while enjoying free local attractions.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To uncover the most affordable prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some money by combining your hotel stay at Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.