Nc Aquarium At Pine Knoll Shores
If you are visiting the coastal region of North Carolina, one of the must-visit attractions is the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. This aquarium, which opened in 1976, is one of three aquariums operated by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
The Exhibits
The NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores has a wide variety of exhibits that showcase the diverse marine life found in the area. One of the most popular exhibits is the Living Shipwreck, which is home to a variety of fish, including sharks, rays, and eels. The aquarium also has a touch tank where visitors can interact with sea stars, horseshoe crabs, and other marine creatures.
Other exhibits include the Marsh Walk, which features animals that live in the marshes of the area, and the Queen Anne's Revenge exhibit, which showcases artifacts from Blackbeard's sunken ship.
Programs and Events
In addition to its exhibits, the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores also offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year. These include behind-the-scenes tours, dive programs, and workshops on topics like marine conservation and animal behavior.
The aquarium also hosts special events, such as the Halloween Trick or Treat Under the Sea and the Polar Express Pajama Party, which are popular with families and children.
Conservation Efforts
The NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is not just a place to see marine animals up close - it is also committed to conserving and protecting the marine environment. The aquarium's Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center, for example, rescues and rehabilitates injured sea turtles before releasing them back into the wild.
The aquarium also has a coral propagation program, which aims to restore damaged coral reefs in the area, and participates in research and monitoring programs to better understand the marine ecosystem.
Plan Your Visit
The NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is open daily, except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Admission fees vary by age, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and North Carolina residents.
Visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the aquarium's exhibits and attending any programs or events that interest them. The aquarium also has a gift shop and a café where visitors can grab a bite to eat.
Overall, the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in marine life and conservation. With its diverse exhibits, programs and events, and commitment to protecting the marine environment, it is a fascinating and educational destination for visitors of all ages.
