Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

The Virginia Aquarium’s guided boat trips present the area’s best opportunity to get on the water and view its marine mammals and seabirds. Whale watching boat trips are available from December through mid-March and Dolphin watching boat trips run from late March through October. Learn more about the Aquarium’s boat trips on the website.

Additionally, guests are invited to enjoy the peaceful 1/3-mile Nature Trail connecting the Main Building to the newly renovated South Building. The trail contains an elevated tower and several decks that extend out over the water to enhance views of the marsh and osprey nesting platforms along Owl Creek. Portions of the boardwalk meander through a woodland habitat complete with pine, oak, and maple trees as well as a wide variety of native flowers. In addition to the many native woodland species, quiet visitors are bound to spot a number of land birds and marshland animals that frequent the shores of Owl Creek.

Inside, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center offers an inspiring, educational, and entertaining experience all tied into one featuring thousands of animals representing over 300 species. Guests are invited to enjoy interactive exhibits. For guests, schools, educators, and families the Aquarium offers an extensive array of educational programs onsite, virtually, and via outreach programs which include activities designed to foster conservation and an appreciation of local natural resources.