The New York Aquarium is in Coney Island, Brooklyn

The New York Aquarium sits at Surf Avenue and West 8th Street in Coney Island, Brooklyn. The full address is 602 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11224. It is the only major aquarium in New York City and sits right next to the historic Coney Island boardwalk, about a ten-minute walk from the amusement rides and beach.

The building itself is hard to miss — it is a large modern structure with a curved roof that faces the ocean. You can see it from the boardwalk, and the entrance is directly on Surf Avenue. The aquarium occupies about 6.5 acres of land along the water, so there is plenty of space for both indoor exhibits and outdoor pools.

Key Takeaways

  • The New York Aquarium is located at 602 Surf Avenue in Coney Island, Brooklyn, right on the boardwalk.
  • You can reach it by subway using the D, F, N, or Q train to the Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue station, then walking about five to ten minutes.
  • Parking is available on nearby streets and in a lot adjacent to the aquarium, though street parking fills up quickly on weekends and summer days.
  • The aquarium is open year-round, though hours vary by season and day of the week.

Getting There by Subway

The subway is the most reliable way to reach the aquarium from anywhere in New York City. Take the D, F, N, or Q train to the Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue station. When you exit the station, follow the signs toward the boardwalk and Surf Avenue. The walk from the station to the aquarium entrance takes about five to ten minutes depending on which exit you use.

The D train runs from the Bronx through Manhattan and Brooklyn, so it is a direct route from many neighborhoods. The F and Q trains also serve the area. Check the MTA website or your phone's transit app before you go, because weekend service sometimes changes and construction occasionally affects routes.

Parking and Driving Directions

If you drive, the aquarium is accessible from the Prospect Expressway and the Belt Parkway. Street parking is available on Surf Avenue and the surrounding blocks, but it fills up quickly on weekends and during summer months. A parking lot sits directly adjacent to the aquarium building, though it charges a fee and can reach capacity on busy days.

From Manhattan, take the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (BQE) south, then follow signs toward Coney Island. From other parts of Brooklyn or Queens, the Belt Parkway provides direct access. GPS and mapping apps will route you to the address 602 Surf Avenue. Arrive early if you are visiting on a weekend or holiday, because parking becomes scarce by mid-morning.

What to Expect When You Arrive

The main entrance faces Surf Avenue. You will see ticket windows, a gift shop, and information desks inside the lobby. The building is climate-controlled, so you can move between indoor exhibits and outdoor pools depending on the weather. Restrooms, a café, and benches are scattered throughout the facility.

The outdoor areas include sea lion pools, a penguin habitat, and a touch pool where you can handle starfish and other creatures. The indoor exhibits feature jellyfish, seahorses, sharks, and fish from around the world. The layout is designed so you can spend anywhere from two to four hours depending on how long you linger at each exhibit.

Hours and Seasonal Changes

The aquarium is open year-round, but hours shift with the seasons. During summer (roughly June through August), it typically opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m. on weekdays and 7 p.m. on weekends. In fall and spring, hours are usually 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Winter hours are shorter, often 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.

Hours vary by day of the week and change for holidays, so check the official New York Aquarium website or call ahead before you visit. The aquarium occasionally closes for special events or maintenance, so confirming your visit in advance saves a wasted trip.

Nearby Attractions and Amenities

Coney Island offers plenty to do beyond the aquarium. The boardwalk runs for miles along the beach and includes the historic Luna Park amusement park, the Cyclone roller coaster, and the Coney Island Museum. Restaurants and food stands line the boardwalk, from casual hot dog stands to sit-down seafood restaurants.

The beach itself is free and open to the public during summer months. Brighton Beach, a neighborhood just east of Coney Island, has a different character — quieter, with a large Russian-speaking community and its own boardwalk. If you are planning a full day, you can combine the aquarium with a beach visit or a ride on the Cyclone.

Accessibility and Facilities

The aquarium is wheelchair accessible. Elevators connect all floors, and accessible restrooms are located throughout the building. Parking spaces reserved for people with disabilities are available in the adjacent lot and on nearby streets. Service animals are permitted inside the building.

The facility has a coat check, lockers for rent, and a family restroom for parents with young children. Strollers are permitted, though crowded days can make navigation difficult. If you have specific accessibility needs, contact the aquarium directly before your visit to confirm what accommodations are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food into the aquarium?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the building. The aquarium has a café that serves sandwiches, snacks, and drinks at typical venue prices. You can eat on the outdoor boardwalk area before or after your visit.

Is there a best time to visit to avoid crowds?

Weekday visits during school hours are quieter than weekends. Early morning, right when the aquarium opens, is also less crowded. Summer weekends and holidays are the busiest times. Winter weekdays are the slowest period overall.

How long does it take to see everything?

Most people spend two to three hours at the aquarium. If you move quickly, you can see the main exhibits in about ninety minutes. If you stop at every tank and watch the sea lion shows, plan for four hours or more.

What is the closest subway station?

The Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue station is the closest, served by the D, F, N, and Q trains. It is about a five to ten-minute walk to the aquarium entrance depending on which exit you use.

Is the aquarium open in winter?

Yes, the aquarium is open year-round. Winter hours are shorter than summer hours, typically 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. Some outdoor exhibits may have reduced hours or be closed during very cold weather.