Acuario Nacional
Discover marine wonders at the Acuario Nacional, a hub for conservation, education, and family fun in Santo Domingo.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Acuario Nacional
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover marine wonders at the Acuario Nacional, a hub for conservation, education, and family fun in Santo Domingo.
"A fun and affordable outing with diverse marine life, perfect for families."
Check for Closures
Some areas might be under renovation. Check recent posts for updates before you go! :informationdeskperson:
No Outside Food Allowed
Pack light! You can't bring your own food, but snacks are available inside. :apple:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Marine Life Exhibits
Explore diverse aquatic species, from colorful fish to impressive sea turtles. A visual treat for all ages.
Ocean Tunnel
Walk through a tunnel surrounded by marine life, offering an immersive underwater experience.
Manatee and Whale Skeletons
Discover impressive skeletal remains of marine giants, offering a glimpse into their past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check for Renovations
Plan for Limited Food Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check for Closures
Some areas might be under renovation. Check recent posts for updates before you go! :informationdeskperson:
No Outside Food Allowed
Pack light! You can't bring your own food, but snacks are available inside. :apple:
Learn Spanish for Signs
Most exhibit signs are in Spanish, so brush up if you want to learn more! :books:
Tip the Parking Attendant
A small tip might ensure your car is watched while you explore. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check for Closures
Some areas might be under renovation. Check recent posts for updates before you go! :informationdeskperson:
No Outside Food Allowed
Pack light! You can't bring your own food, but snacks are available inside. :apple:
Learn Spanish for Signs
Most exhibit signs are in Spanish, so brush up if you want to learn more! :books:
Tip the Parking Attendant
A small tip might ensure your car is watched while you explore. :moneybag:
Bring Entertainment for Kids
The play area might be under maintenance, so bring toys for little ones. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Acuario Nacional to be a fun and affordable outing, especially for families, with a good variety of marine life to observe. While some areas like the ocean tunnel may be under renovation and upkeep in certain tanks could be improved, the overall experience is positive, offering educational value and a pleasant atmosphere.
"Was a really fun outing, I really enjoyed myself seeing the marine life. The tunnel was under construction so couldn't really get the view as if your underwater but still fun. The manatee wasn't there either nut still 5 stars. I had a blast"
Nate Neel
"We enjoy the place, the only thing was that some areas was closed without any previous advice."
Curiosi 3
"Some things have changed. You cannot enter food anymore and some species are nowhere to be found but they have added some new stuff. The place is still pretty and more clean. Let's see how much better they can make it."
Rainel Matos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Acuario Nacional is located at Av. España #75, Santo Domingo Este. Many visitors arrive by taxi or ride-sharing services. Public transportation options might be available, but checking local routes is recommended.
Yes, parking is available. Some visitors suggest tipping the parking attendant to ensure your car is watched.
The aquarium is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. It's always a good idea to verify these hours closer to your visit.
No, outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the aquarium. There are snack vendors available on-site.
While specific accessibility details can vary, the general layout is a large pavilion, suggesting it's likely manageable. However, it's best to confirm directly with the venue for any specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are quite affordable. Children typically pay around $100 DOP (up to 12 years old), and adults around $150 DOP. Foreigner rates might be slightly higher but still considered a good value.
Advance booking is usually not required for general admission. You can typically purchase tickets upon arrival.
The Acuario Nacional offers internship programs for biology students, suggesting potential for educational group visits. It's advisable to contact them directly for group rates or student discounts.
Some visitors have noted that certain areas might be closed without prior notice. It's recommended to check their social media or call ahead for the most current information.
Re-entry policies can vary. It's best to clarify this with staff at the entrance if you anticipate needing to leave and return.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a variety of fish species, sea turtles, and potentially other marine creatures. Some visitors have noted that certain species might be missing or that the water quality in some tanks needs improvement.
The ocean tunnel has been reported as being under construction or closed for maintenance by several visitors. It's a highlight for many, so checking its status beforehand is a good idea.
The aquarium focuses on conservation, research, and education. They offer internship programs for biology students and have an auditorium, though not all visitors check it out.
The play area, which was once a splash pad, appears to be dry and may require bringing your own entertainment for children, as it might be under maintenance.
Yes, the aquarium offers opportunities to photograph marine life. The property also features mosaics and large murals that are visually appealing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are snack vendors selling refreshments inside, a full-service restaurant is not typically mentioned. It's best to plan for meals outside the aquarium.
Visitors are advised that outside food is not allowed. However, some suggest bringing blankets to relax in the green area, implying a possibility for enjoying purchased snacks.
Specific snack options are not detailed, but it's generally understood that typical aquarium fare like drinks and light snacks would be available.
Being located in Santo Domingo, there are numerous dining options available in the surrounding areas, ranging from local eateries to more international cuisine.
While not explicitly stated, prices for snacks at attractions are generally moderate. It's a good idea to budget accordingly if you plan to purchase items there.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Acuario Nacional. Many visitors share photos and videos online.
While not explicitly stated, be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography directly at the animals, as this can disturb them. Some music used in social media videos might have copyright restrictions.
The marine life exhibits, the ocean tunnel (when open), and the exterior murals and mosaics offer great photo opportunities.
For personal use, tripods are usually acceptable, but for professional shoots, it's best to inquire with the aquarium management beforehand.
There is no mention of official photo packages being offered. Visitors typically rely on their own devices for capturing memories.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Be prepared for limited food options by packing snacks or planning meals around your visit. Since the play area might be under maintenance, bring along some toys or activities to keep the little ones entertained. While the ocean tunnel is a major draw, be aware it might be closed for renovations, so manage expectations. The affordable entry fee makes it a budget-friendly option for a fun-filled day.
💰 Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers: Consider visiting during weekdays to potentially avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Since outside food isn't allowed, bringing a reusable water bottle and purchasing snacks sparingly can help keep costs down. The surrounding area of Santo Domingo also offers many affordable local eateries for meals before or after your visit.
📚 Students and Educational Groups
For educational visits: Contact the Acuario Nacional directly to inquire about group rates, guided tours, or specific educational programs they might offer. While exhibit signs are in Spanish, the visual learning experience is significant, and students can gain valuable insights into aquatic ecosystems.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conservation and Education Focus
For students and those passionate about marine biology, the aquarium offers internship programs and opportunities for hands-on experience. This educational aspect is highlighted by the presence of an auditorium, suggesting a commitment to disseminating knowledge about the ocean's wonders and the importance of its preservation.
While some visitors have noted areas needing maintenance or improvements in water clarity, the core mission of conservation and education remains central to the Acuario Nacional's identity. It aims to foster a deeper appreciation for marine life among visitors of all ages.
Visitor Experience and Amenities
Amenities include a play area, though it has been noted as being in disrepair or under maintenance, prompting visitors to bring their own entertainment for children. Additionally, there's a paved walkway with ocean views, offering a scenic spot, though it can be quite sunny. The property itself is well-maintained with decorative mosaics and murals adding to the aesthetic.
Despite some areas being under construction or requiring updates, the overall sentiment from visitors is positive, often highlighting the value for money and the enjoyment derived from observing the aquatic displays.
Navigating Potential Challenges
Another point to consider is the food policy, as outside food is not permitted, and the on-site options might be limited. Planning meals before or after your visit is a practical tip for many families.
While the aquarium is generally affordable, some reviews mention that the water quality in certain tanks could be improved, and general upkeep in some sections might be lacking. However, many visitors still find the experience worthwhile due to the low cost and the opportunity to see marine life, especially when combined with other activities or a relaxed approach to any temporary closures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit