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Aquariums and Museums Across the United States
Aquariums and Museums Across the United States
Vacations can be a time to learn and broaden your horizons through engaging and fun ways that may not exist in your hometown. Whether your trip is a quick weekend getaway or a longer stay with a curated itinerary, many cities across the United States have aquariums and museums to captivate young minds and entertain the young at heart.
See creatures large and small in all manner of distinct colors and patterns.
Monterey, California
The city of Monterey contains the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Since its opening in 1984, guests come to view creatures as small as a shrimp to as large as a shark, with many guests seeing them for the first time in their lives. Perhaps its most popular offering is the live feedings of penguins and sea otters. This activity is offered multiple times a week, delighting guests of all ages. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is also the inspiration for the Marine Life Institute from the 2016 Disney/Pixar film “Finding Dory”.
Witness the brightly colored buildings along the boardwalk in Monterey, California.
Located half a mile away lies the Thomas Kinkade Gallery of Monterey. Open year-round, it showcases the art of the late painter Thomas Kinkade, the “Painter of Light” as he called himself. Available for both viewing and purchase, his artwork is display around the world and even on many cruise ships. Popular themes include rustic country landscapes, superheroes, military tributes, romance and even local areas in Monterey and the nearby city Carmel by the Sea. Visitors of all backgrounds will surely find inspiration when visiting this cozy venue.
Located half a mile away lies the Thomas Kinkade Gallery of Monterey. Open year-round, it showcases the art of the late painter Thomas Kinkade, the “Painter of Light” as he called himself. Available for both viewing and purchase, his artwork is display around the world and even on many cruise ships. Popular themes include rustic country landscapes, superheroes, military tributes, romance and even local areas in Monterey and the nearby city Carmel by the Sea. Visitors of all backgrounds will surely find inspiration when visiting this cozy venue.
Witness the brightly colored buildings along the boardwalk in Monterey, California.
The Lionfish is an eye-catching resident of the Shark Reef Aquarium.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Many are surprised to learn that Las Vegas has activities for all ages. One such option is the Shark Reef Aquarium in the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. This marine attraction is at the southern end of the strip where you can come face-to-face with jellyfish, sharks, octopi, and turtles. Must see viewing areas include a glass tunnel guests can walk through, surrounded by marine life and a replica shipwreck to view. Additional experiences for purchase include shark and stingray feedings. This is a great place to cool off on hot days.
Take a selfie in front of the lights and signs of modern and vintage Las Vegas.
Not all museums are located entirely inside a building. The Neon Museum displays signage used in Las Vegas as early as the 1930’s through today. During the day, visitors can view these pieces from a few feet away to appreciate the paintwork, engineering, and dedication that goes into these historic pieces of advertising. However, at night this place glows with the vintage feel of Las Vegas from the mid-twentieth century. Tours can sell out, so be sure to book this trip through history in advance. One of their newest tours highlights neon signs that have appeared in movies. For their premium experience, guests can add on a helicopter tour and guided land tour.
Not all museums are located entirely inside a building. The Neon Museum displays signage used in Las Vegas as early as the 1930’s through today. During the day, visitors can view these pieces from a few feet away to appreciate the paintwork, engineering, and dedication that goes into these historic pieces of advertising. However, at night this place glows with the vintage feel of Las Vegas from the mid-twentieth century. Tours can sell out, so be sure to book this trip through history in advance. One of their newest tours highlights neon signs that have appeared in movies. For their premium experience, guests can add on a helicopter tour and guided land tour.
Take a selfie in front of the lights and signs of modern and vintage Las Vegas.
For other sites to see, we recommend these 5 Things to Do in Las Vegas.
Stand in the presence of the world’s currently known largest fish.
Atlanta, Georgia
Not just known for its state’s delicious peaches, Atlanta is home to the largest aquarium in the United States. The Georgia Aquarium allows guests to marvel at such rare sights as the whale shark, the largest currently known fish in world. The aquarium hosts six viewable and is currently one of only five aquariums in the world to harbor these gentle giants. Not all creatures are fully submerged here, though. Visitors can view African penguins, horned puffins and the eye-catchingly colorful poison dart frogs. The facility offers diving with marine life, “Behind the Seas” tour, and even options to sleep in the aquarium overnight. These experiences should be booked in advance.
Be ready to learn about the beverages, taste samples, and admire art when you visit.
For a recap of its “refreshingly crisp” history and taste flavors from abroad, be sure to visit the World of Coca-Cola museum, located less than half a mile away from the Georgia Aquarium. See items from the company’s history dating from the 1800’s and sample exotic Coca-Cola flavors, some exclusively marketed and sold in other countries. The museum includes a 2-D and 3-D theater covering significant moments in the company’s history, a polar bear mascot meet and greet, and a chance for guests to see the vault where the secret recipe is stored. A visit here is sure to be a fun, thought-provoking experience.
For a recap of its “refreshingly crisp” history and taste flavors from abroad, be sure to visit the World of Coca-Cola museum, located less than half a mile away from the Georgia Aquarium. See items from the company’s history dating from the 1800’s and sample exotic Coca-Cola flavors, some exclusively marketed and sold in other countries. The museum includes a 2-D and 3-D theater covering significant moments in the company’s history, a polar bear mascot meet and greet, and a chance for guests to see the vault where the secret recipe is stored. A visit here is sure to be a fun, thought-provoking experience.
Be ready to learn about the beverages, taste samples, and admire art when you visit.
Having an extremely close family dynamic, African painted dogs rarely travel far from each other for long.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Located next to the Mississippi River the Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans is a popular conservation center that has three grounds for guests to visit. They include the Audubon Aquarium, neighboring Audubon Insectarium and, located across town, Audubon Zoo. The Audubon Aquarium presents guests with unexpected experiences such as penguins, sloths, and a VR adventure to explore the expansive ocean. Next door, Audubon Insectarium guests can walk through the Butterfly Garden, see various colonies of ants and visit multiple habitats throughout. The Audubon Zoo contains over a dozen themed areas, displaying rare animals such as the cute African painted dogs in the African Savana, the imposing Komodo dragons in the Reptile Encounter, and the clever-looking mandrills in the World of Primates exhibit plus much more.
Get up close and personal with the artistry that has helped make New Orleans known around the world.
Arguably the most popular festival in all of Louisiana is Mardi Gras, which occurs yearly the day before Ash Wednesday. The floats, costumes and food are a must-see event. For those who want the chance to view the floats up close, Mardi Gras World offers self-guided tours through their facility displaying both painted and unpainted floats. You’ll be able to learn the history of Mardi Gras and some standout moments from the local area too. Artists, designers and engineers can take inspiration from the year-round efforts of this community, building mobile murals that draws in guests from across the world. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment and its magic.
Arguably the most popular festival in all of Louisiana is Mardi Gras, which occurs yearly the day before Ash Wednesday. The floats, costumes and food are a must-see event. For those who want the chance to view the floats up close, Mardi Gras World offers self-guided tours through their facility displaying both painted and unpainted floats. You’ll be able to learn the history of Mardi Gras and some standout moments from the local area too. Artists, designers and engineers can take inspiration from the year-round efforts of this community, building mobile murals that draws in guests from across the world. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment and its magic.
Get up close and personal with the artistry that has helped make New Orleans known around the world.
For recommendations on places eat in the Big Easy, consider reading our other article A Culinary Tour of New Orleans.
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Once You Are Ready to Travel Again, Costco Travel Can Help
We invite you to take some time to browse around - Opens a dialog and dream of your next vacation, rental car or cruise, whether you’re booking for next month or toward the end of next year.
Aquariums and Museums Across the United States
Vacations can be a time to learn and broaden your horizons through engaging and fun ways that may not exist in your hometown. Whether your trip is a quick weekend getaway or a longer stay with a curated itinerary, many cities across the United States have aquariums and museums to captivate young minds and entertain the young at heart.
See creatures large and small in all manner of distinct colors and patterns.
Monterey, California
The city of Monterey contains the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Since its opening in 1984, guests come to view creatures as small as a shrimp to as large as a shark, with many guests seeing them for the first time in their lives. Perhaps its most popular offering is the live feedings of penguins and sea otters. This activity is offered multiple times a week, delighting guests of all ages. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is also the inspiration for the Marine Life Institute from the 2016 Disney/Pixar film “Finding Dory”.
Witness the brightly colored buildings along the boardwalk in Monterey, California.
Located half a mile away lies the Thomas Kinkade Gallery of Monterey. Open year-round, it showcases the art of the late painter Thomas Kinkade, the “Painter of Light” as he called himself. Available for both viewing and purchase, his artwork is display around the world and even on many cruise ships. Popular themes include rustic country landscapes, superheroes, military tributes, romance and even local areas in Monterey and the nearby city Carmel by the Sea. Visitors of all backgrounds will surely find inspiration when visiting this cozy venue.
Located half a mile away lies the Thomas Kinkade Gallery of Monterey. Open year-round, it showcases the art of the late painter Thomas Kinkade, the “Painter of Light” as he called himself. Available for both viewing and purchase, his artwork is display around the world and even on many cruise ships. Popular themes include rustic country landscapes, superheroes, military tributes, romance and even local areas in Monterey and the nearby city Carmel by the Sea. Visitors of all backgrounds will surely find inspiration when visiting this cozy venue.
Witness the brightly colored buildings along the boardwalk in Monterey, California.
The Lionfish is an eye-catching resident of the Shark Reef Aquarium.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Many are surprised to learn that Las Vegas has activities for all ages. One such option is the Shark Reef Aquarium in the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. This marine attraction is at the southern end of the strip where you can come face-to-face with jellyfish, sharks, octopi, and turtles. Must see viewing areas include a glass tunnel guests can walk through, surrounded by marine life and a replica shipwreck to view. Additional experiences for purchase include shark and stingray feedings. This is a great place to cool off on hot days.
Take a selfie in front of the lights and signs of modern and vintage Las Vegas.
Not all museums are located entirely inside a building. The Neon Museum displays signage used in Las Vegas as early as the 1930’s through today. During the day, visitors can view these pieces from a few feet away to appreciate the paintwork, engineering, and dedication that goes into these historic pieces of advertising. However, at night this place glows with the vintage feel of Las Vegas from the mid-twentieth century. Tours can sell out, so be sure to book this trip through history in advance. One of their newest tours highlights neon signs that have appeared in movies. For their premium experience, guests can add on a helicopter tour and guided land tour.
Not all museums are located entirely inside a building. The Neon Museum displays signage used in Las Vegas as early as the 1930’s through today. During the day, visitors can view these pieces from a few feet away to appreciate the paintwork, engineering, and dedication that goes into these historic pieces of advertising. However, at night this place glows with the vintage feel of Las Vegas from the mid-twentieth century. Tours can sell out, so be sure to book this trip through history in advance. One of their newest tours highlights neon signs that have appeared in movies. For their premium experience, guests can add on a helicopter tour and guided land tour.
Take a selfie in front of the lights and signs of modern and vintage Las Vegas.
For other sites to see, we recommend these 5 Things to Do in Las Vegas.
Stand in the presence of the world’s currently known largest fish.
Atlanta, Georgia
Not just known for its state’s delicious peaches, Atlanta is home to the largest aquarium in the United States. The Georgia Aquarium allows guests to marvel at such rare sights as the whale shark, the largest currently known fish in world. The aquarium hosts six viewable and is currently one of only five aquariums in the world to harbor these gentle giants. Not all creatures are fully submerged here, though. Visitors can view African penguins, horned puffins and the eye-catchingly colorful poison dart frogs. The facility offers diving with marine life, “Behind the Seas” tour, and even options to sleep in the aquarium overnight. These experiences should be booked in advance.
Be ready to learn about the beverages, taste samples, and admire art when you visit.
For a recap of its “refreshingly crisp” history and taste flavors from abroad, be sure to visit the World of Coca-Cola museum, located less than half a mile away from the Georgia Aquarium. See items from the company’s history dating from the 1800’s and sample exotic Coca-Cola flavors, some exclusively marketed and sold in other countries. The museum includes a 2-D and 3-D theater covering significant moments in the company’s history, a polar bear mascot meet and greet, and a chance for guests to see the vault where the secret recipe is stored. A visit here is sure to be a fun, thought-provoking experience.
For a recap of its “refreshingly crisp” history and taste flavors from abroad, be sure to visit the World of Coca-Cola museum, located less than half a mile away from the Georgia Aquarium. See items from the company’s history dating from the 1800’s and sample exotic Coca-Cola flavors, some exclusively marketed and sold in other countries. The museum includes a 2-D and 3-D theater covering significant moments in the company’s history, a polar bear mascot meet and greet, and a chance for guests to see the vault where the secret recipe is stored. A visit here is sure to be a fun, thought-provoking experience.
Be ready to learn about the beverages, taste samples, and admire art when you visit.
Having an extremely close family dynamic, African painted dogs rarely travel far from each other for long.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Located next to the Mississippi River the Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans is a popular conservation center that has three grounds for guests to visit. They include the Audubon Aquarium, neighboring Audubon Insectarium and, located across town, Audubon Zoo. The Audubon Aquarium presents guests with unexpected experiences such as penguins, sloths, and a VR adventure to explore the expansive ocean. Next door, Audubon Insectarium guests can walk through the Butterfly Garden, see various colonies of ants and visit multiple habitats throughout. The Audubon Zoo contains over a dozen themed areas, displaying rare animals such as the cute African painted dogs in the African Savana, the imposing Komodo dragons in the Reptile Encounter, and the clever-looking mandrills in the World of Primates exhibit plus much more.
Get up close and personal with the artistry that has helped make New Orleans known around the world.
Arguably the most popular festival in all of Louisiana is Mardi Gras, which occurs yearly the day before Ash Wednesday. The floats, costumes and food are a must-see event. For those who want the chance to view the floats up close, Mardi Gras World offers self-guided tours through their facility displaying both painted and unpainted floats. You’ll be able to learn the history of Mardi Gras and some standout moments from the local area too. Artists, designers and engineers can take inspiration from the year-round efforts of this community, building mobile murals that draws in guests from across the world. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment and its magic.
Arguably the most popular festival in all of Louisiana is Mardi Gras, which occurs yearly the day before Ash Wednesday. The floats, costumes and food are a must-see event. For those who want the chance to view the floats up close, Mardi Gras World offers self-guided tours through their facility displaying both painted and unpainted floats. You’ll be able to learn the history of Mardi Gras and some standout moments from the local area too. Artists, designers and engineers can take inspiration from the year-round efforts of this community, building mobile murals that draws in guests from across the world. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment and its magic.
Get up close and personal with the artistry that has helped make New Orleans known around the world.
For recommendations on places eat in the Big Easy, consider reading our other article A Culinary Tour of New Orleans.
Sign Up for Costco.com Emails
If you are interested in great deals Costco Travel has to offer, click here to sign up to receive emails. This will ensure that Travel and Costco.com values are sent directly to your inbox.
Once You Are Ready to Travel Again, Costco Travel Can Help
We invite you to take some time to browse around - Opens a dialog and dream of your next vacation, rental car or cruise, whether you’re booking for next month or toward the end of next year.
The above piece was written by Matthew Bateman, a Costco Travel employee and dinosaur enthusiast.
