Exploring the wonders of the ocean is as easy as a visit to the SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium. With general admission costing $24.60 per person, guests can venture through 10 diverse zones featuring over 5,000 marine creatures. From the awe-inspiring 180-degree Ocean Tunnel to the up-close encounters at Stingray Bay, this aquarium offers an immersive experience perfect for families and shoppers alike. But what else awaits within its walls? Let’s dive in and uncover the aquarium’s hidden gems.
Good To Know
- General admission to the SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium costs $24.60 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- The aquarium features 10 different zones with over 5,000 undersea creatures, including an immersive 180-degree Ocean Tunnel and exhibits showcasing seahorses, stingrays, and schooling fish.
- Visitors can explore the Freshwater, Harbor, and Shoaling Exhibits, as well as the Seahorse Mangrove Exhibit and Stingray Bay for up-close encounters.
- The aquarium is located at Entrance 7 within Concord Mills Mall, with on-site parking and wheelchair accessibility for an inclusive experience.
- Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and children 2 and under enter for free with a paid adult; face masks are required for all guests.
Admission Details
General admission to the SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium costs $24.60 per person.
Visitors can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The aquarium also offers a reserve now, pay later option.
Tickets are valid for 1 day, and check-in times vary, so guests should verify availability.
The attraction is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all guests.
Looking for more options in Sea Life Charlotte Concord? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Experience Highlights
Visitors can explore 10 different zones featuring 5,000 undersea creatures at the SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium.
The 180-degree Ocean Tunnel offers an immersive experience. Key exhibits include the Freshwater Exhibit showcasing local Catawba River species, the Harbor Exhibit with tropical underwater creatures, and the Shoaling Exhibit with schooling fish.
The Seahorse Mangrove Exhibit displays seahorses, while Stingray Bay features friendly rays. The Tropical Ocean Exhibit has sharks, rays, and a rescued green sea turtle.
The Jellies Exhibit showcases mesmerizing jellyfish, and the Coral Reef Exhibit features vibrant fish.
The Conservation Cove focuses on ocean protection.
Key Exhibits
The SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium’s exhibits highlight a diverse array of marine life. Visitors can explore the Freshwater Exhibit showcasing local Catawba River species, the Harbor Exhibit with tropical underwater creatures, and the Shoaling Exhibit with schooling fish. The Seahorse Mangrove Exhibit displays mesmerizing seahorses, while Stingray Bay allows up-close encounters with friendly rays. The Tropical Ocean Exhibit features sharks, rays, and a rescued green sea turtle. The Jellies Exhibit showcases the captivating movements of jellyfish, and the Coral Reef Exhibit presents vibrant fish. The Conservation Cove focuses on ocean protection.
| Exhibit | Featured Species |
|———|——————-|
| Freshwater | Catawba River fish |
| Harbor | Tropical marine life |
| Shoaling | Schooling fish |
| Seahorse Mangrove | Seahorses |
| Stingray Bay | Stingrays |
Freshwater Exhibit
The Freshwater Exhibit at the SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium showcases an array of fish native to the nearby Catawba River.
Visitors can see local species like bass, sunfish, and catfish swimming in their natural habitat. The exhibit highlights the importance of preserving the Catawba’s ecosystem and the aquarium’s conservation efforts.
Detailed signage educates guests about the various fish and their characteristics. The peaceful, serene setting allows for a close-up observation of these freshwater creatures.
This exhibit provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the diverse wildlife found in the region’s waterways.
More Great Tours NearbyAccessibility and Location
SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium is conveniently located at Entrance 7 within Concord Mills Mall.
Visitors can easily access the aquarium with on-site parking available. The aquarium’s prime location at the mall entrance makes it a great stop for shoppers and families.
Conveniently located at the mall entrance, the aquarium offers on-site parking for easy access for shoppers and families.
With wheelchair accessibility, the aquarium ensures an inclusive experience for all guests.
Whether arriving by car or public transportation, the aquarium’s central location in Concord, North Carolina, provides easy accessibility for visitors from the Charlotte-Concord metropolitan area and beyond.
Visitor Guidelines
Children aged 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or older when visiting the aquarium. Plus, children 2 and under can enter for free with a paid adult. All guests are required to wear face masks or protective coverings. Bringing in outside food, drinks, large bags, and unaccompanied minors is not permitted. To maintain social distancing, the aquarium has implemented directional markings throughout the facility.
| Rule | Requirement |
|——|————-|
| Age | Children 16 and under must be accompanied by adult 18+ |
| Entry | Children 2 and under free with paid adult |
| Face Coverings | Masks or protective coverings required |
| Prohibited Items | No outside food, drinks, large bags, unaccompanied minors |
| Social Distancing | Directional markings provided |
Customer Reviews
Visitors have provided a mixed reception to their experience at the SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium, with an overall rating of 3.6 out of 5 based on 40 reviews.
The value for money score is 3.3 out of 5.
Some positives include:
-
Great experience for kids (Frances)
-
Convenient mall location with a variety of exhibits (Bob)
-
Friendly staff and notable exhibits, including pregnant seahorses (John)
However, the aquarium appears to have room for improvement to fully satisfy its visitors.
Providing a high-quality, engaging experience at a reasonable price point will be key to boosting customer satisfaction.
The Sum Up
The SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium provides a mixed experience for guests, as indicated by the overall 3.6 out of 5 rating from visitor reviews.
While the aquarium offers a diverse range of exhibits and an immersive Ocean Tunnel, some guests felt the value for money was lacking.
However, the aquarium’s convenient mall location, family-friendly exhibits, and knowledgeable staff received positive feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Photography and Videography Allowed Inside the Aquarium?
Photography and videography are generally allowed at the aquarium, but visitors should avoid disturbing the animals or other guests. Guests may take photos and videos for personal use, but should follow any posted rules or staff instructions.
Does the Aquarium Offer Any Discounts or Special Pricing for Groups?
The aquarium offers group discounts, but the details aren’t specified. Visitors should check the website or contact the aquarium directly to inquire about group pricing and availability.
Are There Any Educational Programs or Guided Tours Available?
The aquarium offers educational programs and guided tours to enhance the visitor experience. They provide in-depth information about the marine life and conservation efforts. Guests can learn more by inquiring with staff upon arrival.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to Consume on the Premises?
No, food, drinks, and large bags are not allowed on the premises. The visitor guidelines state that only these items are prohibited to maintain a clean and safe environment for all guests.
What Is the Policy on Strollers and Wagons Inside the Aquarium?
Strollers and wagons are permitted inside the aquarium. However, they may be restricted in certain areas to maintain social distancing and ensure the safety of all visitors. Guests are encouraged to check with staff upon arrival for any specific guidelines.
The Sum Up
The SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium offers an immersive undersea experience for visitors of all ages. With 5,000 creatures across 10 diverse zones, it’s an ideal destination for families and shoppers alike. The aquarium’s convenient location within Concord Mills Mall and flexible cancellation policy make it a must-visit attraction for those seeking an engaging and educational day out.
You can check availability for your dates here: