NC aquariums to offer reduced admission for low-income families

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Beginning November 1, admission fees at North Carolina aquariums will be reduced for visitors presenting an Electronic Benefits Transfer, or EBT, card along with a valid form of ID.

Under the new program, adult admission will be $3 and $2 for children ages 3-12. Up to four people can be admitted with each EBT card presented. There is no charge for kids under 2.

The project is a joint initiative between the North Carolina departments of Natural and Cultural Resources and Health and Human Services, and was inspired by the national Museums for All program, which aims to expand access to museums and other cultural institutions by removing financial barriers to admission.

“We want everyone to have access to the outstanding, fun and educational resources available at our North Carolina aquariums,” says N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Susi H. Hamilton, “but we recognize the admission fees can sometimes pose a barrier to low-income families. We hope this new program will more North Carolina families the opportunity to visit us and learn more about the natural world.”

The new reduced admission prices will be available November 1 at the North Carolina aquariums at Roanoke Island, Pine Knoll Shores and Fort Fisher, and will be available year-round.