New York Aquarium

Because of the long subway ride (about an hour from midtown Manhattan) and its proximity to Coney Island, it’s best to combine the two attractions, preferably in the summer. This surprisingly good aquarium is home to hundreds of sea creatures. Taking center stage are California sea lions that perform daily at the Aquatheater. Also basking in the spotlight are gangly Pacific octopuses, sharks, and a brand-new sea-horse exhibit. Black-footed penguins, California sea otters, and a variety of seals live at the Sea Cliffs exhibit, a re-creation of a Pacific coastal habitat. But my absolute favorites are the beautiful white beluga whales, which exude buckets of aquatic charm. Children love the hands-on exhibits at Touch Pool. There’s an indoor oceanview cafeteria and an outdoor snack bar, plus picnic tables.

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