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| Resident Blue Lobster |
The Woods Hole Science Aquarium is the oldest public aquarium in the country, dating to 1875 when Fisheries Commissioner Spencer Baird invited the public into his research laboratory to view animals and learn about marine science.
Believing that people are entitled to know about work supported by public funds, Baird established a policy of openness in Woods Hole. In 1885 when the federal government built the first dedicated research building in the village, Baird arranged for the new laboratory to include a public aquarium to display marine animals from local waters.
The aquarium thrived in the 19th century laboratory until 1954 when Hurricane Carol ravaged the village. The badly damaged laboratory/aquarium was torn down in 1958 and replaced by two buildings, one of which has housed the aquarium since 1961.
Now well into its second century, the Woods Hole Science Aquarium continues to carry out the dual missions Baird envisioned: supporting fisheries research and educating the public about marine life and marine science.
In the late 20th century, the aquarium took on a third mission: Conservation. The aquarium staff now rehabilitates and releases cold-stunned turtles and provides a permanent home for stranded seals that cannot be released to the wild.
Be sure to check the Woods Holes Science Aquarium webpage for directions and more details.
We are a small, public aquarium that displays approximately 140 species of marine animals found in Northeast and Middle Atlantic waters. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted.
We are open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, year-round.
Seal feedings most days at 11:00 am and 4 pm daily.
Closed all federal holidays. We will be closed Dec. 25 and 26, 2014.
NOTE: The aquarium is a federal building and admission is free; however, we welcome donations, which you can put into a box in the lobby.
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