Top 10 Best Aquariums in the US

There is something incredibly peaceful and serene about aquariums. Maybe it’s the bubbling of the water or the gentle swaying of the plants, but these underwater oases have a way of transporting us to another world. If you’re looking for a place to unwind, an aquarium might be just what you need.

And luckily, there are plenty of amazing aquariums located throughout the United States. From sprawling facilities with thousands of animals to more intimate settings with only a handful of tanks, there’s sure to be an aquarium that’s perfect for you.

To help you find the right one, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best aquariums in the US, based on visitor reviews and expert opinions. So, whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or a relaxing day trip, be sure to check out one of these top-rated aquariums.

List of Best Aquariums in the US

There are many great aquariums in the United States, each offering something unique and exciting for visitors. Here are ten of the best:

1. Georgia Aquarium – Atlanta, GA

The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest in the world, and it’s definitely worth a visit. Home to more than 100,000 animals, the aquarium has something for everyone. From beluga whales and whale sharks to piranhas and electric eels, you’ll be amazed at the variety of creatures on display.

And if you’re looking for an up-close encounter, the aquarium offers a number of animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours. You can even swim with dolphins! With so much to see and do, the Georgia Aquarium is a must-visit for any animal lover.

2. Shedd Aquarium – Chicago, IL

Shedd Aquarium is another great option for those looking for a large and diverse collection of animals. With more than 32,000 creatures from all over the world, you’re sure to find something fascinating at this Chicago institution.

In addition to the standard fish and reptiles, the Shedd Aquarium is also home to beluga whales, penguins, sea lions, and stingrays. And if you want to get up close and personal with the animals, the aquarium offers a number of animal encounters, including swimming with dolphins.

3. Monterey Bay Aquarium – Monterey, CA

If you’re looking for an aquarium with a focus on marine conservation, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a great option. This world-renowned facility is dedicated to protecting the ocean and its inhabitants, and it offers a number of unique exhibits and programs.

The aquarium is home to more than 35,000 animals, including sharks, octopuses, sea otters, and jellyfish. And if you want to get in the water yourself, the aquarium offers a number of behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters. You can even go cage diving with sharks!

4. Honolulu Zoo – Honolulu, HI

The Honolulu Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country, and it’s also home to a world-class aquarium. The zoo is home to more than 700 animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants. And the aquarium features a wide variety of fish, turtles, and rays.

In addition to the standard exhibits, the Honolulu Zoo also offers a number of unique experiences, such as a behind-the-scenes tour and an animal encounter program. You can even spend the night at the zoo! With so much to see and do, the Honolulu Zoo is a great option for any animal lover.

5. Bronx Zoo – Bronx, NY

The Bronx Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the country, and it’s home to more than 4,000 animals. From lions and tigers to gorillas and chimpanzees, you’ll be able to see all your favorite animals at this New York institution.

And if you want to get up close and personal with the animals, the zoo offers a number of behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters. You can even spend the night at the zoo! With so much to see and do, the Bronx Zoo is a great option for any animal lover.

6. San Diego Zoo – San Diego, CA

The San Diego Zoo is one of the most popular zoos in the country, and it’s home to more than 3,700 animals. From lions and tigers to gorillas and chimpanzees, you’ll be able to see all your favorite animals at this California institution.

And if you want to get up close and personal with the animals, the zoo offers a number of behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters. You can even spend the night at the zoo! With so much to see and do, the San Diego Zoo is a great option for any animal lover.

7. St. Louis Zoo – St. Louis, MO

The St. Louis Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country, and it’s home to more than 18,000 animals. From lions and tigers to gorillas and chimpanzees, you’ll be able to see all your favorite animals at this Missouri institution.

And if you want to get up close and personal with the animals, the zoo offers a number of behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters. You can even spend the night at the zoo! With so much to see and do, the St. Louis Zoo is a great option for any animal lover.

8. Zoo Miami – Miami, FL

Zoo Miami is one of the best zoos in the country, and it’s home to more than 3,000 animals. From lions and tigers to gorillas and chimpanzees, you’ll be able to see all your favorite animals at this Florida institution.

And if you want to get up close and personal with the animals, the zoo offers a number of behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters. You can even spend the night at the zoo! With so much to see and do, Zoo Miami is a great option for any animal lover.

9. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere – Nashville, TN

The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is one of the best zoos in the country, and it’s home to more than 2,500 animals. From lions and tigers to gorillas and chimpanzees, you’ll be able to see all your favorite animals at this Tennessee institution.

And if you want to get up close and personal with the animals, the zoo offers a number of behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters. You can even spend the night at the zoo! With so much to see and do, the Nashville Zoo is a great option for any animal lover.

10. Phoenix Zoo – Phoenix, AZ

The Phoenix Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country, and it’s home to more than 1,400 animals. From lions and tigers to gorillas and chimpanzees, you’ll be able to see all your favorite animals at this Arizona institution.

And if you want to get up close and personal with the animals, the zoo offers a number of behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters. You can even spend the night at the zoo! With so much to see and do, the Phoenix Zoo is a great option for any animal lover.