Ripley’s Aquarium is one of several cities’ most popular tourist attractions, captivating millions of visitors with its stunning aquatic exhibits and engaging experiences. Whether you’re in the heart of Toronto, Canada, or near the shores of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Ripley’s Aquariums offer an unforgettable dive into the world beneath the surface. Each location offers unique experiences, and the aquariums stand out for their commitment to education, conservation, and entertainment.
The Origins of Ripley’s Aquarium
Ripley’s Aquarium is part of the Ripley Entertainment franchise, widely known for its “Believe It or Not!” museums and other attractions. The first Ripley’s Aquarium was opened in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, in 1997, followed by locations in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Toronto, Canada. These aquariums have quickly become famous for their extensive variety of marine life and engaging exhibits.
The vision behind Ripley’s Aquariums was to create immersive environments where visitors could explore and learn about aquatic ecosystems. The aquariums were designed to provide entertainment while raising awareness of the importance of ocean conservation. With more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space at each location, it offers one of the most comprehensive aquarium experiences in the world.
Exhibits that Make Ripley’s Aquarium Stand Out
Each Ripley’s Aquarium location features many exhibits that showcase worldwide marine life. The exhibits are carefully curated to take visitors through different aquatic habitats, from freshwater rivers and lakes to the vast, deep ocean.
Dangerous Lagoon
The Dangerous Lagoon is one of the most popular exhibits at Ripley’s Aquarium. This massive tunnel takes visitors under a large tank filled with sharks, stingrays, and other predatory fish. Walking through the glass tunnel, you’ll feel underwater, surrounded by these fascinating creatures. The sharks, gliding just inches away, are a thrilling sight that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
Ray Bay
Ray Bay is another crowd favorite at Ripley’s Aquarium, where you can get up close and personal with several species of stingrays. Visitors can touch the rays in some locations as they glide gracefully through the water. These gentle creatures are known for their smooth texture and curious nature, making Ray Bay an exciting interactive experience for children and adults.
Planet Jellies
Ripley’s Aquarium’s “Planet Jellies” exhibit is a mesmerizing display of various jellyfish species. These otherworldly creatures float effortlessly through illuminated tanks, creating a captivating ethereal scene. The changing colors of the lights in the jellyfish tanks enhance the beauty of their transparent bodies, making this exhibit a highlight for photographers and marine life enthusiasts alike.
Rainbow Reef
The vibrant colors of the Rainbow Reef at Ripley’s Aquarium transport visitors to the world’s tropical coral reefs. This exhibit features an impressive collection of brightly colored tropical fish swimming around a lively coral reef. The dazzling display of marine biodiversity reminds visitors of the beauty and fragility of coral reef ecosystems, many of which are under threat due to climate change and pollution.
Discovery Center
The Discovery Center offers a hands-on learning experience for families visiting Ripley’s Aquarium. This interactive area is designed for younger visitors, with touch tanks, educational displays, and activities that teach children about marine life in a fun and engaging way. Kids can touch starfish, horseshoe crabs, and other marine creatures while learning about their habitats and behaviors.
Conservation and Education at Ripley’s Aquarium
Beyond entertainment, Ripley’s Aquarium is dedicated to conservation and education efforts. Each Aquarium actively participates in marine research, species preservation, and public education about the environment. The goal is to promote a better understanding of the world’s oceans and aquatic ecosystems, helping to inspire a new generation of conservationists.
Ripley’s Aquariums have partnerships with several marine conservation organizations. These partnerships focus on rehabilitating injured or endangered species and protecting critical habitats such as coral reefs and mangroves. Additionally, the aquariums host educational programs, school tours, and workshops to foster awareness about marine biology and environmental sustainability.
One of the most notable educational experiences Ripley’s Aquarium offers is its “Sleep with the Sharks” program. This program allows visitors to spend the night at the Aquarium, where they can sleep in the Dangerous Lagoon tunnel, surrounded by sharks and other sea creatures. It’s an unforgettable experience that helps teach visitors about the importance of shark conservation and dispels common myths about these often misunderstood predators.
The Unique Locations of Ripley’s Aquariums
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada – Toronto
Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada opened in 2013 and quickly became a must-visit attraction in the city. The Aquarium is at the base of the iconic CN Tower, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city’s top landmarks. It features over 16,000 aquatic animals across nine galleries, including the famous Dangerous Lagoon, Ray Bay, and Canadian Waters exhibits.
The “Canadian Waters” exhibit showcases marine life native to Canada’s lakes and coastal regions, offering a local perspective that sets this Aquarium apart from others. Visitors can marvel at giant lobsters, sea anemones, and fish species inhabiting cold Arctic waters.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies – Gatlinburg
Nestled in the picturesque Smoky Mountains, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers a unique blend of mountain scenery and underwater exploration. Opened in 2000, this Aquarium is often ranked as one of the top aquariums in the U.S. It features a range of exhibits, including the Tropical Rainforest and Gallery of the Seas.
In addition to its stunning exhibits, the Smokies is known for its interactive experiences. Visitors can participate in “Penguin Encounters,” where they can get up close with a colony of African penguins or explore the “Shark Lagoon” on a glass-bottom boat.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach
The original Ripley’s Aquarium, located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, remains a beloved destination for tourists and locals alike. Known for its family-friendly attractions, the Aquarium offers exhibits like “Friendship Flats,” where guests can touch stingrays, and the “Living Gallery,” showcasing some of the most unique and rare aquatic species.
The Myrtle Beach location also strongly focuses on education, offering programs like summer camps, behind-the-scenes tours, and specialized workshops. This emphasis on learning makes Myrtle Beach a popular school field trip destination.
Conclusion: An Immersive Aquatic Adventure
Ripley’s Aquarium is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a gateway to the fascinating world of marine life. Whether you’re mesmerized by the graceful movements of jellyfish, thrilled by the proximity of sharks, or intrigued by the educational exhibits, Ripley’s Aquarium offers something for everyone. With a commitment to conservation and education, these aquariums entertain and inspire a deeper appreciation for our planet’s oceans.
If you plan to visit one, be prepared for an immersive experience that will leave you with a greater understanding and admiration for the creatures that call the ocean home. Whether you’re exploring the tunnels of Dangerous Lagoon or learning about the delicate balance of coral reef ecosystems, a trip to Ripley’s Aquarium is an unforgettable journey beneath the surface.
