New England Aquarium Vs Mystic Aquarium
Introduction
Visiting aquariums is a fun and educational activity for both children and adults. In New England, there are two popular aquariums that attract thousands of visitors every year - New England Aquarium and Mystic Aquarium. Both are known for their impressive exhibits and interactive experiences, but which one is better? In this article, we will compare and contrast New England Aquarium and Mystic Aquarium to help you decide which one to visit.
Location
New England Aquarium is located in Boston, Massachusetts, while Mystic Aquarium is in Mystic, Connecticut. Both locations are easily accessible by car and public transportation, but if you're looking for a quick day trip, Mystic Aquarium may be a better option as it is closer to major cities like New York and Boston.
Exhibits
Both aquariums have a wide variety of exhibits that showcase marine life from all over the world. New England Aquarium is known for its giant ocean tank that houses Myrtle, a 90-year-old sea turtle, as well as sharks, stingrays, and other fish. Mystic Aquarium, on the other hand, is famous for its beluga whales, African penguins, and sea lions. Additionally, Mystic Aquarium has a special exhibit called Titanic - 12,450 Feet Below, which features artifacts and information about the famous shipwreck.
Interactive Experiences
Both aquariums offer various interactive experiences that allow visitors to get up close and personal with marine life. At New England Aquarium, you can touch stingrays and sea stars at the Edge of the Sea exhibit, or watch a 3D movie at the Simons IMAX Theatre. Mystic Aquarium offers a unique experience called the Encounter, where visitors can get in the water with beluga whales and touch and communicate with them.
Events and Programs
Both aquariums offer events and programs throughout the year for visitors of all ages. New England Aquarium has daily presentations and shows, as well as special events like the Penguin Plunge, where participants jump into the icy waters of Boston Harbor to raise money for the aquarium. Mystic Aquarium hosts various events like the Seal Splash, where participants jump into the chilly waters of Long Island Sound to support the aquarium's animal rescue program.
Admission Prices
Admission prices for both aquariums are similar, with New England Aquarium charging $32.95 for adults and $23.95 for children ages 3-11, and Mystic Aquarium charging $37.99 for adults and $28.99 for children ages 3-12. However, both aquariums offer discounts for seniors, students, and military personnel, as well as special deals for local residents.
Conclusion
Both New England Aquarium and Mystic Aquarium offer unique and exciting experiences for visitors. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and location. If you're looking for a city adventure and an impressive ocean tank, New England Aquarium is the way to go. If you're looking for a more intimate experience with beluga whales and other marine life, Mystic Aquarium is the better option. Regardless of which one you choose, both aquariums are sure to provide a memorable and educational experience.
