Greater Cleveland Aquarium — Attraction in Cleveland

It was a beautiful, sunny weekend here in Cleveland, and I, Zack Schneider, along with my wife, Annemarie, and our three boys, August, Enzo, and Roman, decided to embark on an aquatic adventure. We set our sights on the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, excited to explore the underwater world housed in the historic FirstEnergy Powerhouse building.

As we entered the aquarium, the blend of history and marine life immediately caught our attention. The boys were especially excited, anticipating sharks and a myriad of colorful fish. However, as we began our tour, I couldn't help but feel that the aquarium, although educational and intriguing, seemed smaller than what we had expected.

We strolled through various exhibits, from the local freshwater fish to the vibrant tropical reef section. The 175-foot underwater SeaTube was impressive, with sharks and rays gliding gracefully overhead. Yet, the visit progressed quicker than we had anticipated. The touch pools were a highlight for the boys, but overall, the experience felt somewhat underwhelming.

Realizing that the day was still young, I proposed a spontaneous visit to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. "Let's make the most of today and see even more animals," I suggested, and the family was immediately excited about the idea.

The zoo was a complete contrast to the aquarium. It was vast, teeming with a variety of animals from all corners of the globe. The boys were overjoyed, rushing from one exhibit to another, their energy seemingly boundless. We saw majestic lions, towering giraffes, and even playful elephants. The zoo's expansive grounds allowed us to wander and explore to our heart's content.

Our day transformed from a quick aquarium visit to a full-fledged exploration of wildlife and nature. As the day drew to a close, we made our way home, filled with happy memories and stories to share. The aquarium might have been a brief part of our day, but it led us to an unexpected and wonderful adventure at the zoo. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best family days are those that unfold spontaneously, full of...

Worth the trip! Not your average acquarium at all!! For those reviews complaining it's not as big as a normal aquarium place yes it's not massive but I've never seen one built like this before. The entire place starts as a jungle then goes into a maze type that has tanks built into the walls while feeling like walking through underground tunnels. The stingray tank is all open and you are able to touch them as they swim around (can even feed them at certain times). No they will not hurt you. We let our almost 2 yr old put her hands in the tank. There are areas you walk through a fish tank with fish swimming all above your head. The shark area is MASSIVE and designed in a way you are able to essentially walk around their entire tank including through a very very long tunnel with them overhead. Once admission is paid you can stay as long as you want which we took advantage of and kept revisiting areas. I never would have imagined from the reviews or from the check in how big this place was. I was expecting the worst and was shocked how great this place was. Time it right and in the same building is a trolley ride through the city and a really nice sit down place to eat upstairs. Could have spent all day here. We are from very very up north Michigan and have stopped at many places along the way. Including zoo's and other Aquarium's. This is one worth revisiting without question. Price seems steep but think about the upkeep for the tanks. Most zoo's and Aquarium's make their money off food sold inside for an insane price. This place doesnt sell food so admission is how they make their money. Parking is $3 but once you see the area you will be happy to pay for gated parking anyways. Dont knock it till you try it. Even the scuba diver cleaning tanks was extremely nice and high fiving...

I would recommend this aquarium to anyone who is thinking of even remotely visiting the Cleveland, Ohio area. You may spend on average an hour or so going through here. There is a sting ray area as well where you can touch the sting rays. I had one baby sting ray who really took a liking to me and kept coming back to see me. lol...... I think she knew I love animals. The huge aquarium where divers go in to work is a 230,000 gallon tank from what I was told. This place deserves more recognition. I think they are a ton better than Pittsburgh Aquarium and the National Aquarium in Baltimore put together. Folks, it is not size that matters; it's quality that counts. I see so many places boast about how great they are because they are huge. Then you get to those places saying you'll never return many times. It is like having a 70 acre farm with 10 trees and nothing else and 10,000 people hovering around those few trees than very few can enjoy what little there is to see. I think you get what I'm saying now as it paints a better picture. I think the best time for you to go is during the week. Not only will your kids enjoy this place, but older folks, yes you (because I am one), will enjoy this place as well. The staff is respectful, helpful, friendly and willing to answer any questions you may have. There is a gift shop on site as well as a souvenir coin machine. Parking is only $3.00. I forget the entry price on the place, but you can look online or call for it. This place, at least to me, beats out the Maryland National Aquarium and it also beats out the Pittsburgh Aquarium part of the zoo. I plan on returning when I am able. I had a nice time...