Greater Cleveland Aquarium
2000 Sycamore Street, Cleveland, OH, USA
Daily: 10:00-4:00
$$$
indoor-activities, fun-paid-activities
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The Greater Cleveland Aquarium is an absolute must-see!
It is not an exaggeration to say that the Greater Cleveland Aquarium one of my favorite aquariums that I’ve ever been to. While it’s not a huge facility, the exhibits are so well done that it doesn’t need to be. In fact, the reasonable size is one of the things that makes this such a great attraction for families. Our party, which included a 6 and 8-year-old, was able to take our time and fully see the whole aquarium in about 2 hours. We left completely satisfied with everything we had seen but not totally exhausted!
What we loved about the aquarium is the fact that it is such an immersive experience. This isn’t the kind of aquarium where you’ll be lifting little ones up to peer into small tanks. When you step into the Asia and Indonesia Section, you’ll feel like you’ve hopped on a plane and left the country, the Industry and Habitat section will transport you to an underwater world, and the SeaTube will allow you to dive into the sharks’ world. No detail has been forgotten at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium. All the exhibits are designed in such a way that little ones will be able to see, and experience, the true wonder of the animals on display.
The other thing that made this such a great experience was the sheer uniqueness of the wildlife that they have here. From fish, to frogs, to birds, the creatures that you’ll get to see are truly spectacular. We saw more fish that looked like they’d been dreamed up by Dr. Seuss than I’d ever dreamed could exist.
As if the awesome displays weren’t enough, the Coastal Boardwalk section of the aquarium also offers some hands-on opportunities including a touch tank, play area, and 11,000-gallon stingray touch pool.
On the logistical side of things, the aquarium offers parking in a convenient cash-only lot just in front of the building. (No fee for parking during Covid-19). Strollers, as well as small wagons, are allowed throughout the aquarium.
While there is no café within the aquarium, the gift shop does offer some snack items if you’ve got a food emergency on your hands. However, if you fill up little bellies just before your visit, you should be able to make it through the aquarium and back to the car or one of the outdoor tables in front of the building just in time for a picnic lunch or a snack from home.
The Nautica Café is located directly above the aquarium and offers family-friendly fare such as pizzas and hot dogs if you don’t have a picnic. (Please note, the café is currently closed due to Covid-19). There are also several restaurants a short drive away on the West Bank of The Flats.
If you’re in Cleveland and you’ve got little ones that like animals, I cannot recommend the Greater Cleveland Aquarium enough!