Adventure Aquarium: A mesmerizing glimpse into the underwater world
If you’ve lived in Philly for a while, chances are you’ve heard of Camden’s best aquatic treasure, Adventure Aquarium. The special aquarium is home to some of the most fascinating water animals in the world, including Pacific blacktips, silky and hammerhead sharks, hippos, loggerhead sea turtles and Little Blue penguins. Additionally, Adventure Aquarium organizes an array of programs and events, including sensational Candlelight concerts, intimate concerts that take popular hits and give them a musical makeover amid a sea of flickering candles.
Located on the Camden Waterfront, even though it’s technically situated in Camden, the aquarium is only an 11-minute drive from Philly city center. The easiest way to get to the aquarium is by car, but there are also bus and subway options from Broadway station available. Whichever mean of transport you choose, make sure to reserve a day and explore all the amazing exhibitions and programs this aquatic gem has to offer.
Facts, Curiosities and Interesting Things about Adventure Aquarium
1. Adventure Aquarium is home to over 15,000 aquatic animals, including the largest collection of sharks in the Northeast.
The aquarium offers a fascinating 550,000-gallon Shark Realm exhibit, featuring over 15,000 aquatic animals, including hundreds of amazing fish and nearly 30 sharks.
2. Adventure Aquarium is the only aquarium in the world to exhibit hippos.
On May 29, 2014 Hippo Haven was first opened exhibiting Genny and Button’s new home in a 60,000-gallon pool. It is the only aquarium in the world to exhibit hippos and one of only six facilities in the US to have Little Blue penguins.
3. You can adopt a shark at Adventure Aquarium!
If you want to symbolically adopt one of Adventure Aquarium’s many jawsome friends, now you can! Check out the aquarium’s Shark Pal Adoption Package that includes an official Certificate of Adoption, small collection of shark teeth, bio/fact sheet, plush, mug, tote bag and thank you letter.
Candlelight concerts at Adventure Aquarium
Candlelight is a dazzling experience due to its signature sea of candles. But add to that the mystical backdrop of Adventure Aquarium and you have an extraordinary experience you won’t forget any time soon. Adventure Aquarium will host tributes to some of the greatest legends of soul in the likes of Otis Redding, Brandy, Aaliyah, and more. And if you’re in the mood for something fun and uplifting, you can also catch your favorite animated movie soundtracks with a classical twist. From “The Little Mermaid” to “The Lion King”, you are guaranteed a good time.
What else can you do at Adventure Aquarium?
The Center for Aquatic Sciences offers a wide range of programs and events for Camden residents to discover the area’s natural spaces and the region’s diverse flora and fauna. From fun kayaking and fishing adventures to family-friendly hikes and trail explorations, you can learn more about the importance of biodiversity and the preservation of environment through fun games and activities. The aquarium also provides a number of volunteer and outreach programs at schools, daycare centers, summer camps, libraries, community centers, fairs and special events, as well as a customized Virtual Outreach program.
Adventure Aquarium is an impressive aquatic site for people living in the Northeast, but it also offers so many different programs and events where you can learn more about the underwater world and celebrate the area’s rich biodiversity. It’s also set to host a number of intimate concerts that along with the breathtaking animals floating in the background will make for a magical evening you won’t want to miss. Enjoy the ultimate date night or the perfect evening out with a mystical candlelit meal under the sea!