Recently, during a weekend getaway to Cincinnati, my family and I were looking for a fun place to visit that would entertain everyone from my 2-year-old son to my husband and, of course, me. After looking through many choices we found the perfect place, the Newport Aquarium!
Upon entering the building, I knew my kids were going to have a fantastic time because they were already in awe of the enormous suspended model whale. A quick elevator ride down to the lower level and we were immersed into the World Rivers exhibit. The previous day we had gone fly fishing so we were all curious to see fish that were similar to what we had caught and what other types of fish could be found in different areas of the world. I was also happy to see each display hosted information about each fish or animal with diet, habitat, and an interesting fact (most of which my husband and I didn’t know).
Next up we entered the Shore Gallery where we had to pry my six-year-old daughter away from the Tide Pool. She loved having an interactive exhibit where she could touch a Horseshoe Crab, Welk, and a Sea Star. However, I think Shark Ray Bay may have been our overall favorite exhibit as our children have a huge interest in all types of sharks. We were even able to listen to information given by a diver inside the tank and audience members were able to ask questions as well.
Alligator Alley was another of our family’s favorite exhibits. We were amazed by the size of Mighty Mike at 14 feet in length and 800lbs and that we were able to see him at eye level just inside this exhibit. The white American Alligators were stunning to see and we were amazed to learn that they were not albino alligators.
As you walk into Canyon Falls you will see a large and wide open exhibit for the adorable otters. They were adorable and playful during our visit and we loved sitting in the viewing area to watch them. Just across from the otters was a colorful and gorgeous panther chameleon as well as a yellow monitor and large tortoises.
Just before the end of our journey we came to the Shark Bridge! Since our 2 year old was in a stroller my husband was able to go around the edge and see all the sharks and fish through the clear enclosure, but my daughter and I dared to take a walk on the wild side on the bridge! It was amazing to see everything swimming just below our feet and feel close, yet safe near these magnificent creatures!
There are plenty of exhibits that I left for you to explore for yourself, but you will love them all! Plus, right now through September 2, 2016 with the purchase of one adult ticket you can receive up to 2 child tickets for free for Sunday through Friday 4:00-7:00 pm when purchased online: (http://www.newportaquarium.com/Aquarium-Admission/Special-Offers).
No matter what time of year you make it to the area, the Newport Aquarium is open 365 days a year and has tons of fun and exciting new exhibits to explore for the entire family!
** Disclosure: I was provided complimentary passes to the Newport Aquarium for the purposes of this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and honest. **
