Explore New Jersey's 'City under the Sea' at American Dream mall
EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey -- The Sea Life Aquarium is bringing visitors face to face with an enchanting "City under the Sea."
Home to more than 3,000 creatures representing about 100 species, Sea Life Aquarium, located at the America Dream mega-mall at the Meadowlands, lets you explore interactive experiences that educate guests about the ocean, its inhabitants, and the importance of preserving this undersea world.
"This aquarium is unlike any other. Our theme reflects the location we're in, so for instance, our ocean tank has iconic New York buildings all throughout the tank, and most of our exhibits have that whimsical feel as an homage to the area that we're in," said Rich Weddle, curator at Sea Life.
From sharks to stingrays, eels, seahorses, jellyfish, and piranhas, visitors of all ages can expect to learn and engage with these fascinating marine creatures.
Related: Admire the New York City skyline while paddling on the Hudson River
The aquarium's leading exhibit is a 186,000-gallon ocean tank, where you can enjoy panoramic views of fish, sharks, and other animals swimming in a "fishified" Manhattan, depicting landmarks such as the 'Coralizer Building' (Chrysler Building) and Times Square.
"We have 24 exhibits throughout the aquarium that have animals from all over the world. A lot of our exhibits are built-in with popup windows, where guests can get their heads up inside and feel like they're part of the tank itself," Weddle said.
The aquarium, which prides itself in its unique theme rather than recreating a slice of nature, is opened Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
"I think it's a fantastic place to visit! Our staff are really engaging and they really help you and your family have a magical time here," said Weddle.
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