Bill and Janet Sobolow from Brooklyn enjoyed ongoing exhibits such as the “Sea Lion Celebration” at the large outdoor Aquatheater.
“It was absolutely adorable and phenomenal,” one of their kids called out, and the parents agreed. They said they looked forward to seeing the shark exhibit next.
The Donald Zucker and Barbara Hrbek Zucker “Ocean Wonders: Sharks!” exhibit was popular. It opened in 2018 and featured a colorful underwater coral reef tunnel with over 150 marine species and 18 different kinds of sharks and rays that swam over and around visitors. There were also a variety of interactive experiences, films, animations and 3D models that promoted ocean conservation.
Spineless Invertebrates exhibit. Photo: Loretta Chin, Brooklyn Eagle
In another section of the exhibit is the Hudson Canyon’s Edge, which houses a replica of the east coast’s largest submarine canyon located approximately 100 miles southeast of the Statue of Liberty. It serves as a satellite research facility by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to educate visitors about the importance of protecting the endangered Atlantic Sturgeon.
“Ascarium” served two purposes: to celebrate Halloween and to expose children to environmental issues that affect waterways, which is truly scary.
With colorfully painted faces from the face painting tent, Saama Shaikh and her family members were also excited to see the shark exhibit, which they said was their favorite of all the attractions.
“If you go out with your friends and go trick or treating, it’s not going to be as much fun as you’re having here,” said Shaikh.
First weekend of the Community Mural. Photo: Loretta Chin, Brooklyn Eagle
Founded in 1896 in Castle Clinton, the NYA moved to the Bronx Zoo before moving to its current home in Coney Island in 1957. It is the oldest continually operating aquarium in the U.S. and the only full-scale aquarium in New York City.
Located off the boardwalk at Coney Island, the NYA sits on 14 acres along the Atlantic Coast at 602 Surf Ave. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. NYA serves more than 750,000 visitors annually.
NYA is a part of the Wildlife Conservation Society, which manages the world’s largest network of urban wildlife parks which includes the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo and Queens Zoo.
According to NYA, they strive to make a connection between their visitors and the oceans, focusing on field research their scientists are doing offshore in the waters of New York and around the globe. The scientists’ work in their Conservation Program — including shark and whale tagging, ecological monitoring and protection of local habitat — continues a legacy of ocean science at the aquarium.
With seven exhibits and six experiences, including the Aquatheater, PlayQuarium, 4D Theater, “Sharks!” and more, there’s plenty to see and do throughout the year in any weather. All activities are included with the price of admission.
Seahorses and Octopi come to life at the arts and crafts table in the Wildlife Theater. Photo: Loretta Chin, Brooklyn Eagle
Clayton said that this year’s “Ascarium” was expanded to three weekends in response to great community demand.
Halloween celebrations have been a longstanding tradition at the NYA, which has undergone major renovations since Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Post-renovations, “Ascarium” is in its third year and runs Oct. 11-13, 18-19 and 25-26 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“It is a truly one-of-a-kind celebration and the perfect way to make seasonal memories with loved ones,” Clayton said.