The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
4.5
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Easy access from I-95 or Metro-North Railroad, convenient covered parking next door, warm and spacious with two on-site cafes, a gift shop, and a 4D Theater, the Aquarium is a most excellent family outing, date, or solo visit! The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is the only aquarium devoted to Long Island Sound, the "Estuary of National Significance" just outside our doors. Our marine population includes a variety of sharks, stingrays, harbor seals, sea turtles, otters, jellies, crabs, lobsters, and more. We also exhibit tropical travelers that follow the Gulf Stream north to our waters. Plus we have some other fun animals, from tamarins to meerkats. We offer lots of touch experiences including sturgeon, stingrays, sharks, jellyfish, and intertidal animals.
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,051 reviews
Excellent
581
Very good
325
Average
99
Poor
24
Terrible
22
jess98ac
Newington, CT127 contributions
Mar 2021 • Family
We had to pre-purchase tickets for a specific time which was supposed to mean limited capacity. While I do believe there were way less people than a normal Saturday, there was absolutely no enforcement or encouragement of social distancing. We didn't see a single employee walking around limiting the amount of people at any display, the "one way" signs weren't hung well so they were spinning around, and often times there was a "one way" exhibit with no way out unless you went back the wrong way. An interesting enough place, but not in a hurry to return.
Written March 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for reaching out with your concerns. Please know that we are taking steps to respond, most notably adding staff whose main responsibility will be to watch for guests who are not properly socially distanced and to make sure that the one-way traffic flow is being properly followed.
Written March 19, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
dcscofield
Norwalk, Connecticut26 contributions
Jun 2019
The Maritime Aquarium is a great activity for all, families, seniors, elderly. They are always changing around the exhibits and you will always discover something new each time you go. They have special events from time to time and I encourage you to attend. We have seen awesome IMAX movies, Scientists and even attended the Chocolate Lovers Event! Yum yum! It’s location is right in the middle of the revitalized SONO where you will find interesting boutiques, art displays, restaurants, bars and tapas, coffee cafes and even a psychic!
Written February 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Afoodie65
Cold Spring, NY1,249 contributions
Sep 2021
Interesting visit with 4 teenagers and 3 adults.
Prices were high but that being said, the aquarium had some interesting displays and knowledgeable, friendly volunteers. A special shout out to the cashier at The Cafe who was exceptional friendly and helpful (sorry I did not get her name).
The jelly fish (referred to as 'jellies' by the staff since they are not actually fish) displays were remarkable, including a "touch the jellies tank." Another interesting feature was the ray touch tank. The harbor seals were fun to watch although they did not perform as much at feeding time as sea lions would.
The day we visited the otters must have had the day off.
The shark tank, octopus and giant sea turtles were also worth watching.
Could have skipped the 4D film about sharks (audio was not working properly).
Worth a visit although I am wondering where meerkats, a porcupine and a parrot fit into an aquarium.
Prices were high but that being said, the aquarium had some interesting displays and knowledgeable, friendly volunteers. A special shout out to the cashier at The Cafe who was exceptional friendly and helpful (sorry I did not get her name).
The jelly fish (referred to as 'jellies' by the staff since they are not actually fish) displays were remarkable, including a "touch the jellies tank." Another interesting feature was the ray touch tank. The harbor seals were fun to watch although they did not perform as much at feeding time as sea lions would.
The day we visited the otters must have had the day off.
The shark tank, octopus and giant sea turtles were also worth watching.
Could have skipped the 4D film about sharks (audio was not working properly).
Worth a visit although I am wondering where meerkats, a porcupine and a parrot fit into an aquarium.
Written September 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Josh D.
Syracuse, NY193 contributions
Jan 2020
I enjoyed how many different kinds of activities were included in the price. The IMAX was, obviously, a huge hit with the kids, and I enjoyed that there were a variety of things like touch tanks, aquaria and, oddly meerkats. It isn't inexpensive, between admission and a light lunch it was nearly $100 for an adult and two kids, but honestly they do such good work and it was so much fun, that I didn't mind the cost. WAY better than say, going to Legoland or something like that!
Written January 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Camw423112
1 contribution
Jun 2021 • Family
Children (10 & 11 years old) and adults (grandmothers) had a great time. We learned a lot and had fun doing it. Lots of hands-on investigation for kids. The instructors were friendly as well as knowledgeable and related well with the children. The ship was clean, comfortable, a good size and well equipped for its function. Everyone involved from the crew, the staff and even the ticket sales seemed focused on making it a great experience.
Written June 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Eddie M
Milford, CT103 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
Visited aquarium which is participating in CTs free museums for kids program. The kids had fun but we were round the exhibits in just over an hour - no way the full price admission would be justified.
Highlights were the sharks and stingray tanks.
The parking was a complete disaster. 20mins to get a space on arrival, 45 mins to exit the garage.
Highlights were the sharks and stingray tanks.
The parking was a complete disaster. 20mins to get a space on arrival, 45 mins to exit the garage.
Written July 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for reaching out, we appreciate and value your feedback. Your voice has been heard, and we will do all we can to continue to improve the guest experience while visiting The Maritime Aquarium.Â
Written July 19, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
krivy05
Middlebury, CT64 contributions
Oct 2020 • Family
Before going we researched online to make sure this was something safe to bring my child to during Covid times. Seeing we had to book tickets online for a certain time I felt like they were only allowing a certain amount of people in at once. Well that’s not the case because once you are in you are in for the day so there was a ton of people in there and large groups in the same areas. Unfortunately I did not feel safe with that many people in one area at the same time. I understand things are hard right now but we also have to make sure people feel comfortable and feel like you are doing what you can to keep people safe and unfortunately I had to rush my son through because it was not enjoyable. Once Covid is over I will
Go back and give it another chance but if you are someone taking Covid seriously I would steer clear for now :(
Go back and give it another chance but if you are someone taking Covid seriously I would steer clear for now :(
Written October 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for reaching out with your concerns, we are sorry to hear that you were uncomfortable during your visit.
The Maritime Aquarium follows all State of Connecticut and CDC guidelines, including operating at a reduced capacity. However, we are aware ... as attendance has gradually started to rebound since our reopening ... that "pinch points" develop in the galleries. Please know that we are taking steps to respond, most notably adding staff whose main responsibility will be to watch for guests who are not practicing social distancing.
Thanks again for reaching out to us, we appreciate your feedback - especially as we continue to make adjustments.
Written October 13, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
CousteauMunson
Stamford, CT182 contributions
Feb 2020
It has been several years since we visited the museum and we were pleasantly surprised. The exhibits were really well done, there were plenty of activities throughout which allow for education and interaction with the staff and parents. The IMX movie about SuperDogs was fantastic. The meerkats, otters and tamarins were delightful surprise exhibits.
Written February 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KyleLucian
1 contribution
May 2021
Had a sunset cruise scheduled for May 8th at 6:30pm. There were four or five other groups waiting on pier waiting to board. At 6:45pm, someone from other group came across the cancelation notification on website. I had asked about cancelations when booked and was told I would get an email and text 3 hours before if canceled. Never happened and was not happy. Now, no one is answering at reservation department to get refund.
Written May 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jessica B
Pleasant Valley, NY65 contributions
Mar 2021 • Family
We went as a family of 4 on a Sunday just to get out of the house and do something new. The price was $93 for all of use without a movie. We walked slowly and took our time looking at everything, we were done in 2 hours. The exhibits were nice and varied but I felt for $93 we should have had a longer experience. I don’t think we’ll be back but it was a good adventure out of the house.
Written March 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
questions if I want to bring my family to visit the aquarium do you have a family package discount or a special offer
Written July 24, 2021
Hey Mark and everyone, does the Sunset Cruise you went on visit any lighthouses? And can you bring alcohol on board? Just trying to decide between this and the Norwalk Sunset Cruise right next to it. Thanks in advance!
Written August 6, 2020
Hi Daniel!
Our Sunset Cruise passes the three lighthouses here in Norwalk. You can bring alcohol - just as long as it is not in glass bottles!
Hope to see you soon!
Written August 6, 2020
Is the IMAX ticket included in entrance price?
Written September 7, 2018
Are IMAX tickets included with entrance price?
Written September 7, 2018
The neighborhood is named SoNo. Full of businesses, restaurants, things to do, and parks.
Written February 3, 2018
Adults: $22.95
Child (age 3-12): $15.95
Youth (age 13-17): $20.95
Senior (age 65+): $20.95
Imax movie ticked included with admissions
Written September 6, 2017
Hi, Jean. Yes, the entire Aquarium is handicapped-accessible. Please come visit!
Written July 10, 2017
Not 100% sure but I am willing to bet it is. I would give them a call just to confirm.
Written July 12, 2017
Hi Robert. There is a list of hotels on our website that are nearby and offer either discounted Aquarium admission vouchers or packages that include Aquarium vouchers.
The closest hotels in Norwalk are:
Even Hotel (855) 879-3836
Hilton Garden Inn (203) 523-4000
Courtyard by Marriott 
(203) 849-9111
Doubletree
 (203) 853-3477
Hotel Zero Degrees (203) 750-9800
Hope this helps!
Written February 10, 2017
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