Fluvarium St. John's
Explore Newfoundland's aquatic life through unique underwater viewing windows and interactive exhibits. A natural learning experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer water for fish viewing
Fluvarium St. John's
Best Time
Clearer water for fish viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Newfoundland's aquatic life through unique underwater viewing windows and interactive exhibits. A natural learning experience.
"Kids loved building a Lego beaver dam and using the microscope, but water clarity impacted fish viewing."
Check Water Clarity
Visit after dry spells or in winter for best fish viewing. Avoid post-rain visits!
Explore All Exhibits
Take your time to see everything; don't miss out on the interactive fun!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Underwater Viewing Windows
Main viewing area
See fish and amphibians swimming in their natural habitat through nine large windows. A unique perspective!
Interactive Exhibits
Main floor
Engage with hands-on displays like building a Lego beaver dam or examining specimens under a microscope.
Local Flora and Fauna
Surrounding park and pond
Explore the natural environment around the Fluvarium, enjoying the local plant life and aquatic ecosystems.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Clear Views
Check for Renovations & Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
3 days in St John’s
Check Water Clarity
Visit after dry spells or in winter for best fish viewing. Avoid post-rain visits!
Explore All Exhibits
Take your time to see everything; don't miss out on the interactive fun!
Free or low cost things to do in St. John's?
Combine with Fairy Doors
Nearby Fairy Door Tour is a great addition for a full day of fun.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Children often love the Lego dam and microscope activities.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Water Clarity
Visit after dry spells or in winter for best fish viewing. Avoid post-rain visits!
Explore All Exhibits
Take your time to see everything; don't miss out on the interactive fun!
Combine with Fairy Doors
Nearby Fairy Door Tour is a great addition for a full day of fun.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Children often love the Lego dam and microscope activities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Fluvarium a neat place with engaging interactive exhibits for children, particularly the Lego dam and microscopes. However, concerns have been raised about water clarity impacting fish viewing, the condition of some tanks, and the overall value for money when exhibits are limited or the water is cloudy. Despite some dated aspects, the friendly staff and natural setting are often highlighted as positives.
"It may be unfair to review this place as they are undergoing renovations, while the overnight rain made it difficult to see the fish as the water was cloudy due to the sediment buildup. Hopefully, I can return once their upgrades have been completed.
Note: I learned that the best time to see the fishes is in the winter months, when the water is clear, or in the warmer months when it has not recently rained, as the water is a green colour, as opposed to brown when I visited.
While I found the exhibits a bit rundown, my children had a lot of fun. They particularly liked building a Lego beaver dam (pretty cool), as well as using the microscope on the main floor, to observing the fishes, whether in an aquarium or through the glass where you can see them swim in their natural habitat."
James C
"Many of the fish do not seem to be adequately cared for in their environments, which made the visit disappointing. Many of the tanks are noticeably too small and not clean. If you want a similar educational experience where the animals are well cared for, go to the Insectarium in Deer Lake—it is a world of difference."
Madi
"Such a neat place - my kid loved checking out all the fish and amphibians. Take your time and check out everything so that you aren't missing out.
Also, if you're in the area and planning a visit to the Fluvarium, check out the Fairy Door Tour further down the road. If you can do both in the same day, that'll be a great day!!"
Dani Burt - Virtual Shore
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fluvarium is located in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. While specific public transport details are scarce, it's generally accessible by car. Many visitors combine a trip here with other nearby attractions.
Information on dedicated parking is limited, but it's advisable to check with the venue directly or look for street parking in the vicinity.
For exploring St. John's and its attractions like the Fluvarium, having a car is often the most convenient option. Ride-sharing services may also be available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, and some visitors have noted being charged around $25. It's best to check the official Fluvarium website or contact them directly for the most current pricing information.
Opening hours can change, especially with renovations. It's recommended to verify the current operating schedule on their official website before your visit.
Information on online ticket purchasing is not widely available. It's generally advised to purchase tickets upon arrival, but confirming this beforehand is a good idea.
Discounts for seniors, students, or families may be offered. Inquire directly with the Fluvarium staff or check their website for any available promotions.
Due to ongoing renovations, some exhibits might be temporarily unavailable. Visitors have noted this, so it's wise to have flexible expectations.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see local species such as trout, salmon, tadpoles, frogs, and toads in their naturalistic habitats.
Yes, children often enjoy the interactive exhibits like the Lego beaver dam and microscope. The underwater viewing is also a hit.
A visit can range from an hour to a few hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and the surrounding park area. Taking your time is recommended.
The winter months or periods with drier weather offer the clearest water for optimal fish viewing. Heavy rain can make the water cloudy.
While not explicitly mentioned, the staff is described as knowledgeable and personable, suggesting opportunities for interaction and learning.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding flash photography near the aquatic life.
The underwater viewing windows offer unique photographic opportunities. The surrounding natural park area also provides scenic shots.
Water clarity is crucial. Photos taken when the water is clear will be much sharper than those taken when it's cloudy due to sediment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your visit with the nearby Fairy Door Tour for a full day of family fun. While some exhibits might be undergoing renovations, the engaging activities and the natural setting offer plenty to explore. The friendly staff can also enhance the learning experience for children.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond the main viewing area, take time to explore the surrounding park and pond. This offers a chance to experience the local flora and fauna in a broader context. The staff's knowledge can also provide deeper insights into the region's biodiversity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Aquatic Environment
This reliance on natural conditions means that the 'best time to visit' is often dictated by the weather. While the exhibits aim for authenticity, some reviews suggest that the upkeep of these naturalistic tanks could be improved, with mentions of tanks appearing too small or not clean enough. Despite these concerns, the educational aspect remains strong, with interactive elements designed to engage visitors, particularly children.
Interactive Learning for All Ages
The staff at the Fluvarium are frequently described as knowledgeable, personable, and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience. They can provide insights into the local ecosystem and the creatures that inhabit it. The surrounding park and pond area also offer opportunities for exploration and a chance to connect with nature, making it a well-rounded visit for those interested in the outdoors and local wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit