The Camden Adventure Aquarium has brought back one of their most popular exhibits, and it’s quite magical to say the least.
In celebration of the Aquarium’s 30th birthday, Mermaids is open once again to Philadelphians and beyond every Thursday through Sunday from Feb. 24 to March 13 of this year. You can expect to see a unique showcase of what the CAA has to offer, with the added wonder of these mythical creatures coming to life through the efforts of talented performers.
The pandemic halted the experience temporarily, but now visitors have a chance to see real-life mermaids dive beneath the waves and swim among 15,000 amazing animals in the 550,000-gallon Shark Realm exhibit, wade with the stingrays above the waves, and more.
“The best way to celebrate the Aquarium’s 30th birthday is with a little magic from mermaids,” explained Molly Deese, Adventure Aquarium Executive Director in a statement. “It’s been over two years since mermaids have appeared at Adventure Aquarium, and we’re thrilled to have them back to entertain and mesmerize new and returning guests.”
The experience features, as stated before, mermaids swimming underwater in the Shark Realm Exhibit, which also happens to hold the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast. The mermaids will also be among the rays in their own ‘Beach Club,’ or visitors can enjoy a one-on-one visit with a mermaid on dry land in their Mermaid Grotto. While there, professional photos can be taken.
Kiddos can also create a magical mermaid tail or pirate hat craft with the help of an Adventure Aquarium team member, and all guests can also get their face painted (with the decision of being a mermaid or pirate at bay.) The ever-popular ‘Walk the Plank’ game show will also return with new mermaid-themed categories, and audience members are pitted against each other to save their team from walking said plank.
Special mermaid-themed items will be available, including mermaid-themed cotton candy, Dippin’ Dots, Mermaid lollipops, cookies, pudding, and an ‘Under the Sea’ sandwich, as well as new mermaid merchandise, from apparel to puzzles and plushes will be available while supplies last in the gift shop.
The experience doesn’t just stop within the walls of the Adventure Aquarium either, as the CAA and mermaids are committed to ocean conservation and improving the health of the world’s oceans for the animals that live there. According to a release, guests can learn more about the work the mermaids are eager to share as their passion for conservation shines, and families can learn ways to help long after their visit, including saying no to single-use straws and plastic bags. Visitors are encouraged to learn more and ask the mermaids why clean water is crucial for land and ocean life and how humans can help reduce plastics in the ocean.
Mermaids is included with daily tickets and Camden Adventure Aquarium memberships. Reservations are strongly encouraged. To purchase tickets, visit adventureaquarium.com
