South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium, located on the historic Charleston Harbor in Charleston, South Carolina, is a premier destination for marine education and conservation. Opened in 2000, the aquarium offers visitors an engaging and educational experience with a focus on the diverse aquatic habitats of South Carolina. Spanning two floors, the aquarium features a wide range of exhibits that highlight the state's rich biodiversity, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the main attractions of the South Carolina Aquarium is the Great Ocean Tank, which is the deepest tank in North America, holding over 385,000 gallons of water. This impressive exhibit simulates an Atlantic Ocean reef environment and is home to thousands of sea creatures, including sharks, sea turtles, and a variety of colorful fish. The aquarium also features the Piedmont, Coastal Plain, and Saltmarsh exhibits, each showcasing the unique ecosystems and species native to those regions. Interactive displays and touch tanks provide hands-on learning opportunities, especially popular with younger visitors.

In addition to its exhibits, the South Carolina Aquarium is dedicated to conservation and rehabilitation efforts, particularly through its Sea Turtle Care Center. This facility rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured and sick sea turtles, offering visitors the chance to learn about the challenges these animals face and the efforts being made to protect them. Educational programs, camps, and behind-the-scenes tours further enhance the visitor experience, making the aquarium a hub for learning and discovery. Open year-round, the South Carolina Aquarium provides a captivating and informative experience for visitors of all ages, combining entertainment with a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship.