The NOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center’s Woods Hole Science Aquarium will be closed to the public beginning May 1, 2023. A recent structural assessment of the Aquarium basement noted deterioration in a section of the concrete and rebar foundation and reservoir wall, and recommended repairs.
Out of an abundance of caution, we are allowing only essential access to the aquarium building while we determine the extent of the problem and put appropriate mitigation measures in place.
Visitors can still visit Bubba, our harbor seal, in his outdoor enclosure, Monday through Friday, 11:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. except for federal holidays. The indoor exhibits will be reopened once mitigation measures are completed.
Aquarium hours and opening schedules
Spencer Baird, the founder of NOAA Fisheries, opened the original Woods Hole Science Aquarium for public visits in 1875 when it became part of the first research facility for the U.S Fish Commission. The intent was, and remains, to use this historic facility for public education and awareness about the NOAA Fisheries mission and other partner science institutions in Woods Hole, the little village with big science.
