CLEVELAND – Much of the buzz in Cleveland is swirling around the grand opening of the new aquarium this weekend — and its admission prices.
There has been mixed reaction from our fans on the opening of arguably Cleveland’s next hottest tourist attraction: the Greater Cleveland Aquarium.
Doors open to the public on Saturday and admission for adults is $21.95, children ages 2-12 is $15.95 and parking will cost you $3.
A Google search of aquariums nearby and around the U.S. showed Cleveland’s adult admission prices to be in line with others to get an up-close look at aquatic animals.
- Georgia Aquarium $34.95 + $1 parking
- National Aquarium (Baltimore) $24.95
- Aquarium of the Pacific (California) $24.95
- Newport Aquarium (Cincinnati) $23
- Ripley’s Aquarium (Myrtle Beach) $21.99
- Greater Cleveland Aquarium $21.95 + $3 parking
Chicago’s aquarium has an admission price of $8, but it only includes three of nine exhibits. Each additional exhibit add-on costs more cash. Some of the above listed aquariums offer discounted days. It’s unclear what kind of promotion, if any, Cleveland’s new aquarium will give.
One NewsChannel5 fan posted this comment on our Facebook page. In part, she said, “realistically there are many people, especially in Cleveland, who just can’t afford to pay these prices.”
Others on the social networking site find Cleveland’s aquarium pricing to be fair. “I will definitely be going,” another woman posted. “The price is cheap, considering we paid $45 for a family of 4 just to see a movie on Monday. Can’t wait!!”
Some people have been curious about the no stroller policy. GM Tamera Brown said it’s only temporary.
At least an hour and a half will be needed to see everything inside the 70,000 square foot facility. The new attraction is hoping to see 400,000-500,000 visitors and generate $27 million for the city. It boasts a 145-foot SeaTube, a n underwater walk-through experience where sharks and rays surround you. It also features an interactive coastal zone where you can touch the more fearsome residents.
