Most visitors can tour the aquarium in about two hours. However, if you plan to participate in aquarium programs, search for relics in the Fossil Hunt, or visit the gift shop, allow more time. All entrances, exits, restrooms and exhibits are wheelchair accessible.

Here’s all the information you’ll need to enjoy your visit. If you don’t find what you’re looking for here, contact the aquarium at (252) 473-3494, or toll free at 866-332-3475, or e-mail rimail@ncaquariums.com.

Check back frequently for updates on new exhibits, programs and events.

Maps and Directions

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is located off of Airport Rd., approximately 3 miles North of Manteo. The Aquarium is adjacent to the Dare County Regional Airport.     For directions from a specific location, call toll free 1-866-332-3475.

Exhibits
Gallery Map

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Hours & Fees

Hours:
9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily year-round
Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day

Daily Programs & Events

Special Activity programs require advance registration and a fee. This is noted on the Calendar of Events with a single asterisk (*) for advance registration, and double asterisk (**) for advance registration and fee.

Events
The Aquarium also lists Special Events on its calendar. Some require fees and advance registration, others are free to walk-in visitors. For dates and details check the calendar.

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Accommodations & Area Links

For where to stay, where to eat, and what to do while in the area,

visit the following links:

• The Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce
• The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau
• Chamber of Commerce Accomodations Guide
• The Outer Banks.Com
• The Outer Banks Visitors' Guide
• Historic Albemarle Tour
• Roanoke Island Business Assoc.
• The Lost Colony
• The Elizabethan Gardens
• Roanoke Island Festival Park

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Disability Access

All entrances, exits, exhibits and restrooms are wheelchair accessible. The Aquarium has two wheelchairs available free to visitors.

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Parking

From March through May, many school groups visit and buses often fill the parking areas. Parking areas can also fill to capacity during peak summer months. During these times, and on rainy summer days, expect to park along the Aquarium’s entrance drive.

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School Groups

In order to help provide a more rewarding experience, visits are scheduled between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. North Carolina school groups that register in advance are admitted free. Non-registered groups can be charged the standard admission rate. If the building is filled to capacity, a non-registered “drop-in” group may be asked to wait outside until more space is available.

If your school group can’t get to the Aquarium, the Aquarium can come to you through its Outreach Program, complete with live animals and a variety of topics and activities. Outreach Programs require a modest fee. For details on booking a group visit to the Aquarium, or scheduling an Outreach Program, see our Teachers & Students section.

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Food & Drinks

Snack and soft drink machines are outside the Aquarium exit doors, and in summer popular staffed concessions are available. Water fountains are next to the restrooms.

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Gift Shop

The North Carolina Aquarium Society operates the Aquarium gift shop, which offers a wide array of educational and aquatic-related items. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Posters, games, books, field guides, CDs, tapes, T-shirts, housewares, jewelry and other unique and interesting items provide a wide variety of choices. Visa, American Express, Discover, Mastercard and personal checks are accepted. Gift shop proceeds are used to support Aquarium programs and services.

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Photography & Videos

All types of photography are permitted at the Aquarium. A tip for taking photos inside the Aquarium is not to aim the camera straight at the tank. The flash will cause a light spot in your picture. Instead, position yourself so the camera is at a 45-degree angle to the window.

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Aquarium Membership

Becoming a member of the North Carolina Aquariums offers many exciting benefits. Discounts, travel opportunities and free admission to all three North Carolina Aquariums, the North Carolina Zoo and over 150 other zoos and aquariums around the country are just a few of the advantages. Your membership contribution helps support the Aquarium’s mission. An individual membership is $30 and a family membership $50. For more info on membership or to join, visit the North Carolina Aquarium Society site or click join the aquarium.

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Helpful Hints

• For a less crowded experience, fall and winter months are excellent times to visit the Aquarium.
• Rainy summer days can be very crowded.
• School group visitation is heaviest in the mornings from March through May.
• School groups that do not book visits ahead of time may be asked to wait outside until crowds decrease.
• Parking lots fill quickly during summer months.
• When taking photos inside the Aquarium, it’s best not to aim the camera straight at the tank. Flash will cause a light spot in your picture. Instead, position yourself so the camera is at a 45-degree angle to the window.
• Food and pets are not allowed in the Aquarium.
• For visitor safety, shoes are required in the building, and most Aquarium field trips require close-toed shoes.
• When registering for programs, activities, or field trips, or when booking a group, be sure to read full details on your confirmation letter so you will be prepared for an enjoyable experience.
• Check our calendar of events prior to your visit to see what programs are offered.

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Local Weather

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