Aquarium of Niagara: Great Lakes 360 (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Aquarium of Niagara: Great Lakes 360?
What makes it 91% Kids-Friendly: Penguin feeds, sea-lion shows, touch pools, and wide aisles give 3-12-year-olds hands-on fun and learning; stroller access and restrooms help parents, though tickets add up for large broods.
Positives:
- Inclusive Admission: All shows and touch pools are included in the general admission ticket.
- Stroller Access: Elevator and accessible entrance let you move kids easily between floors.
Challenges:
- Crowded Shows: Popular feeding times draw crowds, often leading to standing-room only.
- No Stroller Storage: You must keep your stroller with you—no on-site storage available.
What is Aquarium of Niagara: Great Lakes 360?
- A living museum extension of the Aquarium of Niagara dedicated to the Great Lakes ecosystem
- Hosts sixteen interactive exhibits showcasing native species—from turtles and frogs to lake sturgeon—through interpretive panels and touch stations
- Integrates modern architectural design with the Niagara Gorge setting, including a rooftop observation deck overlooking the gorge
What is so special about Aquarium of Niagara: Great Lakes 360 for with kids?
- Daily penguin feedings and sea lion shows keep kids engaged
- Hands-on touch pools let children safely interact with rays and sturgeon
- Great Lakes 360 exhibits teach regional wildlife stories in a fun way
- Rooftop deck offers easy photo ops with gorge views
- Family-friendly facilities include stroller access and changing stations
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This lets you catch multiple animal shows, explore exhibits, and enjoy touch pools at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Aquarium of Niagara: Great Lakes 360
Penguin Feedings:
Watch keepers feed Humboldt penguins at 10 am and 3 pm.
Tip: Arrive 5 minutes early for a front-row view.
Sea Lion Show:
Cheer on California sea lions during 15-minute performances at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3:30 pm.
Tip: Grab seats early; shows fill up fast.
Shark & Ray Bay Touch Pool:
Feel gentle rays and bamboo sharks in shallow tanks.
Tip: Dry your hands completely before touching to keep animals calm.
Great Lakes 360 Exhibits:
Explore 16 immersive exhibits of native species like sturgeon, frogs, and turtles.
Tip: Use the story panels for a quick, kid-friendly lesson.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Aquarium of Niagara: Great Lakes 360
- Time Your Visit: Plan around showtimes using a printed schedule to reduce wait times.
- Grab a Map: Pick up a map at the entrance to navigate exhibits in a logical order.
Reviews of Aquarium of Niagara: Great Lakes 360
Inna Semenova
This place is worth visiting, especially with children. They will love the seal show and will certainly enjoy watching the fish and penguins.
Mny Mngr
The Niagara Aquarium was a wonderful surprise during our visit to the area! It’s smaller than some of the big city aquariums, but it’s packed with charm, engaging exhibits, and a clear passion for marine life. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and truly cared about the animals. Our kids absolutely loved the sea lion show—it was entertaining and educational. We also enjoyed the penguin exhibi...
Kerry Smialek
Very cute aquarium!🐠a good sized one, to the point where it’s just enough.
Patil In America
Wow!!! You can use the discovery pass to enter the aquarium. They have tons of marine species, best marine life to watch is jelly fish, sea lion show and penguin feeding. Find the right appropriate times and watch the shows there. It’s amazing.
V Roberts
A must visit place. If you are a history buff this is a place you will enjoy. There are demonstrations that's a blast from the past. Musket firing was my favorite.
When is the best time to visit Aquarium of Niagara: Great Lakes 360 (Niagara Falls, United States)?
Weekday mornings are quieter in summer. Winter brings fewer crowds but outdoor Nature Stories Walks may pause—check the schedule before visiting.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult tickets (2 × $25) | USD 50 |
| Child tickets (2 × $18) | USD 36 |
| Parking | USD 5 |
| Total Estimated | USD 91 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Aquarium of Niagara: Great Lakes 360
Address: 600 Discovery Way, Niagara Falls, NY 14303, USA
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About Aquarium of Niagara: Great Lakes 360
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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