Dive into Mother Ocean Day: Celebrating Five Splashy Aquariums

As Mother Ocean Day approaches on May 10th, we’re reminded of the vast, deep blue waters that connect us all. Our oceans nurture life, sustain ecosystems, and enchant us with their underwater wonders. There’s no better way to celebrate this special day than by shining a light on five remarkable aquariums across the United States. These immersive marine sanctuaries provide invaluable education, research, and conservation, and they inspire a sense of awe and responsibility. Let’s dive into the unique magic each one brings!

1. Georgia Aquarium (Atlanta, Georgia)
The largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, Georgia Aquarium is a breathtaking marvel that holds over 11 million gallons of water! Its signature attraction is Ocean Voyager, an enormous tank that allows you to glide along a moving walkway while surrounded by massive whale sharks and graceful manta rays. Visitors can explore a diverse range of aquatic environments, from a river-themed gallery to the Cold Water Quest, where beluga whales and sea otters await. Through education programs and conservation efforts, the Georgia Aquarium is committed to protecting our oceans while fostering a deeper connection between visitors and marine life.

Looking to make waves at your next special event? The Oceans Ballroom is available to host private parties that create real ripples. There are 23,000 square feet of flexible space to play with, and the Oceans Ballroom can be tailored to suit your specific event needs. Georgia Aquarium is featured in the Winistry-powered Discover Atlanta Venue Catalog for Meeting Planners!

2. Monterey Bay Aquarium (Monterey, California)
Winistry is located in California and we adore the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Nestled along California’s coastline, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is famed for its dramatic marine exhibits that mirror the neighboring Pacific Ocean. With a living kelp forest, open-sea tanks featuring shoals of sardines, and an unforgettable jellyfish gallery, this aquarium showcases a diverse ecosystem. Their Sea Otter Program is a significant effort, rehabilitating orphaned pups and returning them to the wild. Monterey Bay Aquarium continues to inspire ocean stewardship and education, raising awareness about plastic pollution, climate change, and marine protected areas. The next time you're dining out, look for the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch designation to know whether a dish is the best choice, an good alternative, or should be avoided because they are overfished or farmed in ways that harm other marine life or the environment.

3. Aquarium of the Bay (San Francisco, California)
This small but mighty aquarium is located at the iconic Pier 39 in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf and shines a light on the rich biodiversity of San Francisco Bay and its surrounding waters. It's home to over 24,000 animals from 225 different species! Visitors can marvel at mesmerizing moon jellies, sleek sharks, and playful river otters. Walk through an acrylic tunnels with sea life surround you and you'll be immersed in schools of anchovies and and bat rays gliding above. The aquarium’s dedication to environmental education and sustainable seafood practices plays a pivotal role in protecting these fragile ecosystems.

Aquarium of the Bay is featured in the Winistry-powered Local Getaways app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play. Download it find the best places to eat, stay, and do fun things throughout California and beyond.

4. National Aquarium (Baltimore, Maryland)
Our founder and CEO, Amy Wilson, grew up in Maryland and the National Aquarium in Baltimore was her first encounter with such magical places. A beacon of conservation and exploration, it is home to over 20,000 aquatic creatures across hundreds of exhibits. The Tropical Rainforest Pavilion transports you to the heart of South America, while the Blacktip Reef exhibit is a vibrant coral habitat filled with sharks, rays, and colorful fish. Their Animal Rescue Program has rescued and released hundreds of marine animals, emphasizing the vital importance of conservation. Visiting the National Aquarium isn’t just a trip; it's a journey through the world’s oceans.

5. New England Aquarium (Boston, Massachusetts)
Overlooking Boston Harbor, the New England Aquarium is a beloved institution known for its Giant Ocean Tank, a towering cylindrical exhibit housing Myrtle the green sea turtle, sharks, and tropical fish. The touch tank introduces kids to gentle rays and tide pool creatures. The aquarium's Marine Animal Rescue Team works tirelessly to rehabilitate stranded seals and sea turtles, furthering its commitment to marine conservation. Their IMAX Theater and whale-watching tours add layers of excitement and adventure.

Aquariums provide an unparalleled window into the mysteries of our oceans, offering educational and inspirational experiences for all ages. Visiting these aquariums is crucial in supporting their efforts in marine conservation, wildlife rehabilitation, and research. By investing in their programs, you’re contributing to a future where our oceans thrive.

This Mother Ocean Day, let's celebrate these marine sanctuaries and their role in connecting us to the wonders of the sea. Soak in the sights, immerse yourself in the sounds, and leave feeling inspired to cherish and protect our beautiful oceans.