Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration

‘Tis the season for giving, and Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration makes it easy and fun with an array of unique gifts that do double duty. Giving a gift from the aquarium is like giving two gifts in one – proceeds from these presents go toward the aquarium’s animals, educational programs, events, research and conservation efforts.

Consider these gift options, sure to please everyone on your list:


For the adventurous individual …an animal encounter program
Pet a penguin, wade waist-deep with a beluga whale or meet one up close. The aquarium’s animal encounter programs provide the experience of a lifetime and long-lasting memories.

Cost: Beluga Encounter (take place May-October) – $159 non-members, $149 members; Whales Up Close (seasonal) – $49 plus aquarium admission; Penguin Encounter (year-round) – $79 non-members, $70 members. For more information on programs and guidelines, or to make a reservation for someone, visit mysticaquarium.org or call (860) 572-5955, ext. 520.

For frequent visitors and families…an aquarium membership
Give a gift that keeps giving all year. Members receive free admission, invitations to special members-only events and discounts on guest admission, gift shop items, special exhibits and events, aquarium programs and camps, cafe purchases and more. Choose from several membership levels designed to fit just about everyone's needs.

Cost: Family or grandparents $169, couple $119, individual $60. For additional level rates or more information, visit mysticaquarium.org or call (860) 572-5955, ext. 233.

For the nurturing type or fan of a particular animal…the Animal Parent program
Recipients will be thrilled to become the proud parent of a penguin, beluga, sea lion or other animal available for adoptive support. These donations are used to buy toys, a nutritious fish meal or fulfill one of many other animal needs toward their continued care and enrichment.

Cost: Animal Parent kits start at $50. Call 860.572.5955, ext. 160 for more information on the five levels of adoption.

For the food connoisseur…a gourmet gift basket from Ocean Blue Catering
For the first time this holiday season, Ocean Blue Catering, the aquarium’s exclusive, award-winning caterer has put together beautiful baskets of treats, including wine, cheese, jams, crackers and more, available from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day.

Cost: Small basket – $50, large basket – $75. Call (860) 572-5955, ext. 336 to place an order.

For the busy hostess…a holiday feast from Ocean Blue Catering
This year, Ocean Blue does your holiday cooking, offering delicious prepared turkeys and hams with all the trimmings.

Cost: $80 for six-person meal or $150 for a 12-person meal. Call (860) 572-5955, ext. 336 to place an order.

For the person who has everything…a unique item from the gift shop
The Aquarium Store features a variety of gifts for all ages, from plush toys and apparel to books, ornaments (year-round), home accents, eco-conscious products, jewelry and more. New this year are blown-glass tumblers and fish (both $49.99), necklaces ($49.99) and vases ($399.99) created by acclaimed artist Jeffrey P’an, owner of Prescient Studios in Mystic.

More great gift ideas: cap and fleece sets for only $35, tie-dyed Save Our Planet beluga tees ($24.99), engraved fish wine goblets ($7.99 each) and plush animals that transform into pillows ($24.99). The store also offers special value promotions in adult and youth apparel, mugs and accessories. As a holiday special, the store is offering the Mystic Aquarium weatherproof logo tote bag and fleece blanket as a set for $30 (normally $60).

For the out-of-town guest...aquarium tickets
Purchase tickets at the aquarium gates or online.

Still not sure what to get? Get a gift certificate, which can be used toward Aquarium Store purchases, membership, camps or programs like our Beluga and Penguin Encounters. Call (860) 572-5955, ext. 221 to purchase.