The Camden Adventure Aquarium is always filled with underwater creatures—even mermaids.
From Feb. 21 to March 16 (Fridays through Sundays only), locals can head to the Camden Adventure Aquarium during this annual festival, which brings visitors into South Jersey’s own “Mer-World” to see “real-life” mermaids diving among its collection of sandbar, sand tiger and nurse sharks.
“We’re beyond excited to bring the enchanting world of mermaids back to Adventure Aquarium,” said Melissa Patterson, events manager for the Aquarium, in a statement. “This festival is truly one-of-a-kind, bringing to life the magic of mermaids—something you usually only encounter in movies or storybooks. The wonder and excitement of this event create lasting memories for families, making it a tradition they’ll want to revisit year after year.”
The underwater experience happens in the Shark Realm, and guests can interact and take photos with the beauties in front of a movie-screen-sized window while they’re in the 550,000-gallon exhibit. Last year, the Aquarium pivoted away from timed tickets, so visitors can roam freely again throughout the open format pop-up.
The Adventure Aquarium will also showcase the magical creatures in their own Mermaid Beach Club (which will call the Stingray Beach Club home) where families will be able to stop by to see them wading above the surface amongst cownose and southern stingrays.
Mermaid fans can additionally join in on a meet and greet at Mermaids’ Manor to meet them up close on their clamshell throne (and acquire a photo keepsake), and kids can also take part in a mermaid-inspired craft in the form of their own DIY themed bracelet.
During the Festival, Adventure Aquarium will host extended hours on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. As a release notes, to guarantee admission, guests are strongly encouraged to make advance reservations, as high demand is anticipated, and sellouts are likely. Those looking to enjoy this event and more can also consider becoming Members for unlimited, year-round access to Adventure Aquarium’s collection of aquatic species and events.
Tickets ($30-$50, kids under 13 and seniors are discounted) are available online at adventureaquarium.com
