The One Place In Kentucky Where You Can Touch Sharks And Stingrays
By Sarah McCosham|Published April 29, 2022
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
When you’re looking to shake things up from the tried-and-true Kentucky day trips, why not take a walk on the wild side? There’s a place in Northern Kentucky where visitors can enjoy epic animal encounters with some of the world’s wildest creatures, including opportunities to touch sharks and stingrays. Curious to learn more? Let’s take a day trip to Kentucky’s Newport Aquarium…
Located in Northern Kentucky, Newport Aquarium is a place that puts some of the world's wildest and most wondrous creatures within reach.
And while all 70+ exhibits here are all amazing and worth checking out, every parent knows that kids learn best by experiencing... in tactile, hands-on ways.
This is where the aquarium truly shines. There is so much to do and explore at Newport Aquarium; one of the most popular spots is Stingray Hideaway. This exhibit epitomizes what this Kentucky attraction does best, as it allows for up-close, hands-on (or, in this case, "two-finger touch") exploration. Kids can interact with two different species of stingrays; then, explore a series of underwater tunnels where the stingrays soar above and all around.
For another immersive experience, definitely check out Surrounded by Sharks, which, as its name suggests, includes opportunities to touch these aquatic kings!
Other must-visit spots at Newport Aquarium include Gator Alley, Ring of Fire (which includes the massive, shape-shifting, color-changing Giant Pacific Octopus!), and Penguin Palooza. But really, you’ll want to explore all the exhibits... so plan to spend several hours at this only-in-Kentucky attraction!
Newport Aquarium is one of those rare places where you can totally get lost -- in the very best way. And isn't that the very best kind of day trip adventure?
Have you visited Newport Aquarium before? Did you know there was a place in Kentucky where you could actually touch sharks and stingrays? How wild — and wonderful!
Looking for more family-friendly fun in the Bluegrass? This epic road trip leads to some of our favorite kid- and grown-up-approved places in Kentucky.
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