You drive by them almost daily, whether it's your commute home or a trip around town, saltmarshes are a staple of the Lowcountry. Now the
South Carolina Aquarium is bringing the beauty and wonder of them to you! On March 19, 2011 the Aquarium re-opened the
Saltmarsh Aviary, featuring a new experience where you can feed stingrays!
Fall back in love with the coast by visiting the 2,500-sq. ft. outdoor immersive exhibit. It features expansive views of the Charleston harbor and gives you the feeling of kayaking through a Lowcountry tidal creek. Explore the Lowcountry's largest habitat in this intimate exhibit, which features a variety of coastal plants, birds and marine life, including herons, diamondback terrapins and pufferfish.
After checking out all the wildlife, it's time to feed some. Just head over to
Gilligan's Shrimp Shack located right outside the exhibit and purchase a cup of local sustainable shrimp. You can then take that cup of shrimp to the all-new 6,000-gallon stingray tank inside the Saltmarsh Aviary and try your hand at feeding the gentle, gliding rays. More than 25 rays will bite the shrimp off the feeding device and swim away, but don't worry, they return shortly looking for another treat (feeding while supplies last).
The Saltmarsh Aviary offers you the opportunity to:
- Experience a Lowcountry saltmarsh up-close in an immersive exhibit
- Learn more about saltmarsh species like diamondback terrapins, stingrays, herons and much more!
- Discover why a saltmarsh is so vital to the Lowcountry ecosystem
- Feed stingrays local sustainable shrimp! (while supplies last)
- Step into a fishing village where you can touch stingrays in our indoor touch tank!
- Marvel at the amazing view of the Charleston Harbor and Ravenel bridge
About the South Carolina Aquarium:
The South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston's most-visited attraction, features thousands of amazing aquatic animals from river otters and sharks to loggerhead turtles in more than 50 exhibits representing the rich biodiversity of South Carolina from the mountains to the sea. Dedicated to promoting education and conservation, the Aquarium also presents fabulous views of Charleston harbor and interactive exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages.
The South Carolina Aquarium, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and is open Daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Aquarium is closed Thanksgiving Day, half day Dec. 24 (open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and Dec. 25. Admission prices are: Toddler's (1 and under) free; Youth (2-11) $10.95; Adults (12-61) $17.95; Seniors (62+) $16.95. The Aquarium plus the 4-D Theater experience is free for Toddler's, $15.95 for Children, $22.95 for Adults, and $21.95 for Seniors. The 4-D Theater experience only is $6.95 for Children, Adults and Seniors and $2.95 for Members and Member Guests. Military, senior, college and group discounts are available. For more information call (843) 720-1990 or visit
scaquarium.org. Memberships are available by calling (843) 577-FISH.