North Carolina Aquarium Roanoke Island
Discover diverse marine life, from playful otters to majestic sharks, and learn about vital sea turtle conservation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
North Carolina Aquarium Roanoke Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover diverse marine life, from playful otters to majestic sharks, and learn about vital sea turtle conservation.
"A fantastic destination for families, with engaging exhibits and a focus on marine conservation."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Advance online booking is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your entry time.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking, so wear comfy shoes for exploring exhibits and the outdoor areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Playful River Otters
Outdoor Wetlands Area
Watch these energetic creatures twist and tumble in their habitat. A definite crowd-pleaser for all ages!
Leucistic Alligator
Outdoor Wetlands Area
Marvel at the rare white alligator with striking blue eyes. A truly unique sight you won't forget.
STAR Center (Sea Turtle Hospital)
Interactive Exhibit
Learn about sea turtle rehabilitation and conservation efforts. See rescued turtles and understand their journey.
+1
Shark Tank Encounter
Main Aquarium Exhibit
Gaze into the 285,000-gallon tank filled with sharks and other marine life. Divers often interact with visitors!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Smoother Visit
Embrace the Outdoors & Interactive Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Advance online booking is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your entry time.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking, so wear comfy shoes for exploring exhibits and the outdoor areas.
🦦 Don't Miss the Otters!
The playful river otters are a visitor favorite and a must-see during your visit.
🌊 Explore the Pier
The pier offers great water views and a chance to connect with the coastal environment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Advance online booking is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your entry time.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking, so wear comfy shoes for exploring exhibits and the outdoor areas.
🦦 Don't Miss the Otters!
The playful river otters are a visitor favorite and a must-see during your visit.
🌊 Explore the Pier
The pier offers great water views and a chance to connect with the coastal environment.
♻️ Support Conservation
Consider purchasing souvenirs from the gift shop, as proceeds support conservation efforts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island for its engaging exhibits, particularly the outdoor wetlands with otters and the rare white alligator. The STAR Center for sea turtle rehabilitation is a highlight, offering an inspiring look at conservation efforts. Families appreciate the interactive elements and the manageable size of the aquarium.
"We loved the aquarium! The exhibits obviously have all kinds of interesting and beautiful marine creatures, the outdoor wetlands area with the alligators and otters was really cool and experiential and the interactive parts of the exhibits were so great for kids. The diver in the shark tank was really fun and gave knuckles to all the kids standing there watching. The kids got to touch stingrays and pencil urchins, got to pretend to diagnose, treat and release an injured turtle in a really well done exhibit room and hunt for sharks teeth outside. And the kids were thrilled they got to keep the teeth they found! Nice gift shop too with lots of kid and adult gifts. We stayed for three hours and thoroughly enjoyed it!"
John Daniels
"Stopped by here while on vacation. The family absolutely loved it. Seeing the smiles on my daughter and wife made it all worth it. Plus it's only $15 for adults. They have a great facility and even help rehabilitate sea turtles. If you're in the Outer Banks area. Put this on your list! They even have a pollinator garden & forest!"
Dustin Bennett
"Super cute Aquarium! I love Aquariums, my husband and I were married in one so of course we needed to come here. The Aquarium is on the smaller side and we went during off season so I could imagine during peak season would be pretty crazy, but regardless there is a good bit to see and do along with some really amazing creatures. Staff were great in general, very nice, willing to answer questions and super helpful. I would definitely stop back by if I was in the area! The Aquarium shop was also super cool, they have a good bit of really cute souvenirs"
Kalia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The aquarium is located at 374 Airport Rd, Manteo, NC. It's easily accessible by car, and many visitors make it a day trip from other Outer Banks towns. Parking is available on-site.
Public transportation options are limited in the Outer Banks. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the aquarium.
If you're coming from the north or south, you'll likely use US-158 and then NC-64 East towards Manteo. GPS is recommended for precise directions.
The drive through the Outer Banks itself is scenic. Once you reach Roanoke Island, the approach to the aquarium offers lovely views of the Croatan Sound.
Yes, using a GPS or mapping app with the address '374 Airport Rd, Manteo, NC' or 'North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island' will guide you directly there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally around $15 for adults and $10 for children. Check the official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, as timed entry may be required.
Some visitors mention using reciprocal memberships from other zoos or aquariums for discounts. It's worth checking the aquarium's website or local tourism sites for any available coupons.
The aquarium is typically open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. It's closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Always verify hours on their official website before visiting.
While free days are not commonly advertised, checking for reciprocal membership benefits or special event days might offer opportunities for reduced or free entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the playful river otters, the rare leucistic alligator, the STAR Center for sea turtle rehabilitation, and the impressive shark tank.
Absolutely! Kids love the interactive touch pools, the outdoor wetlands, and the engaging exhibits like the pretend sea turtle hospital.
Most visitors spend about 1 to 3 hours exploring the exhibits and enjoying the outdoor areas.
Yes, there's a fantastic outdoor wetlands area featuring alligators and otters, as well as a pier with views of the Croatan Sound.
Yes, there are interactive touch pools where you can safely touch stingrays and pencil urchins.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe or snack bar on-site offering a selection of food and beverages.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the aquarium. It's best to check their specific policy.
Manteo has several dining options, from casual eateries to seafood restaurants, located a short drive from the aquarium.
Typically, aquarium cafes offer snacks, light meals, and drinks suitable for a quick bite during your visit.
Prices at aquarium cafes can be slightly higher than off-site options, but convenient for a meal during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the animals.
The shark tank, the playful otters, the leucistic alligator, and the STAR Center offer great photo opportunities. The pier also provides scenic shots.
Yes, you can photograph the sea turtles in the STAR Center, but be mindful of any signage regarding flash photography.
Drone photography is typically not permitted within aquarium grounds or over protected wildlife areas. Always check specific regulations.
You can capture images of diverse marine life, from small fish to sharks, as well as unique animals like white alligators and rescued sea turtles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the pretend sea turtle hospital exhibit, which allows children to engage in a hands-on way with conservation. The diver in the shark tank is also a memorable experience for younger visitors. The aquarium is a manageable size, making it easy to navigate with little ones, and the gift shop offers fun souvenirs.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look into reciprocal membership discounts if you belong to another zoo or aquarium, as this can significantly reduce entry costs. Packing your own snacks or a picnic to enjoy outside the aquarium can also help save money on food expenses.
🐢 Marine Life Enthusiasts
+1The diverse exhibits, from the impressive shark tank to the local coastal habitats, offer a comprehensive look at marine biodiversity. The knowledgeable staff and volunteers are often eager to share insights, making it an enriching experience for anyone fascinated by the ocean.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The STAR Center: A Beacon of Hope for Sea Turtles
+2Through interactive exhibits, you can learn about the diagnostic process, the medical treatments administered, and the dedicated efforts of the aquarists and veterinarians. Seeing these turtles recover and eventually be released back into their natural habitat is a powerful and inspiring experience. The aquarium often shares updates on specific turtles, like 'Churro' and 'Atlas,' highlighting their recovery journeys and successful releases.
+1This deep dive into sea turtle conservation not only educates visitors but also emphasizes the importance of reducing plastic pollution and practicing responsible marine activities. It's a poignant reminder of our role in protecting these ancient mariners.
Exploring the Wetlands and Coastal Habitats
One of the undeniable stars of this area is the playful river otter exhibit. These charismatic mammals are a constant source of entertainment as they slide, swim, and interact with their environment. Equally captivating is the presence of the leucistic alligator, a rare and striking creature with its distinctive white coloration and blue eyes. Seeing these animals in a setting that mimics their natural surroundings provides a deeper appreciation for their adaptations and behaviors.
The outdoor spaces also often include a pollinator garden and a pier offering views of the Croatan Sound. These elements contribute to a holistic understanding of the coastal environment, highlighting the interconnectedness of different species and habitats. It’s a great opportunity for families to explore and learn together, making the visit both educational and fun.
A Dive into the Shark Tank Experience
+1What elevates this experience is the opportunity to witness diver interactions. During scheduled times, divers enter the tank, providing a unique perspective and often engaging with the audience. They can answer questions, point out different species, and even offer a friendly wave or 'knuckle bump' to the excited children watching from the other side of the glass. This live element adds an exciting, dynamic layer to the viewing experience.
Beyond the sharks, the tank is a vibrant ecosystem, home to numerous fish and other marine creatures that coexist with these powerful predators. It’s a testament to the complex balance of ocean life and a powerful reminder of the importance of marine conservation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit