Under the Sea

When you think of Coney Island, a few things probably come to mind: the boardwalk, Nathan's hot dogs, the Cyclone. Ok, let's be honest, what we're really thinking is, "That's so far away." Sure, Coney Island is a bit farther away than most of us care to travel but, it is still part of NYC. If the beach and boardwalk games don't tempt you to make the long journey, how about the promise of a magical world under the sea?

The only aquarium in the city (and oldest in the U.S.), the New York Aquarium is located right on the Coney Island boardwalk, steps from the B, F, D, N & Q trains. Although it doesn't have the space and sheen of the National Aquarium in Baltimore, the NY Aquarium offers a cozy and manageable under-the-sea experience. (Also, having visited both aquariums, I have to say that you see all of the same things. The only difference is the NY Aquarium takes about half the time to complete.)

You'll arrive in the enclosed Conservation Hall to marvel at the array of colorful fishes, giant sea turtles and flattened sting rays. The Clown fish tank is a popular attraction, something to do with a little fish movie, Finding Nemo I think is its name.

The Aquarium also features plenty of outdoor attractions, including the Sea Lion show. Although, this may be a little to "family-cenric" for your likening. I would skip if you're traveling solo. Instead, head  to the underwater viewing area to watch the walruses and seals dive into their tanks like graceful ballerinas.

After visiting the Shark Tank and staring down a hungry Hammerhead shark (through the glass of course!), end your journey with the ocean's "outer-world creatures". Billed as "Alien Stringers", the Aquarium houses hundreds of jellyfish in black-light tanks, delivering on its title's promise. The alien-like jellyfish glow neon bright in the dark rooms. The tanks are a very cool visual centerpiece and will have you planning a way to incorporate them into your next apartment remodel.  

While the Aquarium is not exactly on the same level as the Bronx Zoo, it does inform, entertain and keep you cool. In the summer months, I can't really ask for much more. The New York Aquarium is the perfect place (and really the only place in the city) to explore life under the sea. So, take the journey to Coney Island and learn something you didn't know yesterday. Plus, afterward, you can treat yourself to a hot dog.