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September 2024 by Colin McIntire
This is a beautiful little gem of an aquarium. As somebody with a professional background in such things, I wasn’t concerned about the welfare of any of the animals, who seemed happy and healthy (especially the otters), and the creative exhibits and signage were engaging and informative. One highlight was a young loggerhead sea turtle from their rescue program with an interpreter there giving everybody context. I was excited to see that they participate in Species Survival Plans and the Saving Animals From Extinction program, and there was a wonderful focus on local ecosystems and conservation efforts with the outdoor nature walk as well. There’s room for improvement as with any such institution, but there’s also a lot that other aquariums could learn from this “small” aquarium.
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September 2024 by Charles Young Jr
Make sure you get a reservation before you go. We had to leave because we didn't have a reservation and the next available was 2 hours, so next time we will know to get a reservation.
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September 2024 by galindo Solitario
Primera ves q estube este agosto 2024 so amazing that the perfect place I'm gonna get back next year because I like
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September 2024 by K E
Great small/mid-sized aquarium with a lot of variety. Staff very friendly and eager to teach. Walking paths on the outside really pleasant and well kept. Food available was filling, fair price for tourism (that is, a bit pricy, but not exorbitant... I think it was $11 for hot dog, fries, drink). Playground could really use some shade on it though, and would love if there was a safe walking path down to the ferry.
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September 2024 by Kathy Hawk
You must buy tickets in advance on line. Not great for tourist who don't realize this. I just wanted to go to the gift shop for souvenirs as I have visited the aquarium on several summer trips. I had to have a security guard bring me in the back way and only one of us could go in. It's like they don't want our money unless we buy tickets.
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September 2024 by Kiawanna Isler
Beautiful & Fun
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September 2024 by Brett and Tammy Simpson
Excellent place to take your kids. Not too busy even on holidays
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September 2024 by David
Good pricing and a nice quick visit for kids was great!
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September 2024 by Noel McDowell
Had a lovely visit to this facility with my two little ones and extended family. We did buy our tickets ahead of time and that was a simple process. Pleased with the amount of aquatic species there was to see. My 2 year old loved the shrimps and the big lobster and pretty much all of it to be honest. I was surprised to see the decent sized shark they had. The gift shop is nice as well and there is a nice little play area outside for little ones. Definitely recommend this place!!! If you have young kids they will love it!!
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August 2024 by Alexandra Golden-Lyons
As a coastal native I’ve been to FFA many times growing up and even volunteered there in high school. This time we went with our infant.
Pros: Stroller friendly, volunteers and workers are extremely nice, exhibits were as expected, and parking is free and easily accessible (during week visit).
Cons: Ticket purchasing when there is difficult (you have to be on their WIFI to get any reception), some water exhibits clearly need to be cleaned (lots of scum).
It also goes to say if you haven’t been to FFA before, it’s not a large aquarium. I think we walked it in an hour. We could’ve stayed in certain spots for our infant longer but he was getting fussy. If you’re an adult and going, it’s maybe a 20min max experience… very quick to walk thru. However we enjoyed the time.
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August 2024 by PATEL VRUSHIT
Very nice place, with good management. This place for everyone who wants to observe sea life very closely. After spending good time here beautiful seaside waiting for you.
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August 2024 by Danna Gitchel
Been going to this aquarium when I visit the area for the last 25 years. It has changed in that time, but not really in the last 15 years. Except the price. I do truly enjoy it, love the preservation aspect, however, wish there was more exhibits. Wish there was more hands on with touching fish. Wish there was more seating to watch fish. And it could be more affordable. Additionally, you have to make a reservation online and cannot buy tickets at the window. That's kind of annoying. And the picnic area outside in the parking lot we ate at while waiting for our reservation time was ant hill infested. So that wasn't fun. Maybe could use some seating at the front? Or open the playground and outdoor path up to visit for BEFORE your reservation starts. Overall, seeing the fish is enjoyable. Definitely worth a trip when in the area.
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August 2024 by Lisa B
Very educational but fun experience! You can buy tickets online and pick your time which makes it super convenient! We went right when they opened and it wasn’t busy. They have a great indoor walk through with sea creatures and frogs and etc. We enjoyed the outdoor walk too. We saw turtles, alligator and a bald eagle named Maverick. Lots of educational information out there too. They have an outdoor play area for the kids. There’s a snack bar with burgers, fries, chicken tenders etc. they also have ice cream and frozen treats and picnic tables. They offer bus parking and huge parking with additional parking available so I feel like parking isn’t an issue! They have a gift shop with a good selection. We felt it was worth the money! We did get bit by mosquitoes outside so bug spray is a good idea.
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August 2024 by Faitheroni Berja-Taylor
It was an okay aquarium, not many animals to showcase.
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August 2024 by James Polino
Great experience with lots of exhibits and scheduled events. The otters absolutely steal the show, they are wonderful to watch and the kids will love them!
Definitely worth the trip to Fort Fisher.
