Thinking about a trip to the Mississippi Aquarium? You’re not alone. Many families and friends are eager to explore this aquatic wonderland, but figuring out ticket prices can feel a bit overwhelming.
Key Takeaways
- Ticket Prices: General admission for adults costs $25, seniors $20, and children $18, with kids under 3 free.
- Discount Options: Active-duty military personnel receive a 10% discount, and groups of 15 or more can take advantage of discounted rates.
- Membership Benefits: Yearly memberships start at $65, offering unlimited visits and additional perks, making it a great option for frequent visitors.
- Additional Fees: Budget for parking ($5), special experiences (behind-the-scenes tours at $35, animal encounters at $45), dining, and souvenirs.
- Competitive Pricing: The Mississippi Aquarium’s ticket prices are lower than many major aquariums, making it an affordable choice for family outings.
- Seasonal Promotions: Keep an eye on the aquarium’s official website for special promotional days with reduced admission prices.
Overview of Mississippi Aquarium
Mississippi Aquarium offers a dynamic experience for visitors of all ages. Located in Gulfport, it spans 5 acres and features numerous exhibits showcasing local and exotic marine life. You’ll find habitats like the coastal area, where playful otters swim, and the Mississippi River section, which features native fish and turtles.
The aquarium’s goal focuses on education and conservation. Interactive exhibits invite you to engage with marine life, including touch tanks where you can feel starfish and horseshoe crabs. Additionally, presentations by knowledgeable staff enhance your understanding of aquatic ecosystems.
The Mississippi Aquarium also provides unique experiences, such as behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters for an extra fee. These opportunities allow you to gain a closer look at the care and rehabilitation of marine animals. While planning your visit, consider visiting during special events, which often include extended hours and themed activities.
Overall, a trip to the Mississippi Aquarium guarantees an educational and enjoyable day, perfect for families and friends.
Ticket Pricing Options
Understanding the ticket pricing options for the Mississippi Aquarium helps you plan your visit more effectively. Look at the various prices and potential savings below.
General Admission Prices
- Adults (ages 13-64): $25
- Seniors (ages 65 and older): $20
- Children (ages 3-12): $18
- Children under 3: Free
These prices allow you to explore the aquarium’s diverse exhibits showcasing marine life and interactive educational experiences. Remember to check for any seasonal variations in pricing.
- Military Discount: Active-duty military personnel receive a 10% discount on ticket prices.
- Group Rates: Groups of 15 or more qualify for a discounted rate; advance booking is necessary.
- Membership Options: Purchase a yearly membership for unlimited visits and additional perks, starting at $65 for individuals.
- Seasonal Promotions: The aquarium occasionally offers promotional days with reduced admission prices. Keep an eye on their official website for updates.
These offers make visiting the Mississippi Aquarium more accessible, ensuring that you enjoy an enriching experience without breaking the bank.
Additional Fees and Charges
When planning your visit to the Mississippi Aquarium, consider potential additional fees and charges that may apply. Understanding these costs helps you budget effectively.
Parking Fees
Parking at the aquarium is subject to a fee. General parking is priced at $5 per vehicle. This charge is collected upon entry to the parking lot, so you’ll want to have cash or a credit card handy.
Special Experiences
The aquarium offers unique experiences for an extra fee:
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Gain insights into the aquarium’s operations and animal care for $35 per person.
- Animal Encounters: Interact with select marine animals for $45 per person. Popular encounters include feeding rays or sea turtles.
Food and Beverage
Dining options are available on-site. Meal prices vary, with sandwiches typically around $10 and kids’ meals around $5. If you plan to eat at the aquarium, budget accordingly.
Souvenirs
The gift shop features a variety of souvenirs. Prices range from $5 for small items to $30 for plush toys. If you wish to take home a memorable keepsake, allocate some funds.
By accounting for these additional fees and charges, you can enjoy your visit to the Mississippi Aquarium without any financial surprises.
Comparison with Other Aquariums
You’re likely curious about how ticket prices at the Mississippi Aquarium compare with other aquariums across the country. Understanding these differences can help you plan your visit better.
General Admission Prices
| Aquarium | Adults (13-64) | Seniors (65+) | Children (3-12) | Children Under 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mississippi Aquarium | $25 | $20 | $18 | Free |
| Georgia Aquarium | $39.95 | $34.95 | $34.95 | Free |
| Monterey Bay Aquarium | $49.95 | $44.95 | $29.95 | Free |
| Shedd Aquarium | $39.95 | $34.95 | $29.95 | Free |
You can see that the Mississippi Aquarium offers competitive pricing, especially when compared to larger aquariums. If you’re on a budget, you’ll appreciate the lower fees here.
Discounts and Memberships
Many aquariums provide discounts or memberships. Check out the following:
- Mississippi Aquarium: Discounts for active-duty military personnel and groups of 15 or more. Memberships start at $65, giving unlimited access.
- Georgia Aquarium: Offers similar military discounts. Memberships start at $120, which also includes special events.
- Monterey Bay Aquarium: Provides various discounts for local residents. Memberships begin at $75, featuring free parking and guest passes.
Reviewing these options can reveal substantial savings when visiting.
Additional Fees
Consider any extra charges.
- Mississippi Aquarium: $5 parking fee and special experiences priced at $35 (behind-the-scenes tours) and $45 (animal encounters).
- Georgia Aquarium: No parking fees but behind-the-scenes tours are about $55.
- Shedd Aquarium: $15 parking, with encounters around $70.
Being aware of these potential costs helps prepare for a budget-friendly day at any aquarium.
Conclusion
Familiarizing yourself with these price comparisons and options enhances your planning experience. The Mississippi Aquarium stands out for its affordability, especially for families seeking educational experiences without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Planning your visit to the Mississippi Aquarium can be both exciting and budget-friendly. With a variety of ticket options and discounts available you can easily find a price that works for you. Whether you’re bringing the whole family or just a few friends there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t forget to consider the additional experiences and dining options that can enhance your day. By keeping these factors in mind you’re set for a fantastic adventure at this amazing aquatic destination. Enjoy your visit and make some unforgettable memories!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about the Mississippi Aquarium?
The Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport spans 5 acres and features various exhibits of local and exotic marine life. It emphasizes education, conservation, and interactive experiences, including touch tanks and knowledgeable presentations. Unique behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters are also available for an additional fee.
How much do tickets cost at the Mississippi Aquarium?
General admission rates are $25 for adults (ages 13-64), $20 for seniors (65+), and $18 for children (ages 3-12). Children under 3 can enter for free. Discounts are available for military personnel and groups of 15 or more, with yearly memberships starting at $65.
Are there any additional fees when visiting the aquarium?
Yes, parking costs $5 per vehicle. Special experiences, like behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters, have additional fees of $35 and $45, respectively. On-site dining prices average around $10 for sandwiches and $5 for kids’ meals, and souvenir prices range from $5 to $30.
How do the ticket prices compare to other aquariums?
The Mississippi Aquarium offers competitive pricing, especially when compared to larger aquariums like the Georgia and Shedd Aquariums. Its admission prices are generally lower, making it a budget-friendly option for families seeking an educational outing.
Are there seasonal promotions available for admission?
Yes, seasonal promotions may offer reduced admission prices for visitors. It’s a good idea to check the aquarium’s website or contact them directly to stay updated on any current offers and savings when planning your visit.
