River otters, alligators, and rehabilitating sea turtles, all built around the waters right outside Manteo
The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island sits on the sound side of the island's north end, just off Airport Road and a short drive from downtown Manteo. It's one of three state-run aquariums along the North Carolina coast, and this one builds its exhibits around the water that actually defines the Outer Banks — sounds, marshes, swamp, and open ocean — rather than treating marine life as a general spectacle.
Exhibits move through the habitats that surround Roanoke Island itself: freshwater wetlands, tidal creeks, and the Atlantic beyond the barrier islands. Expect river otters, alligators, and touch tanks alongside the fish and invertebrates that share these waters with the local fishing fleets. The aquarium is also known for its work with sea turtles, running a rehabilitation program for turtles recovered after being injured or stranded along Outer Banks beaches and sound waters — work that's visible to visitors rather than kept behind the scenes.
9,131 reviews
a month ago
Was worth a visit. The carnivorous plant garden was really cool. The pier outside was also nice to sit and enjoy a cold drink as it was really hot. Employees were super nice. I gave it a four because it is not quite as big as Pine Knoll Shores, not quite as much fish to see. But definitely check it out if you're in the area.
a month ago
An amazing aquarium! The family has a terrific time. The exhibits were very cool and well done. I liked the digital displays for information. My favorite parts were the jellyfish area and the USS Monitor display and movie! We vacationed here for years and I had walked to come and finally did. It was worth it! The outdoor carnivorous plant display was also really cool.
2 months ago
The NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island is an amazing place with so many great attractions. They have a wide variety of animals, including snakes, frogs, fish, and tons of sea creatures. One of the best parts is the 'quiet zone,' a dedicated area where they bring in sea turtles for rehabilitation until they are well enough to be released. They also have an interactive touch tank where you can touch stingrays, fish, and sea urchins. My personal favorite parts were the incredible jellyfish and the shark tank! The kids had an absolute blast experiencing everything, and they even got to pick out souvenirs from the gift shop at the end. Outside, they have a lovely garden with different types of flowers, a nature walk, and a pier that gives you a great lookout toward Manns Harbor. If you have kids and want a fun experience, this is a great spot!
3 weeks ago
amazing local aquarium with well-kept installations and care for the animals. our favorites: the touch tank with urchins, rays, and nurse sharks; the gigantic tank towards the end with the sand tiger sharks; the sea turtle rehab center with a juvenile green turtle set to release next week! very educational experience for all ages. parking was easy to find (we went a couple hours before closing)
2 months ago
My first experience at an aquarium but it didn’t disappoint. My favorite part was being able to see the otters, but in my excitement I forgot to take any photos of them. My family and I were excited to learn a lot about all the different marine wildlife. There was also a very knowledgeable student who taught us a lot about leatherback turtles. She seemed very well informed and did a great job at relaying that information in a way my children could understand. We will definitely be back.