Newport Aquarium Tours

Newport Aquarium
Newport Aquarium
Newport Aquarium
Newport Aquarium
Newport Aquarium


Find yourself face-to-face with thousands of aquatic species from around the world at this popular aquarium just across the river from Cincinnati.

At the Newport Aquarium more than 7,000 aquatic creatures from every continent live in more than one million gallons (nearly four million liters) of water. Experience the sensation of being surrounded by deep-sea creatures and river fish as you wander through the long tunnels of one of the most visited aquariums in the Midwest. Go to Shark Central to touch ocean predators. Learn about other dangerous and deadly fish, or gaze at bizarre and beautiful species.

The Newport Aquarium has been a favorite for locals and visitors since it opened in 1999. The displays are great for families with small children as they are somewhat limited. You can easily browse the entire aquarium in about two hours.

Immerse yourself in a world of water and encounter creatures from all over the globe. Walk through tunnels where you may find yourself surrounded by sharks. See-through floors show shoals of colorful reef fish under your feet. Meet Sweet Pea and Scooter, the local stars of the worlds’ first endangered shark ray breeding program.

Embrace your fear and touch the perfectly safe sharks in Shark Central. Visit the mesmerizing Jellyfish Gallery, where you’ll see the poisonous lionfish and stonefish. Gator Alley has more dangerous creatures, including many types of crocodiles. Far less frightening are the tiny seahorses and turtles in the ocean displays.

Every day, 15 minutes after opening, one lucky child is chosen to be the Grand Marshall and lead the daily Penguin Parade. Anyone can go backstage at the Coral Reef Tank, Giant Shark Tank and Amazon River Tank for an extra fee.

The Newport Aquarium is part of Newport on the Levee entertainment center, a 10-minute drive from downtown Cincinnati, crossing the Dan C. Beard Bridge over the Ohio River. The TANK shuttle bus from downtown Cincinnati stops near the complex. If you are driving here on a weekend, consider visiting in the afternoon or at night as the paid car park fills up quickly in the mornings.

The aquarium, café and gift shop are open daily. Opening hours are seasonal, so check the website for exact times.

The aquarium can get very crowded. During peak hours, there’s sometimes a “timed-ticket policy,” with entry times booked in advance online. If you haven’t booked a set entry time, you may be asked to come back later.

Plan a trip to see Newport Aquarium

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Embassy Suites by Hilton Cincinnati RiverCenter
voco The Clair Cincinnati Downtown by IHG
Hotel Covington Cincinnati Riverfront

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Best Lodging Options Near Newport Aquarium

Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza

Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza

4 out of 5
35 W 5th St Cincinnati OH
Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza
Radisson Hotel Cincinnati Riverfront

Radisson Hotel Cincinnati Riverfront

3.5 out of 5
668 W 5th St Covington KY
Radisson Hotel Cincinnati Riverfront
The Westin Cincinnati

The Westin Cincinnati

4 out of 5
21 E 5th St Cincinnati OH
The Westin Cincinnati
Hampton Inn & Suites Newport/Cincinnati

Hampton Inn & Suites Newport/Cincinnati

2.5 out of 5
275 Columbia Street Newport KY
Hampton Inn & Suites Newport/Cincinnati
Homewood Suites By Hilton Newport Cincinnati

Homewood Suites By Hilton Newport Cincinnati

3 out of 5
201 West 4th Street Newport KY
Homewood Suites By Hilton Newport Cincinnati
Embassy Suites by Hilton Cincinnati RiverCenter

Embassy Suites by Hilton Cincinnati RiverCenter

3.5 out of 5
10 E Rivercenter Blvd Covington KY
Embassy Suites by Hilton Cincinnati RiverCenter
Aloft Newport On The Levee

Aloft Newport On The Levee

3 out of 5
201 E 3rd St Newport KY
Aloft Newport On The Levee
AC Hotel by Marriott Cincinnati at The Banks

AC Hotel by Marriott Cincinnati at The Banks

4 out of 5
135 Joe Nuxhall Way Cincinnati OH
AC Hotel by Marriott Cincinnati at The Banks
Hyatt Regency Cincinnati

Hyatt Regency Cincinnati

4 out of 5
151 West Fifth Street Cincinnati OH
Hyatt Regency Cincinnati
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Newport Aquarium

When visiting Newport Aquarium in Newport, Kentucky, you can explore a variety of exciting activities and attractions. Enjoy an unforgettable aquarium experience, purchase admission tickets, and discover family-friendly attractions nearby. Don't miss out on the adventure aquarium and other select attractions, as well as local offerings like baseball, sports, and live music to enhance your visit.

Shopping

The closest shopping destination is Newport on the Levee, only 0.1 miles from the aquarium, offering entertainment and family vibes. For a local experience, check out Findlay Market, 2 miles away, or Rookwood Commons, 5 miles away, which features a mix of shopping and entertainment options.

Recreation

At Great American Ball Park, enjoy a vibrant atmosphere while catching a game, just 0.6 miles from the aquarium. For music lovers, Riverbend Music Center, located 5 miles away, offers concerts in a scenic outdoor venue. Taft Theatre, 0.8 miles away, provides a charming space for cultural performances and family entertainment.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Ride The Ducks Newport, an outdoor adventure located 0 miles from Newport Aquarium, offering fun on land and water. For more excitement, visit Madison Bowl, an arcadeAdventureZone 6 miles away, perfect for family-friendly entertainment, or enjoy a whimsical ride at Carol Ann’s Carousel, situated 0.8 miles away.

Nightlife

Experience Newport Aquarium's nightlife with special evening events, where you can enjoy unique animal encounters and scenic views of the Ohio River. Nearby, explore vibrant bars and restaurants along the waterfront, perfect for unwinding after a day of aquatic adventures.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Newport Aquarium

Whether you're seeking a family outing or an outdoor adventure, Newport Aquarium offers a variety of attractions, including urban parks and historic sites. Explore the wonders of aquatic life and enjoy the excitement of the aquarium adventure. Don't miss the chance to visit local points of interest that provide a rich cultural experience, all while being close to the home of the Newport Aquarium.

  • Heritage Bank Center: This lively arena is perfect for family entertainment, hosting a variety of events, including concerts and sports games. With its vibrant atmosphere, it's a great spot to catch a show while enjoying time with loved ones, located 0.6 miles from Newport Aquarium.
  • Ohio River: A scenic outdoor destination, the Ohio River offers beautiful views and opportunities for leisurely strolls or picnics along the waterfront. Just 0.7 miles from the aquarium, it's a serene place to unwind and soak in nature.
  • Fountain Square: This bustling piazza is a cultural hub in the city, featuring art installations, performances, and a variety of dining options. Located 1 mile from the aquarium, it’s a fantastic spot to experience local culture and community vibes.

Best time to go to Newport Aquarium

The best time to visit Newport Aquarium is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January31.5°F (-0.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February34.5°F (1.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March44.4°F (6.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June72.7°F (22.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July76.3°F (24.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
November45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December37.6°F (3.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Newport Aquarium

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically December to February) for more affordable package holidays to Newport Aquarium.
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