The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a picturesque and idyllic destination that offers visitors a wealth of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and historical significance. The area is home to stunning beaches, charming coastal towns, and an abundance of wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. One of the top attractions in the region is the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, a fascinating facility that offers visitors an up-close look at the marine life that inhabits the waters of the Outer Banks.
The Best Outerbanks Aquarium
Located in Manteo, the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is an educational and entertaining destination that is perfect for families and nature lovers. This Outerbanks aquarium boasts a variety of interactive exhibits and immersive displays that provide visitors with an opportunity to see and learn about the diverse marine life that calls the region home. From sea turtles and sharks to river otters and alligators, the aquarium showcases the amazing creatures that inhabit the rivers, sounds, and ocean waters of the Outer Banks.
In addition to its fascinating exhibits, the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is also dedicated to conservation efforts and works to protect and preserve the natural environment of the region. The facility participates in a variety of initiatives, including sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation, oyster reef restoration, and beach cleanups. Visitors can learn about these efforts and how they can get involved in helping to protect and conserve the delicate ecosystems of the Outer Banks.
Outerbanks Aquarium Location and Hours
The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is located in Manteo, just off the mainland on Roanoke Island. The aquarium is open year-round, with hours varying by season. During the summer months, the aquarium is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, while in the fall and winter months, the aquarium is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm and on Sundays from 12 pm to 5 pm.
Aquarium Exhibits and Attractions
The Outer Banks Aquarium is home to a variety of exhibits and attractions that showcase the diverse marine life of the area. Some of the most popular exhibits include:
- The Graveyard of the Atlantic: This exhibit showcases the history of shipwrecks off the coast of North Carolina, including artifacts recovered from shipwrecks and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience what it’s like to be on a ship during a storm.
- Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center: This exhibit provides visitors with an up-close look at sea turtles that are being rehabilitated and prepared for release back into the wild.
- Shark Tank: The shark tank features several species of sharks, including sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, and blacktip sharks. Visitors can watch as the sharks swim overhead in the 285,000-gallon tank.
- Touch Tank: The touch tank allows visitors to touch and interact with various marine creatures, including sea stars, horseshoe crabs, and hermit crabs.
In addition to the exhibits, the Outer Banks Aquarium also offers a variety of educational programs, including behind-the-scenes tours, summer camps, and workshops.
Aquarium Conservation Efforts
The Outer Banks Aquarium is dedicated to conservation efforts and works to protect and preserve the marine life of the area. The aquarium participates in several conservation initiatives, including sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation, oyster reef restoration, and beach cleanups. Visitors to the aquarium can learn more about these initiatives and how they can help protect the marine environment.
Overall, the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is a must-visit destination that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun and educational outing, or a nature lover seeking to learn more about the marine life of the region, the Outer Banks Aquarium is an attraction that should not be missed.
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