News Summary
The South Carolina Aquarium is celebrating its 25th anniversary in June with membership discounts and engaging educational programs. New and renewing members can save $20 on any membership level using code SCAMEM25. The aquarium is also introducing children’s education programs aimed at fostering marine life knowledge. Additionally, they are expanding their educational facilities and planning for future projects, including a new restaurant. With over 500,000 annual visitors, the aquarium continues to play a vital role in conservation and community engagement.
Charleston, SC – South Carolina Aquarium Celebrates 25 Years with Discounts and New Initiatives
The South Carolina Aquarium is commemorating its 25th anniversary in June 2025 with a range of promotional activities designed to engage visitors and promote conservation education. Throughout the month, new and renewing members can enjoy a $20 discount on any membership level by using the code SCAMEM25. In addition, members are encouraged to take part in weekly prize draws advertised in a dedicated Facebook group every Friday during June.
To further promote education and fun, the aquarium is offering children’s education programs with engaging activities for a one-time fee of $50. The attractions are aimed at fostering a love for marine life and enhancing knowledge of environmental conservation. For those concerned about privacy, it is possible to safeguard phone numbers for a one-time cost of $20, which covers lifetime privacy service, and a location-based podcast subscription is available for $50.
History and Visitor Statistics
The South Carolina Aquarium opened its doors on May 19, 2000, attracting 3,500 visitors on its first day. Over the past 25 years, it has grown tremendously and now welcomes over 500,000 visitors annually. In total, it has hosted more than 11 million visitors since its founding. Admission prices have notably increased from $14 in 2000 to current rates ranging from $32.80 to $39.40 for adults.
A Commitment to Conservation
The aquarium features over 5,000 animals chosen from a variety of South Carolina habitats, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich biodiversity. Among them is Queso, a green sea turtle undergoing rehabilitation at the aquarium’s state-of-the-art sea turtle hospital. Since its opening, the hospital has treated and successfully released 451 turtles, demonstrating the facility’s commitment to marine animal rescue and conservation.
Economic Impact and Future Projects
The South Carolina Aquarium has significantly contributed to the Charleston economy, generating nearly $414 million annually. A major focus of the aquarium’s upcoming projects includes renovations outlined in a master plan aimed at enhancing exhibits. One major addition is the anticipated full-service restaurant set to open by 2026.
Furthermore, the aquarium is expanding its educational offerings with the construction of the Boeing Learning Lab. This new facility broke ground in July 2023 and is expected to be completed by December 2024. The Learning Lab will provide educational space and double the aquarium’s annual student capacity, allowing for greater outreach and environmental education in the community.
Community Engagement and Events
The aquarium has evolved from a simple exhibit space to a leading institution focusing on education, conservation, and community engagement over its 25-year history. Events like the popular “Aglow” holiday display attract numerous visitors each November and December, featuring stunning light displays and festive activities. Special event tickets for occasions like “Aquarium Aglow” are sold separately from general admission, but discounts are offered for early ticket purchases.
The aquarium’s ongoing growth has been supported by successful fundraising initiatives and strong community backing, allowing it to maintain its operations and expand its programs.
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Additional Resources
- CHS Today: Seas the Savings with $20 Off Aquarium Membership
- Wikipedia: South Carolina Aquarium
- Post and Courier: Charleston SC Aquarium Anniversary & Sea Turtles
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aquarium
- ABC News 4: South Carolina Aquarium Releases Ticket Info for Aquarium Aglow
- Google Search: South Carolina Aquarium
- Charleston Business: Behind the Scenes of South Carolina Aquarium
- Google News: South Carolina Aquarium
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