See the sharks at the New York Aquarium on Coney Island
Sharks, sea lions and a boardwalk outside the door. Coney Island, Brooklyn.
The short answer
The New York Aquarium is at 602 Surf Avenue on Coney Island, and the Aquarium's own page lists daily opening from 10am. From September 8 to October 31, 2026, last entry is 4pm and the park closes at 5pm; from November 1 to March 2027, last entry is 3:30pm and it closes at 4:30pm. At the time of writing adults are $29.95 off-peak or $32.95 peak, children aged 3 to 12 are $25.95 or $27.95, and seniors $27.95 or $29.95.
What it is like
A family of four (two adults, two children) is looking at about $112 at off-peak rates, which is real money, so it is worth picking your day with the weather in mind. The Aquarium says some of its attractions are indoors and some outdoors: Ocean Wonders: Sharks!, Glover's Reef, Sea Cliffs, the Aquatheater and the Playquarium are among the exhibits it names, and Wild Encounters programs run April to October.
It pairs naturally with a boardwalk walk and an ice cream, which is exactly the problem: the trip can sprawl. Decide in advance whether the day is Aquarium plus beach or Aquarium and home. Parking is $18 for up to three hours. Exhibit maintenance does happen: at the time of writing the site said the penguins would be off view from October 5 to 9, so check the home page before you promise anyone a penguin.
Best time to go
A weekday off-peak morning; mild days (parts are outdoors).
Tips before you go
- Buy tickets online and choose an off-peak day to save a few dollars each.
- Check the home page for exhibit closures (the penguins had a maintenance break in early October 2026).
- Dress for the weather; some of the exhibits are outdoors.
Where it is
602 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11224. OpenStreetMap ↗ · Directions ↗
What's on here
From The New York Almanac, the next 60 days.
Sat, Oct 10 to Sat, Oct 31
Ascarium Fall Festival
New York Aquarium, Coney Island, Brooklyn · Included with admission ($29.95 adults, $25.95 children off-peak)
A family fall festival with marine-themed magic shows, face painting, Wildlife Theater performances and games, plus new Sea of Illusions and Bubble Play. Included with admission. Organizer ↗
Monday, October 19, 2026, 15:30
Halloween Craft and Movie
Coney Island Library, Coney Island, Brooklyn · Free
Kids and teens watch Hocus Pocus and make paper Halloween lanterns at the Coney Island Library. Organizer ↗
Nearby on the Brood List
Coney Island: the boardwalk and Luna Park
Coney Island · 0.2 mile away
Questions people ask
How much is the New York Aquarium?
At the time of writing, adults 13+ are $29.95 off-peak or $32.95 peak, and children 3 to 12 are $25.95 or $27.95.
What time does it close?
From September 8 to October 31, 2026 last entry is 4pm and it closes at 5pm; from November 1 it closes at 4:30pm.
Is the Aquarium indoors or outdoors?
Both. Some exhibits are outdoors, so dress for the weather.
How do I get there by subway?
Take D/F/N/Q to Coney Island-Stillwell Av, an accessible station, then walk along Surf Avenue.
How much does it cost?
Adults 13+ $29.95 off-peak, $32.95 peak; seniors $27.95 / $29.95; children 3 to 12 $25.95 / $27.95. Parking $18 for up to 3 hours.
Can you take a stroller?
Not confirmed on the pages I could read; check the Aquarium's Know Before You Go page.
How long do you need?
3 hours.
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