North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

Isabella Thomas

Very cool place to visit! We went here in the middle of the day around 1. Ever since covid appeared they have you get your tickets online and have you choose a time so the place isn’t overcrowded. That was something I appreciated because sometimes it is very hard to see exhibits with a bunch of little kids with their hands all over the glass and yelling. The aquarium was well kept and cleaned. Exhibits were easy to follow and read about and observe. We saw the little cute otters asleep on the side all bundled up soon as we walked through the doors and that was adorable. Alligators were a sight to see. Definitely meet miss Luna the albino, she has a beautiful set of scales on her. It’s a bit musky inside so don’t dress for AC cold weather blasting. Recommend a good pair of walking shoes, a sundress or shorts and a tee, and have your phones and cameras ready WITHOUT flash. It’s obnoxious to the wildlife and isn’t necessary. There is a hurricane contraption that is cash only $2 that blows wind around you and makes you feel like your standing in a category 1 hurricane (wind only) Check the times for their shows, they have shows that teach about the wildlife within the aquarium and talk about who is there and outside in the world.

April Thomas

A good place to view local sea life. Some very nice exhibits and easy enough to navigate at any age. It took 4 adults about an hour to walk through. There is a hurricane simulator machine that costs $2 and only takes $1 bills. They have an auditorium with movies and short lessons. We didn't see the times for the events posted. You exit through the gift shop and there is a concession stand outside and a playground for the kids. A nice walk to the parking lot with a few more outdoor exhibits.

Tim & Beth Tears

AMAZING!!! So many exhibits and reasonably priced. You get up close and personal with the animals. A great place for the kids to learn while also being entertained. The staff were beyond pleasant.

Linda Spinicchia

We love this place! It's a rather small Aquarium compared to others, good varieties of animals though. Great for kids! With it's beautiful location and walking trails outside it makes it one of our favorites! We take the ferry from Southport, NC across to Fort Fisher. Only takes about 25 minutes. And it's only $7 to take your car/truck on the ferry. No reservations needed an advance for the ferry, but you do need them in advance for the Aquarium. The prices are amazing with only like $13 for adults for tickets to the Aquarium! Lots to do over there with seeing the Fort and driving down to Kure beach! Check out all the local stops to get something to eat, very good!