The Woods Hole Science Aquarium displays approximately 80 species of marine animals found in Northeast and Mid-Atlantic U.S. waters. The aquarium is designed for self-guided tours of the main exhibits and a behind-the-scenes look at aquarium operations.
The aquarium will be closed starting September 21, 2025, for the major repair to the basement foundation.
The foundation issue was flagged in a 2023 inspection, and our agency has made this repair a priority to ensure the stability of the aquarium’s back gallery.
During construction, the aquarium's water and life support systems will be offline for an estimated 8 months. We've made the difficult but necessary decision to release or rehome the majority of our collection in the lead-up to construction.
Rehoming includes our harbor seal Bubba, who will go to a new permanent home at Fort Wayne Zoo. Reopening post-construction will be gradual as systems come back online, habitats are reestablished, and animals are reintroduced. We will post updates here as we make progress.
Thank you!
WHSA Team
Visit Our Animals
Thanks to the scientific community that is Woods Hole, a number of animals have found temporary homes. Check back to learn where they have landed.
Contact
Woods Hole Science Aquarium
166 Water Street
Woods Hole, MA 02543
Call (508) 495-2001 to hear our current operating schedule.
Aquarium Access
- Wheelchair access: the aquarium's first floor and seal enclosure are accessible. The second floor, where you can see behind-the-scenes area and visit the touch tank, can be accessed using a ramp at the rear of the aquarium. If you need wheelchair access for this ramp, please notify the reception desk on arrival.
- No pets allowed indoors or in the seal habitat. Service dogs permitted.
- No strollers indoors. All strollers must be left outside, owing to our small size.
- No standing on the half-wall surrounding the seal habitat.
- The seals at Woods Hole Science Aquarium are protected by federal law. Please follow all posted rules and respect our seal exhibit hours of operation while visiting the seal enclosure.
Aquarium Features
- Animals of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic waters.
- Exhibit cases with bones, skulls, and teeth.
- Information about Woods Hole science and history, fishery science, marine mammals, sea turtles, and local fish species.
- Touch tanks where you may find small fish, crabs, sea stars, whelks, shells, and egg casings.
More Information
- Find out more about visiting the Aquarium
- Learn more about our exhibits
- Download Aquarium activity sheets
Programs
We offer a number of programs to involve the public, students, and aspiring scientists.
Education
From visitors to students from near and far, the Aquarium offers fascinating learning experiences for all ages.
