1) How long does it take to tour the Aquarium?

It can take approximately 2 hours to tour the Aquarium. If you plan to participate in any programs or events, please allow yourself additional time.

2) When is the best time to visit?

For a less crowded experience, fall and winter months are excellent times to visit the Aquarium.

3) What types of disability access do you have?

All entrances, exits, exhibits and restrooms are wheel chair accessible. The Aquarium has several wheel chairs. Pocketalker personal amplifiers are available to assist our guests free of charge. Inquire about availability with our visitor services staff.

4) Where do we park?

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 in our overflow parking lot.

5) Do you allow photography and videotaping at the Aquarium?

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.

6) Are food and drink allowed in the Aquarium?

To ensure animal health and safety, the Aquarium does not allow food or drink inside the building. Snack and soft drink machines are available outside the Aquarium exit doors, as well as an on-site vendor that offers a variety of food/drink options. We ask that all visitors eat outside while enjoying the wonderful weather.

7) Who do I contact if I have lost something at the Aquarium?

Lost and found inquiries can be made with our Visitor Services Coordinator at 252-473-3494, ext. 225. The Aquarium keeps found items for 30 days before donating them to local charities.

8) What type of payment does the Aquarium accept? Is ID required?

The Aquarium accepts cash, traveler’s checks, Master Card and Visa as payment for admission fees. ID is required when paying with a credit card or traveler’s checks.

9) How do I get there?

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is located on 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.

10) How do I register for programs?

To register for a program, please call our registrar at 252-473-3494 x232. If the registrar is unable to answer your call, please leave a message and they will call you back as soon as possible.

11) Do you provide strollers? Coat racks?

The Aquarium does not have a coat room or strollers.

12) Can my family get a group rate?

Group rates are for out-of-state school groups and civic organizations. They are not available for large family groups.

13) How do I find out what activities are available while I’m visiting?

To find out what programming, events, and activities are scheduled during your visit please visit our calendar. If you have further questions, please call 252-473-3494.

14) When do you feed the sharks?

The sharks are fed on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. However, due to the method we use to feed our sharks, visitors are not able to view a feeding unless they go behind the scenes. If you are interested in seeing a shark feeding, consider signing up for our special activities program, Snack with the Sharks.

15) I’m planning a school group visit.  How do I register and pay,  and what are the policies regarding    chaperones, etc.?

School group reservations should be made at least two weeks in advance with our Aquarium Registrar at 252-473-3494 x232. Registered NC students and school personnel are admitted free. All non-staff chaperones receive a 50%  discount on regular admission fees. Registered out-of-state school groups receive a 15% discount off regular admission prices. Group payments are expected at the time of arrival and in the form of a single transaction. All group members must check in with admissions staff and enter together in order to qualify for group discounts.

16) Are pets allowed into the Aquarium? What is the Aquarium’s pet policy?

Pets are not allowed into the Aquarium in order to ensure the health and safety of our animals. Also, the Aquarium discourages bringing animals to the Aquarium and leaving them in cars. Our weather is frequently hot and humid, and animals in cars do not handle this well. If you have brought your pet with you on vacation, we highly recommend leaving it at your house while you enjoy the Aquarium.