Maria Mitchell Aquarium
A charming, interactive aquarium focused on local marine life, renowned for its passionate interns and hands-on exhibits for children.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intern attention
Maria Mitchell Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intern attention
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, interactive aquarium focused on local marine life, renowned for its passionate interns and hands-on exhibits for children.
"The interns are amazing and make the experience so special for kids!"
🎯 Engage with Interns
The interns are incredibly knowledgeable and make the experience special for kids. Ask them questions!
✋ Hands-On Fun
Don't miss the touch tanks! Kids love interacting with the sea creatures.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Touch Tanks
Main exhibit area
Get up close and personal with fascinating sea creatures. Perfect for little hands to explore and learn.

Horseshoe Crab Encounters
Dedicated exhibit
Discover the unique horseshoe crab and learn about its importance and how to protect it.

Intern-Led Feeding Demonstrations
Various tanks
Watch aquarists feed the marine animals and learn about their unique behaviors and diets.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Kid-Centric Fun
Intern-Led Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Engage with Interns
The interns are incredibly knowledgeable and make the experience special for kids. Ask them questions!
✋ Hands-On Fun
Don't miss the touch tanks! Kids love interacting with the sea creatures.
🦀 Learn About Horseshoe Crabs
Discover the fascinating horseshoe crab and its role in marine conservation.
🐠 Feeding Frenzy Fun
Catch the feeding demonstrations for an exciting glimpse into marine animal diets.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Engage with Interns
The interns are incredibly knowledgeable and make the experience special for kids. Ask them questions!
✋ Hands-On Fun
Don't miss the touch tanks! Kids love interacting with the sea creatures.
🦀 Learn About Horseshoe Crabs
Discover the fascinating horseshoe crab and its role in marine conservation.
🐠 Feeding Frenzy Fun
Catch the feeding demonstrations for an exciting glimpse into marine animal diets.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Maria Mitchell Aquarium for its engaging and educational experience, particularly for children. The knowledgeable and friendly interns are a standout feature, making the small aquarium feel personal and impactful. While it's not a large-scale attraction, its interactive nature and dedicated staff make it a highly recommended stop for families.
"Wow! 100% recommend stopping by this really cute little aquarium with kids. My 2 year old was amazed and loved holding and touching the creatures. The best part was actually how amazing the interns were. They walked us tank to tank making sure my son was engaged and got to learn about all the creatures there. Thank you so much to the interns for making it an amazing visit 🙏"
Sarah Schall
"This is a place to bring kids. If we had kids with us it would probably be a 4 or 5 star rating. The Aquarium is not an aquarium for adults. It will however teach kids about the importance and relevance of marine life."
darrin Hagerty
"Small but awesome. The kids loved it. I did too. The staff is super friendly and engaging."
ilya tsymbal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Maria Mitchell Aquarium is located in Nantucket, accessible by ferry from Hyannis. Once on the island, it's a short walk or taxi ride from the ferry terminal. Many visitors find it convenient to explore Nantucket town on foot after visiting the aquarium.
Parking in Nantucket can be challenging, especially during peak season. It's often best to rely on walking or local transportation once you arrive on the island. Consider parking further out and walking if you drive to the ferry.
Yes, strollers are generally manageable, but Nantucket's historic streets can be cobblestoned. The aquarium itself is relatively small, so navigating with a stroller should be feasible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices are very reasonable, making it an affordable option for families. Check their official website for the most current pricing details.
While advance booking isn't always necessary, it's a good idea to check their website, especially during busy summer months, to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the Maria Mitchell Association's official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
While the aquarium is primarily geared towards children and offers a fantastic educational experience for them, adults can still appreciate the interactive exhibits and the passion of the staff.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a variety of local marine life, including fish, invertebrates, and other fascinating sea creatures native to the Nantucket waters. The touch tanks are a major draw.
Yes, the aquarium often hosts special programs, including feeding demonstrations and educational talks led by their passionate interns. These are great for all ages.
A visit to the Maria Mitchell Aquarium is usually quite short, often around an hour, especially if you're focusing on the interactive elements. It's a perfect addition to a day trip.
The interns are highly praised for their engaging personalities, extensive knowledge, and dedication to educating visitors, especially children, about marine life.
Absolutely! The aquarium features touch tanks where visitors, particularly children, can safely interact with and learn about various marine animals under supervision.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the aquarium. However, it's always a good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography, which can disturb the animals.
The touch tanks and exhibits featuring unique creatures like the horseshoe crab offer great photo opportunities. The enthusiastic interns also make for memorable shots!
While generally permitted, be respectful of the animals and other guests. Avoid disruptive photography practices. Check for any specific signage or ask staff if unsure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for about an hour here, making it ideal for a day trip or a break from other Nantucket activities. The hands-on nature of the exhibits ensures kids stay captivated. It’s a place where they can truly connect with the marine world in a fun and accessible way.
📚 Educational Travelers
This aquarium is more than just a collection of tanks; it's a hub for marine science education. The staff's passion for conservation is evident, making it an inspiring visit for anyone interested in the natural world. It’s a great place to supplement your understanding of coastal environments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of the Aquarium: Its Interns
These interns are not just guides; they are educators dedicated to conservation. They share insights into the lives of the animals, their habitats, and the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. Their personal stories and dreams of working in conservation add a unique and inspiring layer to the aquarium visit. This personal touch is what elevates the experience from a simple viewing to a truly impactful learning opportunity.
If you visit, make sure to interact with the interns. They are eager to share their passion and can offer fascinating facts and stories that you won't find in any guidebook. Their dedication is a testament to the Maria Mitchell Association's commitment to marine education and conservation.
Interactive Learning for Young Explorers
The size of the aquarium, while small, is perfectly suited for little ones. It means they can explore the entire space without getting overwhelmed or tired. The exhibits are designed to be visually stimulating and easy to understand for younger audiences. The staff and interns are adept at tailoring their explanations to suit the attention span and comprehension of children, ensuring they get the most out of their visit.
Beyond the touch tanks, the aquarium offers opportunities to learn about specific species, like the fascinating horseshoe crab. These educational moments, combined with the interactive elements, make the Maria Mitchell Aquarium a highly recommended spot for a memorable family outing on Nantucket.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit