Aquarium & Zoo Guide: 8 of the Best Aquariums in the U.S (2025)

Posted on July 10, 2025

A close-up of a turtle partially submerged in water. The turtle has a textured, mottled shell and patterned skin. It is surrounded by gently rippling water, reflecting the sunlight. The turtle appears calm and serene, with its body mostly above the water's surface as it moves slowly. The background is softly blurred, emphasizing the turtle's detailed features.

Beyond theme parks and thrilling adventures, plants and animals are among the most interesting things that we'll never get tired of viewing. Fortunately, the US is home to massive zoos and aquariums that house the rarest species of wildlife and marine life. If you're fascinated by flora and fauna, visiting the aquariums and zoos in your town will give you a fantastic experience.

To help you pick a place to visit, we created this list of top zoos and the best aquariums in the country. This list is short and sweet, so you can easily choose the best marine and wildlife haven for your next adventure. These zoos and aquariums feature a wide range of animal species and educational exhibits for all ages. Every zoo and aquarium on this list is super worth it. Trust us!

What makes a zoo or aquarium great?

The best zoos and aquariums really focus on giving visitors an entertaining and informative experience. They display a variety of animals or aquatic creatures in habitats that closely resemble their natural environments. Healthy and happy animals are strong indicators of a great zoo and aquarium. Plus, they usually have comprehensive conservation projects and research going on to help protect endangered species and their surroundings, which really enhances their offer.

It’s all about creating fun experiences and having friendly, professional staff who know a lot about the animals. When these things come together, they take the zoo or aquarium experience to a whole new level.

Here are 8 of the best aquariums and zoos in the US.

1. San Diego Zoo

2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

A hippo is partially submerged in green water, looking directly at the viewer. Its ears are perked, and the water ripples gently around it. Rocky terrain is visible in the background, highlighting a natural environment.

San Diego Zoo is known for being a fantastic spot for zoo lovers because of its size and wide variety of animals. They focus on conservation and make sure the habitats feel natural for the animals. You can find over 12,000 animals from about 650 species, and many of them are rare or endangered. It also houses a really nice botanical garden with tons of different plants!

The San Diego Zoo has a bunch of unique and endangered animals you won’t find anywhere. Some cool ones to check out are the Lord Howe Island stick insect, the okapi, the California condor, and Grevy's zebra. They also have bonobos, red pandas, cheetahs, dholes, and gharials hanging out there. While the San Diego Zoo doesn't have a dedicated aquarium yet, its "Ocean and Coastline" habitat features a stunning array of marine creatures, including California sea lions, harbor seals, and leopard sharks.

2. Sea World

Multiple locations

A young girl smiles as she interacts with a dolphin through a glass tank. A family, including a child holding a toy turtle, marvels at sea turtles swimming in a large aquarium. In another scene, a sea lion sits on a rock in an outdoor enclosure, basking in the sun.

Easily one of the best aquariums in America, SeaWorld needs no introduction. With locations in Orlando, San Antonio, and San Diego, SeaWorld houses thousands of aquatic animals and amusement rides, making it more like an adventure aquarium among others. SeaWorld is a solid pick for an aquarium since it focuses on marine life and has cool, interactive displays and educational stuff. You can check out underwater viewing tunnels, touch pools, and watch live shows with marine mammals. They also take animal conservation seriously, helping to rescue and rehabilitate sea creatures.

At SeaWorld, you can check out a bunch of cool animal encounters and shows. Some fan favorites are orcas, dolphins, sea lions, and beluga whales. It's a blast getting to feed sea lions, hang out with bat rays in the aquariums, and learn about all sorts of penguins. Speaking of penguins, SeaWorld Orlando has welcomed the most majestic of them all: Emperor Penguins! Be sure to get your SeaWorld tickets to witness these wonderful sea creatures up close.

3. Zoo Miami

12400 SW 152nd St, Miami, FL 33177, United States

A group of vibrant flamingos with striking pink feathers stand near a pond. Their long necks curve elegantly as they interact with each other on lush green grass. The image captures the natural beauty and social behavior of these unique birds in their tranquil habitat, offering a glimpse into their graceful movements and vivid coloring.

Sure, Miami is known for its stunning beaches and picture-perfect sunsets. But if you're looking for a zoo that features animals and all things wild and wet, Zoo Miami is the place to be. Zoo Miami is one of the biggest and coolest zoos in the U.S., and it's famous for its massive, natural exhibits where animals feel right at home. They've also won awards for their breeding work with endangered species like Komodo dragons, Cuban crocodiles, and Matschie’s tree kangaroos, according to Miami-Dade County.

Additionally, Zoo Miami is the only subtropical zoo in the US! This makes it easier to take care of animals from Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Americas. Zoo Miami is home to more than 2,000 animals from over 375 species. You’ll find big creatures like lions, tigers, and elephants hanging out alongside all sorts of reptiles, birds, and amphibians. Some cool animals to look out for are jaguars, orangutans, meerkats, and even koalas. Plus, there are pygmy hippos, chimpanzees, and a bunch of birds like harpy eagles and pelicans.

4. Aquarium of the Pacific

100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

The image shows a split view. On the left, a penguin gracefully swims underwater in a clear aquarium, surrounded by rocks and blue water. On the right, a close-up of a curious sea otter with wet fur, looking directly at the camera. The contrasting environments highlight the aquatic habitats of these charming animals.

The Aquarium of the Pacific stands out as a beloved destination, captivating visitors with its engaging and educational exhibits. This aquarium showcases a diverse array of marine life, from adorable sea otters and playful harbor seals to mesmerizing jellyfish and vibrant tropical fish. Moreover, the Aquarium of the Pacific offers memorable experiences that go beyond just viewing animals. Visitors can partake in interactive encounters, such as feeding stingrays or touching the gentle tide pool inhabitants.

Educational presentations and captivating demonstrations further enhance the visit, encouraging a deeper understanding of marine conservation. With its combination of awe-inspiring wildlife and enriching activities, it’s no wonder that the Aquarium of the Pacific remains a top attraction for families and marine enthusiasts alike.

5. Zoo Atlanta

800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315, United States

A small, vividly patterned frog with a yellow and brown spotted body perches on a green leaf. Its skin is glossy, reflecting a natural sheen. The frog's large, round eyes and distinctive markings give it a vibrant, striking appearance. It is set against a soft focus background of green foliage.

Zoo Atlanta ranks among the best zoos in the United States due to its remarkable dedication to conservation, education, and animal welfare. Visitors can engage in a variety of interactive activities, such as animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours, providing a unique glimpse into wildlife care. Home to an impressive collection of animals, including orangutans, amphibians, alligator snapping turtles, and sloths, each visit promises an unforgettable experience.

Kids can enjoy the play areas and educational programs designed to foster a love for wildlife. Seasonal events and special exhibits further enhance the visitor experience, making every trip a new adventure. Overall, Zoo Atlanta's combination of captivating species, educational opportunities, and entertaining activities makes it a top destination for animal lovers of all ages.

6. Sea Life Aquariums

Multiple locations

A person in a bright hoodie sits with a child on their lap, both facing and pointing at a large aquarium. The tank is filled with colorful fish swimming around rocky formations, creating an engaging underwater scene. The child appears captivated by the vibrant marine life, making it a moment of shared wonder and exploration.

Sea Life Aquariums are among the top aquariums in North America, and it’s easy to see why. With fascinating creatures like the quirky octopuses and stunning sea turtles, every visit feels special. Plus, there are some great activities like feeding shows and touch pools where you can get up close with marine life. With so much to see and do, it’s a great spot for anyone wanting to learn more about the ocean while having a blast.

This family-friendly aquarium houses a diverse range of aquatic animals, including sharks, manta rays, jellyfish, seahorses, octopuses, sea turtles, and various freshwater and saltwater fishes. Some aquariums may also feature penguins, otters, and even marine mammals such as dolphins or whales, depending on the specific location and exhibit.

7. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220, United States

A vibrant blue fish swims gracefully in a dark aquatic environment. Its scales shimmer with subtle purple hues under the water. The background features blurred plants, creating a natural aquatic setting. The fish displays elegant fins and a streamlined body, showcasing its beauty and tranquility.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is a haven for zoo enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of incredible wildlife and stunning botanical displays. Home to a diverse array of animals, including the world-famous hippo Fiona, mischievous red pandas, and the endangered snow leopard, the zoo captivates visitors of all ages.

Additionally, the gardens feature a vibrant collection of plants, providing a serene backdrop for leisurely strolls. Guests can participate in engaging activities such as animal encounters, guided tours, and educational programs, making each visit a memorable adventure filled with discovery and excitement.

8. Discovery Cove

6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821, United States

A vibrant underwater scene with a variety of fish swimming near rocky formations. The water is clear, revealing colorful fish and textured rocks. Sunlight filters through the water, creating shimmering patterns on the sandy bottom. A peaceful and lively aquatic habitat.

Discovery Cove in Florida is a premier aquarium that promises visitors an extraordinary adventure. Home to a stunning variety of marine life, including playful dolphins, gentle sharks and sea turtles, and mesmerizing rays, guests have the unique opportunity to interact closely with these animals. Apart from these fantastic encounters, you can also watch sea otters play, swim, and snorkel with different aquatic animals, and hand-feed birds of rare species like macaws, kookaburras, and curl-crested aracaris.

Beyond the captivating wildlife, visitors can unwind in crystal-clear lagoons, wander through beautifully designed tropical settings, and snorkel in vibrant coral reefs. With its exciting animal encounters and picturesque environment, Discovery Cove is an essential destination for those seeking unforgettable ocean-inspired memories.

Visit one (or all) of these aquariums and zoos for a wet and wild adventure.

Witnessing beautiful marine and land animals thrive in different environments is always an out-of-body experience. We hope that this list of the best zoos and aquariums in the United States has helped you choose your next destination for a meaningful and unforgettable adventure. From seeing whale sharks and exploring kelp forests to marveling at rainforests and ocean floors, these zoos and aquariums offer a unique and colorful perspective on nature's timeless allure.

Visit the best aquariums in the US to get behind-the-scenes access plus exclusive encounters with thousands of animals. These zoos and aquariums not only exhibit the animals; they also educate the public to prioritize conservation efforts. So, what are you waiting for? Grab those zoo and aquarium tickets now and treat your loved ones to zoo-mazing and ocean-tastic experiences, FunExplorers!