Probably the biggest disappointment of our vacation. We went expecting to see this huge aquarium and paid approximately $8 each. As we entered, we were told they were going to feed the sharks at 2:00 p.m. so as we walked through the aquarium I kept looking for big sharks the biggest they had were approximately 4 ft. One floor with... More

Dark, run-down, small. So many other, better places to see in DC. More

This is not an aquarium, more a glorified government building basement with fish tanks. Save your time and get up to the Batimore Aquarium if in the area. I have alway been embarassed by this place being called our National Aquarium. I got to a lot of Aquariums, and this is not an Aquarium. More

We recently bought a season pass good for both the Baltimore and DC Aquariums. I had heard from friends that the Baltimore Aquarium was superior as it was more true to the general expectation one would have. Since our pass was good for both, we visited the DC location first. It was definitely a lot smaller than I was expecting.... More

This place is located in the dank basement of an office building, and in no way earns the title "National Aquarium", which rightly belongs to the vastly superior aquarium in Baltimore. Slime covered tanks with sad-looking fish in a basement do not a fun experience make. More

Very small. Not worth the walk or entrance fee.Time better spent at other Smithsonian attractions which are free. More

Nice facility located in the heart of the city. Was expecting a lot more from the "National" aquarium though More

We waited 65 minutes in line and paid $10 per person to enter the basement of a building with a smallish collection of marine life. There are so many amazing things to do in Washington DC, many of them FREE! I don't recommend this location unless you've run out of things to do. P.S. not to be confused with the... More

We were overwhelmed by the crowds at some of the Mall museums, so enjoyed the less busy Aquarium, in the basement of the Department of Commerce. It is a paid admission (and a bit overpriced for the contents) but an interesting collection, with focus on habitats in various US marine preserves, both fresh and salt. More