Save The Bay Exploration Center Aquarium

8/10 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊 Mommy Approved Smiling Faces

https://www.savebay.org/family-fun/aquarium/

23 America’s Cup Ave

Newport, RI 02840

(401)324-6020

Dive into Fun at Save the Bay: An Unforgettable Family Adventure!

Discover Newport’s Hamilton Family Save The Bay Aquarium

Have you ever been to the Save the Bay Aquarium in Newport, Rhode Island? It’s a perfect family outing that promises to be both educational and fun for kids of all ages! We visited when our kids were small, and they absolutely loved it. Let me tell you why this place is a must-visit.

A Winter Wonderland

While Newport is bustling in the summer with tourists, winter brings a serene charm. SO year round a visit to Save the Bay Aquarium offers something fun. Located in the heart of downtown Newport at America’s Cup Avenue, this newly located center is home to a variety of fascinating marine creatures.

Meet the Ocean’s Residents

The aquarium features tanks filled with local marine life such as dog sharks, skates, seahorses, crabs, jellyfish, and octopuses. The knowledgeable and friendly staff encourage guests to touch and interact with the animals. They are always ready to answer questions, explain how each habitat is designed, how the animals are fed, and how to handle them properly. This hands-on experience is designed to educate guests about environmental conservation and inspire respect for our oceans.

Perfect for Little Explorers

Our kids were enthralled by the touch tanks, especially in the first room where they could gently handle crabs, snails, starfish, and urchins. All the animals at the center are from local waters, making it a great educational experience about marine life they might encounter at nearby beaches. Even as adults, we learned new things, like the existence of the Shameface crab and the medical uses of horseshoe crab blood.

Engaging Activities and Programs

Although the aquarium is small, with just 2-3 open rooms, an educational crafting area, and a gift shop, it’s packed with engaging activities. There’s a hands only sandbox for sensory fun and marine-themed crafts that are perfect for younger children. For older kids, the size might seem limited, but the quality of interaction and education makes up for it.

Beyond the Aquarium: Save the Bay’s Mission

Save the Bay is more than just an aquarium. As a non-profit organization, they also organize beach cleanups, seal tours, and camps to foster a love for marine biology in children. Their goal is to educate the public about the impact we have on our planet and to create future generations that respect and protect our environment.

Plan Your Visit Today!

Our visit to Save the Bay Aquarium was a memorable experience. The hands-on encounters, the knowledgeable staff, and the educational activities are outstanding. The only downside is that Save the Bay isn’t a bigger facility, but it certainly makes up for that in charm and engagement. So, head to Newport for a family adventure that’s both fun and enlightening. Visit Save the Bay to dive in and explore the wonders of our local waters with your kids! 🌊🐟🦀

 

The Skinny:

• Location :  Save The Bay Aquarium is a small scale hands-on educational center with touch tanks to teach kids about marine animals and better care for the planet
• Duration : 3 hours-the kids didn’t want to leave the hands-on touch tank
•  Cost :  $15 per person, children under 2 are FREE, discounts for senior citizens (ages 65+) $13, active or retired military are FREE with identification
• Parking :  Check for street parking or you can park at The Gateway Center, located at 23 America’s Cup Ave for $2.50 / half hour.
• Recommendations :  A younger children or those that are really interested in earth sciences and can absorb the educational materials in depth.  Walking around Newport is a must when visiting  Save the Bay as there are so many restaurants and places to see close by.  Check out our post on Newport ‘s Cliff Walk here.

Jewel Approved 👍 Jamison Approved 👍

 

If your children enjoy animals, explore Southwick’s Zoo in Massachusetts or Roger Williams Zoo in Rhode Island.  Another small hands-on aquarium is Biomes in Rhode Island.