Boston's Waterfront Jewel: The New England Aquarium
We've visited aquariums around the world, most recently Oceanworld and the Sydney Aquarium, both in Australia. We've enjoyed exploration of the Bermuda Aquarium and the Waikiki Aquarium in Hawaii. Trips to San Diego invariable lead to SeaWorld; vacationing in northern California takes us to the Monterey Bay Aquarium; and we regularly trek out to New York City's Coney Island because we love the New York Aquarium so much. But having spent much time in the Boston area in our youth, the New England Aquarium remains our first love. When we were little, the center tank seemed unbelievably HUGE, and we remember taking hours to walk up the circular ramp that surrounds it. So we were delighted to read recently, that the Aquarium has recovered from the financial difficulties that resulted from poor attendance related to the Big Dig and the post-9/11 tourist slump. Attendance is up and grant money is on the rise. Thankfully, the welfare of the sea animals was never in danger, and research and conservation efforts continued unabated. But the improved financial picture will allow the Aquarium to modernize its electrical system and to expand its programs. Want to do your part to help make sure this gem (and the 2nd most visited attraction in Boston) remains on solid financial footing? Well, first of all, visit early and often: the Aquarium counts on ticket sales for 2/3 of its operating budget. You might also consider attending the Sea Glass Gala on October 28th, or if that isn't possible, participating in the Aquarium's online auction. The Aquarium defines its mission as presenting, promoting and protecting the world of water -- and if that isn't a worthwhile cause, we are hard pressed to think of what is.
posted by Insider Travel Guides at 7:45 PM
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