We are here to help make your visit special.  If you have any other quesitons or we can be of help please ask one of our staff.

FAQs

Do you accept credit cards?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express for admission, membership, cafe and store purchases.


Do you have special Group Rates?
Group rates are available for groups consisting of 10 or more paying people all arriving and entering together. A prior reservation made at least 24 hours in advance is required. One person must pay for the entire group. Supervising adults are required for children. Some restrictions apply. For more information please call Reservations at 860.572.5955 ext. 520.

Do you have Parking?
The Aquarium has plenty of free parking and handicapped parking on the premises.

Do you offer Memberships?
Members receive free admission and other exciting benefits. Save your tickets to apply a portion of today's admission toward an annual membership. Tickets good for 30 days. Some restrictions apply. Visit Membership to become a member today.

Can I make a donation?
Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration accepts and needs donations in order to continue to provide the exhibits and animal life you see. To find out more or make a donation, call 860.572.5955 ext. 553 or visit Donations & Gifts.

Do you offer Educational Programs?
Enroll in a class and explore our ocean planet up close. Classes are available for pre-K through college and adult. Call Reservations at 860.572.5955 ext. 520 weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for program information and reservations or visit Programs Home.

Can I take photos?
Flash photography is permitted. Video lights are not permitted. Any commercial use of still or motion pictures taken at the Aquarium without written consent of Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration is prohibited. Film is available at the Aquarium Store.

Can I bring my pet?
For the health and safety of our animals we do not allow pets into the Aquarium building with the exception of service animals. 

What is your Smoking Policy?
For the health and safety of our animals and guests, ours is a smoke-free environment.

Do you offer Special Needs access?
Our buildings and grounds have been designed to provide full access and quality experience for special needs visitors. The facility is fully wheelchair accessible and wheelchairs are available for use during your visit on a first come - first served basis.

Where are the restrooms?
Located year-round in the main building and seasonally to the right of the Penguins Café and where the Alaskan Coast meets the Pribilof Islands. Diaper change facilities are located in restrooms. 

Where can we eat?
The Penguins Cafe, adjacent to the Ocean Planet Pavilion, has a great menu with a variety of foods sure to satisfy guests of all ages. If you prefer, there's also a picnic area near the east end of the parking lot.

Where can I buy film, tee shirts, toys and books about sea life?
A visit here wouldn't be complete without a stop at the Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration Store. Located next to the Ocean Planet Pavilion, we have a great selection of gifts, books, videos, apparel and much more, so be sure to leave plenty of time to browse.

Can I leave the building and return during my visit?
Of course, just be sure to have everyone in your party get their hand stamped at the exit doors if you plan on returning today.

How do I get to the sea lion demonstration?
The entrance to the Marine Theater is outside. Exit the main building near the Beluga whale exhibit. Stairs and an elevator to the upper level are located just beyond the Ray Touch Pool.

Where is your Lost Children/Lost & Found office?
Located in the Administrative Office in the main building. All groups are advised to designate a meeting place in case they are separated.