Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab

The Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, located at 102 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528, stands as a premier attraction that offers an immersive and educational experience centered on the diverse aquatic habitats of coastal Alabama. This unique aquarium is part of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Alabama’s marine science research and education center, which has been a cornerstone for marine research and learning for over four decades. The aquarium itself serves as a public gateway to understanding the intricate ecosystems of the region, showcasing the four key habitats that define coastal Alabama: the Mobile Tensaw River Delta, Mobile Bay, the Barrier Islands, and the Northern Gulf of Mexico.

Visitors to the Alabama Aquarium are treated to a variety of hands-on and interactive exhibits designed to bring the science of marine environments to life. These exhibits not only display the rich biodiversity of the area but also emphasize the ecological interactions that sustain these habitats. The aquarium’s design encourages engagement and learning, making it an ideal destination for families, students, and anyone interested in the natural world. One of the highlights includes the large outdoor touch tank, where guests can get up close with stingrays during daily feedings, fostering a direct connection with marine life. Indoor tank feedings on weekends further enhance the visitor experience by providing opportunities to observe and learn about the behaviors of various aquatic species.

The Alabama Aquarium’s commitment to education is evident in its live exhibits, such as the Mobile Bay gallery, which features a large tank replicating the environment around Middle Bay Lighthouse. This exhibit includes species like speckled trout and spadefish, the latter being the Sea Lab’s mascot. Another popular exhibit, Rays of the Bay, showcases four species of rays alongside bonnethead sharks and mullet, offering a vivid glimpse into the underwater world of the Gulf Coast. These exhibits are complemented by live camera feeds that provide real-time views of aquatic life, enhancing the educational value and visitor engagement.

As part of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, the Alabama Aquarium benefits from the Lab’s extensive research and conservation efforts. The Sea Lab is not only a center for public education but also a hub for scientific inquiry, where researchers study the Gulf of Mexico’s ecosystems to better understand and protect them. This dual role enriches the aquarium’s offerings, ensuring that the information presented is both current and scientifically accurate. The Sea Lab’s educational programs reach thousands of K-12 students annually, making the aquarium a vital resource for regional marine science education.

The Alabama Aquarium is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, with the last ticket sold at 4 PM, providing ample opportunity for visitors to explore and learn. Admission is reasonably priced, making it accessible to a wide audience. The facility also features a unique gift shop where visitors can take home souvenirs that celebrate the marine heritage of Alabama.

In summary, the Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab is more than just a tourist attraction; it is an engaging educational venue that connects people with the coastal environments of Alabama through interactive exhibits, live animal encounters, and cutting-edge marine science research. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to Dauphin Island, the aquarium offers a memorable and enlightening experience that highlights the beauty and complexity of Alabama’s aquatic habitats. For more information or to plan a visit, the aquarium can be contacted at +1 251-861-7500.