The Flint RiverQuarium is one of the most iconic parts of Albany, GA. The sprawling building rests on the banks of the Flint River downtown and rises high into the sky with its unique design. But inside? That’s where the real adventure takes place.
Born in the wake of tragic flooding in 1994, the Flint RiverQuarium is a non-profit organization established to drive historic preservation and economic growth for the city. The building itself is an anchor attraction of Downtown Albany.
What does it do?
According to the RiverQuarium, the place is designed to interpret the geologic, hydrologic, ecologic and climactic conditions of the Flint River Basin. In addition, the attraction’s shared goal is to impact future generations by educating residents, visitors, and children on the critical importance of natural resources.
It also provides an interactive experience that can jump-start children’s curiosity about science and conservation.
The mission statement of the Flint RiverQuarium is this: To promote education and awareness of water and its value.
What’s it like inside?
Similar to the outside, the inside of the RiverQuarium is a sprawling place of discovery and education. Those taking a tour will find an easy route along the winding path exploring different parts of the Flint River and the creatures that inhabit it.
Visitors of all ages can explore, learn, touch, and feel the intricacies of what makes the Flint River unique. Exploration stations include individual aquariums and terrariums filled with locally-based creatures large and small.
Being able to touch, and not just see exhibits can be meaningful in education, and the RiverQuarium provides many places to do that. Visitors can experience supervised “touch-friendly” aquariums designed to introduce the feel of aquatic life, let water gush over rocks and sand in an erosion simulation, and play with an interactive educational video wall.
Popular exhibits
Some parts of the RiverQuarium get more attention than others, and it’s not hard to see why. The organization’s built-in blue hole with prehistoric fish swimming around is a large sight to take in.
Many flock to see the albino alligator swimming and crawling through its habitat next door. Others, and especially children choose to climb and crawl through the little tunnels and caves that open up to deliver a unique view of water creatures up close.
The built-in aviary on site is a unique open-air part of the RiverQuarium that allows visitors to get up-close with a variety of birds, each with their own unique story.
This place is big, can I have an event there?
The RiverQuarium is available for hosting parties, events, and receptions of all kinds. Even weddings. The facility’s Skywater room offers lots of naturally-lit space and plenty of room for guests, tables, and catering.
For information about facility rental availability, prices, and policies contact Vicki Churchman at (229) 639-2650 ext. 233 or send an email to vchurchman@flintriverquarium.com.
When can I visit?
The Flint RiverQuarium is open Tuesday-Sunday and closed on Mondays. Admission tickets are available to individuals, families, and groups. Military discounts are available and school groups are welcome to schedule visits.
Planning a trip? Get directions, operating hours, and other important information at the Flint RiverQuarium business page at 229 Life.
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