Adventure Aquarium

Adventure Aquarium delivers an unforgettable underwater experience just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, featuring one of the largest collections of sharks in the Northeast, adorable African penguins, and the rare opportunity to see hippos swimming underwater. The interactive touch tanks let kids get hands-on with stingrays and sharks, making this more than just a look-and-learn experience,it's a place where children can actually connect with amazing sea creatures.

• ✓Shark Tunnel where you walk through a 40-foot tunnel surrounded by swimming sharks
• ✓Touch tanks with live stingrays and small sharks that kids can actually pet
• ✓Hippo Haven viewing underwater hippo behavior,one of only a few places in the US to see this
• ✓African penguin colony with daily feeding demonstrations
• ✓KidZone with crawl-through tunnels and kid-height viewing areas designed specifically for little ones

1. 1.Arrive right when doors open (9:30 AM weekends, 10:00 AM weekdays) to experience the touch tanks before crowds make it harder for little ones to reach
2. 2.Park in the aquarium's lot for convenience,street parking in Camden is limited and the lot connects directly via a safe walkway
3. 3.Don't miss the hippo feeding times posted at entrance,watching hippos eat underwater is truly magical and happens only at scheduled times
4. 4.Bring a change of clothes for toddlers who get enthusiastic at the touch tanks, and pack hand sanitizer though washing stations are available
5. 5.Purchase tickets online in advance for discounts and to skip the ticket line, especially on rainy weekends when crowds spike

Weekday mornings (Monday-Friday at 10:00 AM opening) offer the smallest crowds and best touch tank access. Weekends get busy, especially during summer and school breaks. Winter weekdays are ideal for a nearly private experience, though weekend mornings in fall and spring provide good weather for the short outdoor walk from parking.

General admission runs around $35-40 for adults and $30-35 for children (2-12), with combo packages available for additional experiences like the 4D theater. The aquarium is fully stroller-accessible with elevators, offers a café with kid favorites like pizza and chicken tenders, and has a gift shop that can derail your exit strategy,budget accordingly!

Open year-round with extended hours during summer months and school breaks. Holiday-themed events like Halloween and winter celebrations add special programming. Indoor venue makes it perfect for rainy days or extreme weather. Check website for occasional closures on major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Head back across the Ben Franklin Bridge to Philadelphia's Penn's Landing area for kid-friendly options like Dave & Buster's (5-minute drive) for arcade fun with food, or Chickie's & Pete's for their famous crabfries and casual family atmosphere. In Camden itself, dining options are limited, so plan to eat before or after in Philly.