Aquariums offer a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world, showcasing marine life from all corners of the globe. The largest aquariums stand out not only for their size but also for their impressive collection of species and immersive experiences. These aquariums attract millions of visitors each year, offering educational insights and family-friendly adventures.
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, China
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in Zhuhai, China, is one of the largest aquariums in the world, covering over 12.87 million gallons of water. This massive attraction is home to more than 20,000 marine animals across 500 species. The aquarium is famous for its whale shark exhibit and interactive shows that draw large crowds. Every year, it welcomes millions of visitors, making it a top destination for marine life enthusiasts. Its themed areas provide a deep dive into various aquatic habitats, creating an unforgettable experience.
Georgia Aquarium, USA
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the Georgia Aquarium holds over 10 million gallons of water and is one of the largest in the world. It features more than 100,000 animals across 500 species, including whale sharks and beluga whales. The aquarium is a popular tourist spot, drawing over 2 million visitors annually. With immersive exhibits and conservation efforts, it educates the public about marine life while providing a thrilling experience for all ages.
S.E.A. Aquarium, Singapore
Singapore’s S.E.A. Aquarium houses over 100,000 marine animals from 1,000 species. It holds around 12 million gallons of water, making it one of the largest in Southeast Asia. Located on Sentosa Island, this aquarium offers visitors a chance to explore diverse marine habitats. It receives more than 1 million visitors every year, thanks to its impressive displays and interactive learning experiences. Its panoramic views of marine life make it a must-visit for ocean lovers.
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, Japan
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is located in Japan and is famous for its massive main tank, called the Kuroshio Sea. This aquarium holds over 1.98 million gallons of water and is home to 740 species, including giant manta rays and whale sharks. Over 3 million visitors come each year to witness the beauty of Okinawa’s marine life. The aquarium’s focus on the biodiversity of the Pacific Ocean provides a unique and educational experience for all visitors.
Dubai Mall Aquarium, UAE
The Dubai Mall Aquarium, located inside one of the world’s largest shopping malls, holds 2.64 million gallons of water. It showcases over 140 species, including sharks and rays, making it a must-see for marine life enthusiasts. Each year, millions of visitors pass through, drawn by its massive underwater tunnel and stunning views. Its convenient location and impressive scale make it a standout attraction in the heart of Dubai.
L’Oceanografic, Spain
L’Oceanografic, located in Valencia, Spain, is the largest aquarium in Europe, with 11 million gallons of water. This massive aquarium houses over 45,000 animals from 500 species. Visitors can explore various marine ecosystems, from the Arctic to the Mediterranean. More than 1.3 million visitors come annually to see its dolphinarium and underwater viewing tunnels. It’s a perfect blend of entertainment and education, attracting tourists from around the world.
The Seas with Nemo & Friends, USA
Part of Disney’s Epcot in Florida, The Seas with Nemo & Friends is home to over 5.7 million gallons of water. It houses 4,000 sea creatures representing 60 species, including sea turtles and dolphins. The aquarium’s playful theme and interactive exhibits make it a favorite among families. It sees millions of visitors yearly, blending entertainment with a deeper understanding of marine life. Its unique combination of Disney magic and aquatic life sets it apart from other aquariums.
Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, China
Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, located in China, covers an area of 220,000 square feet and holds 4 million gallons of water. The aquarium houses over 15,000 marine creatures from 450 species, including rare species like the Chinese giant salamander. Its highlight is the world’s longest underwater viewing tunnel, stretching over 155 meters. More than 2 million visitors come each year to witness its impressive displays and themed exhibits, making it a top destination for marine enthusiasts.
Turkuazoo, Turkey
Located in Istanbul, Turkuazoo is Turkey’s largest aquarium, featuring over 1.32 million gallons of water. This aquarium is home to more than 10,000 marine animals, spanning 1,500 species, including sharks and stingrays. Visitors can explore its 80-meter underwater tunnel, offering a panoramic view of marine life. Annually, Turkuazoo attracts around 1 million visitors, thanks to its educational programs and immersive exhibits that focus on marine conservation.
Marine Life Park, Singapore
Marine Life Park, located on Sentosa Island in Singapore, boasts 12 million gallons of water, making it one of the largest in Southeast Asia. It is home to more than 100,000 marine creatures from 1,000 species, including manta rays and dolphins. This park attracts over 2 million visitors annually with its wide variety of exhibits and interactive experiences. Its impressive scale and educational programs make it a major attraction in Singapore.
uShaka Marine World, South Africa
uShaka Marine World, located in Durban, South Africa, covers more than 15 acres and holds over 3.8 million gallons of water. It features over 10,000 marine animals from 300 species, including dolphins, sharks, and tropical fish. The aquarium’s highlight is its dolphinarium and underwater viewing tunnels. More than 1.5 million people visit annually, drawn by its mix of entertainment, marine life, and conservation efforts.
Monterey Bay Aquarium, USA
Monterey Bay Aquarium, located in California, USA, holds around 2 million gallons of water and showcases over 35,000 animals from 550 species. It is known for its open-sea exhibit and live kelp forest, which are among its most popular attractions. Over 2 million visitors come each year to explore its exhibits and learn about ocean conservation. The aquarium plays a significant role in marine research and education.
Aquarium of Genoa, Italy
Aquarium of Genoa, located in Italy, is the largest in the country, featuring over 1.5 million gallons of water. It houses more than 12,000 animals from 600 species, including dolphins, sharks, and penguins. The aquarium’s exhibitions focus on biodiversity and conservation, attracting around 1.2 million visitors annually. Its massive tanks and wide range of marine life make it a must-visit for ocean lovers in Europe.
Aqua Planet Jeju, South Korea
Aqua Planet Jeju is one of the largest aquariums in South Korea, holding 1.32 million gallons of water. Located on Jeju Island, it is home to over 5,000 marine animals from 500 species, including sea lions and whale sharks. Each year, the aquarium attracts more than 1 million visitors. Its large tanks and interactive exhibits offer visitors a deep dive into diverse marine ecosystems.
National Aquarium, USA
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, the National Aquarium holds 2.2 million gallons of water and features over 17,000 animals from 750 species. It is one of the most visited aquariums in the USA, welcoming around 1.5 million people annually. The aquarium is famous for its Blacktip Reef exhibit and focuses heavily on education and conservation efforts. Its diverse collection and immersive experiences make it a favorite among tourists and locals alike.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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