N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher to close for 30-month expansion
FORT FISHER, NC (WWAY) — The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher will close to the public beginning May 26 as construction gets underway on a major renovation and expansion project that will transform the facility into the largest aquarium in the state.
The 30-month project will feature a 400,000-gallon sand tiger shark habitat as its centerpiece, marking a significant upgrade for the coastal attraction. The aquarium is part of the North Carolina Aquariums system, a division of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
“This transformative project is beginning as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the North Carolina Aquariums,” said Pamela B. Cashwell. “It is a thrilling way to honor a legacy of conservation, exceptional visitor experience and dedicated animal care, while launching a bold vision for the future.”
In addition to the shark habitat, the expansion will include a 10,000-gallon Pacific coral exhibit, an interactive shark and ray touch pool featuring bottom-dwelling species, and a new state-of-the-art education center. Officials say the project has been more than a decade in the making and is funded through state support and contributions from the North Carolina Aquarium Society.
While the Fort Fisher location is closed, aquarium leaders are introducing “Discovery Bay,” a temporary attraction at Independence Mall in Wilmington. The space will feature live exhibits including seahorses, dart frogs, lionfish, and a carnivorous plant display, along with a gift shop operated by the Aquarium Society.
“We look forward to beginning construction, while continuing to engage our community in new ways,” said Joanna Zazzali. “Discovery Bay allows us to stay connected with our visitors, advance our conservation mission, and continue to inspire wonder, as we look toward our next chapter.”
Most animals will remain at the aquarium during construction, with animal care, facilities, and safety teams continuing operations on-site.
Visitors are encouraged to plan a final visit before the closure and share their experiences using the hashtag #PoseBeforeWeClose. Officials also recommend exploring other locations within the state system, including the aquariums at North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, and Jennette’s Pier during the renovation period.
