Bookable
Your visit, considered
Make room for
a little wonder.
A practical guide to the New England Aquarium,
from planning your ticket to finding your way.

Before you go
The details for a good day
Plan your visit to the New England Aquarium
Opening times, useful amenities and a few things to know before you arrive.
Opening times
All times are local to Boston.
- Weekdays
- 09:00–17:00 · Monday to FridayFall hours; last entry 1 hour 20 minutes before closing
- Weekends
- 09:00–18:00 · Saturday and SundayHours change with the seasons; your ticket shows your entry time
Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.
Finding the aquarium
The aquarium stands on Central Wharf overlooking Boston Harbor, a short walk from Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, the North End and the Financial District.
1 Central WharfBoston, MA 02110, USA
- By T: the Aquarium stop on the Blue Line is about 100 yards away; State Street (Orange Line), Government Center (Green Line) and South Station (Red Line) are 8 to 12 minutes on foot.
- By car: the aquarium has no parking of its own, but several garages are within 0.3 miles; ask about validation at the Information Desk.
- Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.
Useful stops along the way
Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:
- Elevators on level 1, in the West Wing and outside the Harbor View Café.
- Free wheelchairs to borrow, and sensory kits at the Information Desk.
- Lockers to rent; there is no stroller check.
- The Harbor View Café on level 2 and a gift shop.
Travel light: there is nowhere to check strollers, and food is not allowed in the exhibit areas. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.
A visit that works for you
The aquarium is accessible regardless of physical ability, with elevators on level 1, in the West Wing and outside the Harbor View Café, and many tanks that reach the floor or have eye-level viewing. Wheelchairs can be borrowed free with an ID, and a quiet space is available in the lower West Wing.
- Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
- Strollers are welcome, but there is nowhere to check them, and some areas are reached by elevator.
- Service dogs are welcome; emotional support animals are not. Ask aquarium staff for assistance during your visit.
Enjoy the aquarium thoughtfully
- Arrive on time for your entry slot; there is no time limit once you are inside.
- Food is not allowed in the exhibit areas, although water is.
- Follow staff guidance at the touch tank.
- You can leave and come back in; keep your ticket to show on re-entry.
- Supervise children and give others room at the windows.
A little care helps protect the animals and keeps the aquarium calm for everyone.
Make time for a pause
The streets around Faneuil Hall and the waterfront have cafés and restaurants for a meal before or after your visit.
- Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
- Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
- Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.
Water fountains and bottle refill stations are available inside.
A few details worth planning
- Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
- Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
- Start in the right place: arrive up to 10 minutes before your entry time and follow your ticket’s instructions.
- Come ready to explore: comfortable shoes and a charged phone for your mobile ticket make the visit easier.
- Leave space to linger: allow time for the four levels of exhibits and the daily presentations.
Visitor information checked 10 November 2026. Opening times and facilities can change; follow the date, time and instructions on your issued ticket.

Bring the essentials
Check the current visitor guidance before you travel.
- Comfortable shoes
- Charged phone
- Your mobile ticket
- Your booking details