The North Carolina Aquarium On Roanoke Island
The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. The aquarium is located on the scenic Roanoke Island, which is home to many other popular tourist destinations, including the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and the Lost Colony.
About the Aquarium
The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is one of three aquariums operated by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The aquarium first opened its doors in 1976 and has since become a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts.
The aquarium features a variety of exhibits showcasing the diverse marine life found along the North Carolina coast. Visitors can see everything from sea turtles and stingrays to sharks and jellyfish. The aquarium also has a number of interactive exhibits, including touch tanks where visitors can get up close and personal with some of the aquarium's residents.
Exhibits
One of the most popular exhibits at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is the Graveyard of the Atlantic exhibit. This exhibit showcases the many shipwrecks that have occurred along the North Carolina coast over the years. Visitors can see artifacts recovered from these wrecks and learn about the history and culture of the region.
The aquarium also has a large shark exhibit, which features species such as sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, and blacktip sharks. Visitors can watch as these majestic creatures swim overhead in the 285,000-gallon tank.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the aquarium also hosts a number of special events throughout the year. These events include behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and educational programs for children and adults.
Conservation
The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is committed to conservation and education. The aquarium participates in a number of research and conservation programs, including efforts to protect sea turtles and other endangered species. The aquarium also offers educational programs for schools and community groups, with a focus on teaching visitors about the importance of protecting our oceans and marine life.
Visiting the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is not only a fun and educational experience, but it also supports the aquarium's conservation efforts. So next time you're in the Outer Banks area, be sure to stop by and check out all the amazing marine life on display.