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 park rides and beach.

The aquarium occupies a waterfront building that has been there since 1896, though it moved to this Coney Island location in 1957. The building sits directly on the water, so you can see the Atlantic Ocean from parts of the facility. On clear days, you can see the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge from the outdoor areas.

Key Takeaways

  • The New York Aquarium is located at 602 Surf Avenue in Coney Island, Brooklyn, next to 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 ten minutes.
  • Parking is available on nearby streets and in lots around Coney Island, though it fills quickly on weekends and summer days.
  • The aquarium is open year-round, though hours change by season and it closes on some holidays.

Getting There by Subway

The fastest way to reach the aquarium from most of New York City is the subway. Take the D, F, N, or Q train to the Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue station. This is the final stop on all four lines. From the station, walk south toward the ocean—you will see the boardwalk and the aquarium building within about ten minutes.

The D train runs from the Bronx through Manhattan and takes about 45 minutes from Midtown. The F train comes from Queens and takes about 50 minutes from Midtown. The N and Q trains also serve the area. All four trains arrive at the same station, so you have options depending on where you are coming from.

Once you exit the station, follow the crowds toward the water. The aquarium entrance is on Surf Avenue, facing the boardwalk. There are signs posted around the station area pointing toward the aquarium.

Driving and Parking

If you drive, parking is available on the streets around Coney Island and in several parking lots near the aquarium. Street parking is free but limited and fills quickly, especially on weekends and during summer. Metered spots are also available along Surf Avenue and nearby streets.

Several paid parking lots operate in the area. The Coney Island Parking Lot is the closest option and sits just a few blocks from the aquarium entrance. Rates vary by season and day of the week—expect to pay more on weekends and during summer months. Parking can be difficult to find during peak times, so arriving early in the day or on a weekday is easier.

If you use a GPS or mapping app, enter the address 602 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11224. The app will direct you to nearby parking options and show you the walking route to the entrance.

Hours and Seasonal Changes

The aquarium is open year-round, but hours change depending on the season. During summer months (roughly June through August), it typically opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m. During 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.

The aquarium closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Hours may also change for special events or weather. Before you visit, check the official New York Aquarium website or call ahead to confirm the hours for your specific date.

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, and visiting in the fall or winter means shorter lines and easier parking. Summer and holiday weeks draw large crowds, especially on afternoons and weekends.

What to Bring and What to Know

Bring comfortable walking shoes—the aquarium is spread across multiple levels and outdoor areas. The boardwalk outside can be windy, especially in fall and winter, so a jacket is useful year-round. Sunscreen and a hat are important in summer.

The aquarium allows outside food and drinks, so you can bring a picnic. There is also a café inside that sells snacks and meals. Water fountains are located throughout the building. Restrooms are available on multiple levels.

The building has elevators and ramps, so it is accessible for visitors using wheelchairs or walkers. Stroller rentals are available if you are visiting with young children. The outdoor areas can be uneven, so plan accordingly.

Getting Around Coney Island Once You Arrive

The aquarium sits in the middle of Coney Island, so you can easily walk to other attractions. The boardwalk runs along the water and connects to Luna Park amusement park, the Cyclone roller coaster, and the beach. Most of these are within a five to fifteen-minute walk.

The area has restaurants, shops, and arcades along the boardwalk and on nearby streets. Bathrooms and changing areas are available at the beach if you plan to swim. The neighborhood is busy during summer but quieter in fall and winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the subway directly to the aquarium entrance?

The subway station is about a ten-minute walk from the aquarium entrance. There is no station directly inside the building, but the walk is straightforward and mostly flat, heading south from the Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue station toward the ocean and boardwalk.

Is there wheelchair accessible parking near the aquarium?

Yes. Accessible parking spaces are available on Surf Avenue near the entrance and in nearby lots. The aquarium building itself has elevators and ramps throughout. Call ahead at the aquarium's main number to ask about the closest accessible parking for your visit.

What is the best time of day to visit if I want to avoid crowds?

Weekday mornings, especially on school days, are the least crowded. Visiting on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday morning in fall or winter will mean shorter lines and easier parking. Summer weekends and holiday weeks are the busiest times.

Can I bring my own food into the aquarium?

Yes, outside food and drinks are allowed. Many visitors bring picnics, especially on nice weather days. The aquarium also has a café inside if you prefer to purchase food there.

How long does it take to see the whole aquarium?

Most visitors spend two to three hours inside. You can move through faster if you skip the outdoor areas, or spend more time if you watch the feeding demonstrations and read all the exhibits. Plan for at least two hours to see the main attractions.