Let us make your event unforgettable.

Whether you are hosting a rehearsal dinner in front of the exotic fishes, a wedding reception by the stunning Cape Fear Shoals gallery, or an anniversary party in our lush Cape Fear Conservatory, we can meet your needs.

The Aquarium can accommodate up to 2,000 people. Choose from four venues:

• Entire Aquarium
• Upper Mezzanine and Lower Cape Fear Shoals
• Cape Fear Conservatory
• Exotic Aquatics Gallery, Deck and Garden

Entire Aquarium

The Aquarium allows for the rental of the Entire Aquarium with capability of moving your guests from gallery to gallery as you transition from the ceremony to cocktails to the reception. Imagine the flexibility of your guests being able to stroll the exhibits during your special event. The Entire Aquarium includes the magnificent Upper Mezzanine and Lower Cape Fear Shoals Exhibit, the enchanting Cape Fear Conservatory, the mysterious Exotic Aquatics Gallery, and the fun of a tropical deck and garden.

Capacity: 300 Seated or 2000 Strolling

Upper Mezzanine and Lower Cape Fear Shoals

The Aquarium’s most popular rental option effortlessly combines the upper and lower level of the Marine Building, in front of the expansive Cape Fear Shoals exhibit. You may choose to utilize the upper level for your ceremony site and proceed to the lower level for a seated dinner, dancing and cocktails.

If you are taking your vows on a nearby beach, we are the perfect backup location for your ceremony in case of inclement weather. Your event can be designed to custom fit your needs.

Capacity: 300 Seated or 1000 Strolling

Cape Fear Conservatory

The Cape Fear Conservatory features the flora and fauna found in the Cape Fear River Basin. Nearly ¾ of an acre, the Conservatory’s glass roof, sloping brick walkways and low-level lighting make an enchanting setting for a unique and elegant reception site.

This option is especially nice in the fall and spring months and now includes seating in our beautifully renovated lobby with its unique sea turtle water feature.

Capacity: 200 Strolling in Conservatory; 60 Seated in lobby
(For your knowledge and their safety, please be aware of free-roaming quail.)

Lobby (included with Cape Fear Conservatory)

Our Cape Fear Conservatory option now includes seating in our beautifully renovated lobby with its unique sea turtle water feature. Perfect for smaller events, the lobby provides a seating area for up to 60 people.

Your caterer may also use this space for food and beverage stations, allowing for more strolling in the Conservatory.

Capacity: 60 Seated; 200 Strolling in Conservatory

Exotic Aquatics Gallery, Deck and Garden

The Exotic Aquatics Gallery, Deck and Garden contains the Pacific reef exhibit with live coral, vibrant Hawaiian fishes, gigantic lobsters, poison dart frogs and much more. This intimate space is designed to accommodate an event or reception of up to 60. It provides access to the deck and garden.

Capacity: 60 Inside Guests - additional 72 Guests outside (weather permitting) not available on Saturdays.

Crystal Spadefish

Need additional decorations? Integrate the Aquarium theme utilizing our Crystal Spadefish centerpiece at your event. Ask for details when booking.

Contact Special Events

For more information and availability, email: terry.bryant@ncaquariums.com or phone: (910) 458-8257, ext: 218