Best Mystic Aquarium Day Trips & Things to Do

The Connecticut marine facility features more than 300 species of aquatic life including the only Beluga whales in New England and is one of the few aquariums in the United States to have Stellar sea lions. Mystic Aquarium was established in 1973 and merged with Ballard's Institute for Exploration in 1999. Its exhibits include Beluga Whales, African Penguins, Jellies: The Ocean in Motion, Arctic Watch, Scales & Tails, Foxwoods Marine Theater Show, Nautilus Live Theater, Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below and 4-D Theater. The aquarium gift shop features paintings done by the resident African penguins. Mystic Aquarium also offers animal encounters.