Home to over 5000 animals the South Carolina Aquarium is more than just a place to see wildlife. It is a hub for conservation and education. The South Carolina Aquarium is located on the historic Charleston Harbor. From here you get unparalleled views. Look around. Notice the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and the USS Yorktown.
The South Carolina Aquarium is committed to connecting people with water wildlife and wild places. Inside are dozens of exhibits. They showcase the stunning waterfront views. The exhibits allow you to connect with the natural world. Your visit helps the aquarium care for sick turtles. It helps the aquarium educate students. It helps continue critical conservation work.
Opened in May 2000 the South Carolina Aquarium has become a cornerstone of Charleston. It welcomes visitors. It offers educational programs. It actively works to protect our precious marine life. The South Carolina Aquarium focuses on species native to South Carolina. This makes its exhibits a unique regional experience.
Notice the aquarium jutting 200 feet into the Charleston Harbor. Inside the South Carolina Aquarium encompasses the Southeast Appalachian Watershed. This area is found right here in South Carolina. You will see exhibits from the Mountain Forest to the Ocean. The 93000 square-foot building holds over 100 exhibits. These exhibits feature 6000 to 7000 aquatic animals. See river otters and sharks. Admire the loggerhead turtles.
The South Carolina Aquarium is also home to the Sea Turtle Care Center. Here sick and injured sea turtles receive treatment. Staff veterinarians perform surgeries. They administer x-rays and IVs. They even provide blood transfusions.
The Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery exhibit allows you to witness this amazing work. The exhibit opened in May 2017. It makes the turtle rehabilitation visible to everyone. Interactive stations teach about the causes of sea turtle stranding. You can even practice diagnosing a mock patient.
Since 2000 the South Carolina Aquarium has released hundreds of rehabilitated sea turtles. The McNair Center for Sea Turtle Research and Conservation enhances the aquarium’s turtle program. The South Carolina Aquarium also promotes responsible seafood consumption. Its Good Catch program partners with local restaurants and fisheries.
In 2019 the South Carolina Aquarium received the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. This is the nation’s highest honor for museums. It recognized the aquarium’s focus on local species. It also recognized its dedication to tackling environmental issues.
As you explore the South Carolina Aquarium consider the impact of its work. It inspires conservation. It educates the public. It contributes significantly to our understanding of aquatic ecosystems.