The South Carolina Aquarium is a nonprofit institution located in Charleston, South Carolina, dedicated to promoting awareness and education of the diverse aquatic life found in the state's coastal ecosystems. The aquarium opened in 2000 and has since welcomed millions of visitors from around the world. The South Carolina Aquarium features a variety of exhibits that showcase the region's unique and diverse marine life. You can explore the Coastal Plain exhibit, which highlights the freshwater ecosystems found in the state's rivers and swamps, or the Mountain Forest exhibit, which showcases the mountain streams and wetlands found in the Appalachian Mountains. The Saltmarsh exhibit provides a look at the intertidal habitats that line the coast, while the Ocean exhibit features a 385,000-gallon tank filled with sharks, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.

In addition to its exhibits, the South Carolina Aquarium also offers educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages. The aquarium's staff is dedicated to promoting conservation and environmental stewardship through hands-on learning experiences, outreach programs, and community partnerships.

The South Carolina Aquarium is also involved in a variety of conservation efforts, including the Sea Turtle Care Center, which provides medical care and rehabilitation services for injured and sick sea turtles, and the Sustainable Seafood Initiative, which promotes the use of sustainable seafood in local restaurants and businesses. The South Carolina Aquarium is a beloved institution that provides you with an unforgettable glimpse into the rich and diverse marine life found in the state's coastal ecosystems, while also promoting conservation and environmental awareness.

Exhibits at South Carolina Aquarium

Mountain Forest

The Mountain Forest Exhibits at the South Carolina Aquarium are a captivating showcase of the wildlife and habitats of the Appalachian Mountains. You can explore interactive exhibits featuring animals such as river otters, black bears, and bobcats, and learn about the diverse ecosystems of this beautiful region. The exhibits provide insight into the importance of preserving these habitats and the impact of human activities on the environment. The Mountain Forest Exhibits offer an engaging and educational experience for all, highlighting the importance of conservation and environmental awareness.

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Piedmont

The Piedmont Exhibits at the South Carolina Aquarium offer you a unique opportunity to learn about the diverse ecosystems found in the Piedmont region of the state. This indoor exhibit showcases the flora and fauna of this region, including river otters, bobcats, and red-tailed hawks. You can also learn about the importance of conservation efforts aimed at protecting these fragile ecosystems. With its engaging exhibits and educational programs, the Piedmont Exhibits at the South Carolina Aquarium are a must-see for anyone interested in the natural beauty and diversity of South Carolina.

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The Trading Post

The Trading Post Exhibits at South Carolina Aquarium offer a unique and interactive experience for all. These exhibits showcase the history and culture of the Lowcountry region of South Carolina, including its rich maritime heritage and the unique ecosystems found in the area. You can explore a variety of artifacts and interactive displays that bring the history and culture of the region to life. The Trading Post Exhibits offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and present of the South Carolina coast, and are a must-see for anyone interested in the area's unique history and culture.

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Coastal Plain

The Coastal Plain Exhibits at the South Carolina Aquarium feature a diverse collection of aquatic species found in the southeastern United States. This exhibit highlights the unique ecosystem of the Coastal Plain region, from the sandy beaches and marshlands to the freshwater rivers and streams. You can observe a variety of species, from alligators and otters to river turtles and colorful fish. The Coastal Plain Exhibits are a great way to learn about the biodiversity of the southeastern United States and the importance of preserving these habitats for future generations.

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Kids Coast

The Kids Coast exhibit at the South Carolina Aquarium is an interactive and educational experience designed for young people. This exhibit features a variety of touch tanks, interactive displays, and live animal exhibits that allow kids to learn about the diverse marine life found in the waters around South Carolina. Kids can touch and observe a variety of sea creatures, including horseshoe crabs, stingrays, and sea stars, and learn about their unique adaptations and behaviors. The Kids Coast exhibit is a great way to introduce children to the wonders of the ocean and inspire a lifelong love of marine conservation.

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Saltmarsh Aviary

The Saltmarsh Aviary exhibit at South Carolina Aquarium is a unique display that features a variety of birds that inhabit the coastal salt marshes of South Carolina. You can observe these fascinating creatures up close, from the American oystercatcher to the brown pelican. In addition to the birds, the exhibit also showcases the importance of the salt marsh ecosystem and the challenges it faces due to development and climate change. This exhibit is a must-see for anyone interested in the wildlife and ecology of the South Carolina coast.

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Touch Tank

The Touch Tank Exhibits at South Carolina Aquarium offer you a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of sea creatures. From horseshoe crabs to stingrays, you can touch and observe these fascinating creatures while learning about their adaptations and behaviors. The touch tank exhibits are an engaging and interactive way to learn about the diverse marine life of the Atlantic coast and to gain a greater appreciation for the importance of conservation. Visitors of all ages are sure to enjoy this hands-on experience at the South Carolina Aquarium.

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Coast

The Coast Exhibits at South Carolina Aquarium offer you a chance to explore the diverse marine life found in the coastal waters of the southeastern United States. This exhibit features a variety of species, from playful river otters to majestic sea turtles and sharks. You can also learn about the unique ecosystems of the region, including the salt marshes and estuaries that provide important habitats for many coastal species. The Coast Exhibits at South Carolina Aquarium are a great way to learn about the incredible biodiversity of the southeastern coast and the importance of protecting these fragile ecosystems.

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Ocean

The Ocean Exhibits at the South Carolina Aquarium offer you the chance to explore the wonders of the ocean through a series of engaging and educational exhibits. From the Great Ocean Tank, which features a 385,000-gallon tank filled with a variety of sharks, sea turtles, and other marine life, to the Touch Tank, where you can interact with a variety of sea creatures, the Ocean Exhibits offer a unique and immersive experience that is both entertaining and educational. You can learn about the complex ecosystems of the ocean and the importance of marine conservation through hands-on activities and interactive displays.

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Carolina Seas

The Carolina Seas Exhibits at South Carolina Aquarium are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the marine life of the southeastern United States. This exhibit showcases the diverse array of marine creatures that call the Carolina coast home, from sharks and rays to sea turtles and colorful fish. You can observe these fascinating creatures up close and learn about the importance of protecting their habitats and the ecosystems they depend on. With engaging educational programs and interactive exhibits, the Carolina Seas Exhibits are a great way to learn about the wonders of the ocean and the importance of conservation.

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The Shallows

The Shallows Exhibits at South Carolina Aquarium is a unique and engaging exhibit that allows you to explore the shallow waters of South Carolina's coast. The exhibit features a variety of marine life, including stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and sea turtles, that can be observed up close and even touched. You can also learn about the importance of protecting these fragile ecosystems and the challenges faced by the marine creatures that call them home. The Shallows Exhibits is a great way to connect with the natural beauty of South Carolina's coast and to learn about the importance of conservation efforts.

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Creatures Inside South Carolina Aquarium

American Alligator: The South Carolina Aquarium is home to a fascinating American Alligator exhibit that showcases these ancient and impressive creatures. You can observe these powerful predators up close and learn about their habitat, diet, and behavior. The exhibit also highlights the importance of protecting alligator habitats and the efforts being made to conserve these iconic American reptiles.
American Kestrel: The American Kestrel at the South Carolina Aquarium is a small but powerful bird of prey, known for its distinctive coloration and agile hunting skills. You can observe this majestic bird in action as it swoops and dives in its spacious exhibit, and learn about the important role that kestrels play in maintaining the delicate balance of our ecosystems. The American Kestrel exhibit is a great way to experience the wonder of nature up close and to gain a greater appreciation for the diverse wildlife that calls our planet home.
Atlantic spadefish: The Atlantic spadefish is a striking black and white fish found in the Atlantic Ocean, and is one of the featured animals at South Carolina Aquarium. You can observe these fascinating creatures in the Blackwater exhibit, where they swim among other species that inhabit the murky waters of the ocean's deep. The Atlantic spadefish is known for its unique appearance and behavior, and is a must-see for any aquarium enthusiast.
Atlantic Tripletail: The Atlantic tripletail is a unique and fascinating marine creature that can be found in the waters off the coast of South Carolina. At the South Carolina Aquarium, you can observe these elusive fish in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and adaptations. With its distinctive shape and coloring, the Atlantic tripletail is a memorable and impressive sight that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors to the aquarium.
Bald Eagle: The Bald Eagle named Liberty at South Carolina Aquarium is a symbol of freedom and power. You can observe this majestic bird up close and learn about its role in American history and culture. The exhibit also highlights the importance of preserving the habitats of these beautiful birds and other wildlife species in the United States.
Barn Owl: Barn Owl | Pippin is an animal ambassador at the South Carolina Aquarium. As a trained ambassador, Pippin helps you to learn about the important role that owls and other birds of prey play in the ecosystem. Pippin's story and behaviors provide a unique opportunity for you to connect with wildlife and to learn about the conservation efforts that are necessary to protect these animals and their habitats.
Barracuda: The barracuda is a popular attraction at the South Carolina Aquarium. This fascinating predator is known for its lightning-fast speed and sharp teeth, and visitors can observe it up close in the Great Ocean Tank exhibit. The barracuda is just one of many fascinating marine creatures that can be seen at the aquarium, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the wonders of the ocean.
Chain Dogfish: The Chain Dogfish is a fascinating species of shark that can be found in the waters off the southeastern coast of the United States. South Carolina Aquarium is home to several Chain Dogfish and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about their unique characteristics and behaviors. Visitors can observe these intriguing creatures up close and learn about the important role they play in the ocean ecosystem.

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FAQs For South Carolina Aquarium

Where is South Carolina Aquarium located?

The South Carolina Aquarium is located in Charleston, South Carolina, on the Charleston Harbor at 100 Aquarium Wharf.

How big is South Carolina Aquarium?

The South Carolina Aquarium is a 93,000 square foot facility located in Charleston, South Carolina, USA. The aquarium has two main levels, featuring exhibits such as the Great Ocean Tank, the Saltmarsh Aviary, and the Coastal Plain exhibit.