Ripley's Aquarium ticket prices vary by location and season

Ripley's Aquarium operates at multiple locations across North America, and each one sets its own prices. There is no single "Ripley's Aquarium" — the chain includes separate facilities in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Gatlinburg, Tennessee; Panama City Beach, Florida; and Toronto, Ontario. Ticket costs differ between locations, and most charge more during peak summer months and school holidays than during slower seasons.

General admission at most Ripley's locations ranges from roughly $25 to $35 per adult during regular seasons, with children and seniors typically paying $5 to $10 less. Summer and holiday rates can run $5 to $10 higher. Prices also shift based on whether you buy online in advance or at the gate on the day of your visit — advance online tickets are usually cheaper.

Key Takeaways

  • Ripley's Aquarium has four separate locations in the United States and Canada, each with different admission prices.
  • Adult tickets typically cost $25 to $35 during regular seasons, with children and seniors paying less.
  • Buying tickets online before your visit usually costs less than paying at the entrance.
  • Peak season (summer and school holidays) adds $5 to $10 to most ticket prices.
  • Multi-day passes and combination packages with other attractions may offer better value if you plan multiple visits.

Pricing at each Ripley's location

The Myrtle Beach location, the original and largest Ripley's Aquarium, charges around $29.99 for adults and $19.99 for children (ages 2–11) during regular season when you buy at the gate. Online advance purchase prices are typically $5 to $8 lower. Peak season rates (June through August and holiday weeks) run about $5 higher across all age groups.

The Gatlinburg aquarium, located in the Great Smoky Mountains area, has similar pricing: roughly $28 to $32 for adults at the gate, with online discounts available. The Panama City Beach location and Toronto location follow the same general pattern, though Toronto prices are quoted in Canadian dollars and tend to be slightly higher in absolute terms due to currency conversion.

All locations offer reduced rates for children under 2 (usually free or a small fee) and seniors (typically $5 to $10 off adult price). Military discounts and group rates are sometimes available — contact the specific location directly to confirm current offers, as these change seasonally.

How to save money on admission

Buying tickets online through the official Ripley's website or authorized ticket vendors before you visit is the most reliable way to save. Online prices are usually $5 to $8 cheaper per ticket than gate prices, and you avoid lines at the entrance. Most sites let you print your tickets at home or display them on your phone.

If you are visiting during a slower season (January through March, or September through early November), gate prices drop automatically — you do not need a special code or coupon. Some locations offer discounted "twilight" admission if you enter in the late afternoon, though this varies by location and season.

Combination packages that bundle Ripley's Aquarium with other local attractions (like Ripley's Believe It or Not museums, which operate separately) sometimes offer modest savings. Check whether your destination has these packages available before buying individual tickets.

What is included in your ticket

A general admission ticket gives you access to the main aquarium exhibits for one day. This includes walk-through tunnels with sharks and rays, touch pools where you can handle starfish and sea urchins, and viewing areas for jellyfish, seahorses, and tropical fish. Most locations also include interactive feeding demonstrations or educational talks throughout the day — check the schedule when you arrive.

Your ticket does not include parking (though most locations have free parking nearby), food, or merchandise. Some locations offer optional add-ons like private animal encounters or behind-the-scenes tours for an additional fee, but these are separate purchases.

Planning your visit around pricing

If you have flexibility on when you visit, going on a weekday during the school year (September through May, excluding holidays) will give you the lowest prices and the smallest crowds. Weekends and summer months are peak times, so expect both higher ticket prices and longer waits inside the aquarium.

Check the specific location's website before you go — many post their current admission prices and any temporary discounts. Prices can shift based on special events or renovations, so what you find online may differ from what you remember from a previous visit.

Parking and additional costs

Parking is free at all Ripley's Aquarium locations. Once inside, you will encounter gift shops and food vendors, but nothing is required as part of your visit. A meal at the on-site café or concession area typically costs $10 to $20 per person, similar to prices at other tourist attractions.

If you are visiting a location in a tourist area like Myrtle Beach or Gatlinburg, plan for parking and meals at nearby restaurants as well. These costs are separate from your aquarium ticket but are part of your overall day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do children under 2 get in free?

Most Ripley's locations allow children under 2 to enter free or for a very small fee (usually $2 to $5). Bring proof of age if asked. Check your specific location's policy on their website before you visit, as this can vary.

Can I get a refund if I buy tickets online?

Refund policies depend on where you purchase your tickets. Tickets bought directly from Ripley's official website typically allow cancellation up to 24 hours before your visit. Tickets bought through third-party vendors may have stricter policies — read the terms before you buy.

Are there discounts for military or groups?

Some Ripley's locations offer military discounts (usually 10 percent off) and group rates for parties of 15 or more. These are not always advertised online, so call the location directly or ask at the ticket counter to confirm what is currently available.

What time of year is cheapest to visit?

January through March and September through early November typically have the lowest prices and fewest crowds. Summer (June through August) and school holidays are peak season with the highest prices. Weekdays are always cheaper than weekends at the same location.

Can I use my ticket on a different day?

Most single-day tickets are valid only on the date printed. If you need to change your visit date, contact the location where you purchased your tickets — they may allow you to reschedule for a fee or exchange it for a different date depending on their policy.