The New York Aquarium is the oldest continually operating aquarium in the United States, having opened in Castle Garden in Battery Park, Manhattan in 1896. Since 1957, it has been located on the boardwalk in Coney Island, Brooklyn. The aquarium is operated by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) as part of its integrated system of four zoos and one aquarium, most notably the Bronx Zoo. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
As part of Wildlife Conservation Society, the aquarium's mission is to save wildlife and wild places worldwide through science, conservation action, education, and inspiring people to value nature.
Aerial view of the Aquarium, the boardwalk, and Luna Park – Brighton Beach, Coney Island
The newest and major exhibit, “Ocean Wonder: Sharks!,” is a must-see. A swanky 57,500-square-foot pavilion, situated right on the boardwalk, houses marine animals, including some of the exhibit’s titular saw-toothed predators.