North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

The NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, near Wilmington, is one of three state-owned aquariums. Renovated in 2002, the facility continues to add new exhibits, programs and activities. In May 2009, the Aquarium welcomed a rare albino alligator named Luna. The "Exotic Aquatics" gallery features lionfish, spiny lobsters, dart frogs, Hawaiian fishes, and a living Pacific coral reef. Other exhibits showcase the State's diverse aquatic environments. More than 2,500 animals are on display, including alligators, venomous snakes, sharks, stingrays, moray eels, seahorses, sea turtles and colorful reef creatures. Daily live animal presentations, feedings, and dialogues with divers in a large ocean tank. Touch pools, films, gift shop, gardens, refreshments, and souvenir photos. Crafts, canoe trips, camps and more. Beachfront on US Hwy 421, between Kure Beach and the state ferry terminal. Open 9am-5pm, 362 days.

US Hwy 421 South past Kure Beach, 15 miles South of Wilmington. From Southport take the NC Ferry.