Finish up that Nathan’s dog, slurp that last drop of fresh lemonade, wipe your hands and get over to the wonderful and watery New York institution boasting as its claim to fame the fact that it’s the longest continually operating aquarium in the United States! The AA accredited New York Aquarium opened at Castle Garden in Battery Park, Manhattan, in 1896 where it operated until its relocation to the Coney Island Boardwalk in 1959 and is managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society as part of an integrated system of four zoos and the aquarium. Situated on 14 oceanfront acres, this waterworld comfortably houses over 350 aquatic species showing off their fine form in exceptional exhibits. Explore the awesome diversity of marine habitat-visit the coral reefs, freshwater lakes and flooded forests of Conservation Hall-get acquainted with the wonderful relationship of the colorful clown fish and the infamously irritable sea anemone. Introduce yourself to the wiggling walruses at Sea Cliffs-watch them slurp delightful herring snacks from a giant straw while hungry sea otters engage in a rollicking game of fetch-for lunch-and precocious penguins bob for prizes in their 300-foot *Rocky Pacific Coastline* habitat; meet and mingle with whiskery Aquatheater Stars at Sea Lion Celebration! (Psssst-Coming soon: the 57,000 square foot “Ocean Wonders: Sharks” exhibit!)
