About SEA LIFE New Jersey Aquarium
SEA LIFE New Jersey Aquarium is one of the newest additions to the SEA LIFE family, located within the spectacular American Dream entertainment and shopping complex in East Rutherford. Just minutes from New York City, this state-of-the-art aquarium brings the magic of the ocean to the tri-state area with stunning displays, interactive experiences, and thousands of fascinating sea creatures.
The aquarium offers an immersive journey through diverse underwater environments, from tropical coral reefs to the mysterious depths of the ocean. Visitors can expect to encounter sharks, rays, seahorses, jellyfish, and countless species of colorful fish. The modern facility features cutting-edge displays designed to educate and inspire visitors about marine life and the importance of ocean conservation.
What makes SEA LIFE New Jersey particularly special is its location within American Dream, one of the largest entertainment complexes in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors can combine their aquarium experience with other world-class attractions including Nickelodeon Universe, DreamWorks Water Park, and LEGOLAND Discovery Center for an unforgettable day of entertainment.
SEA LIFE New Jersey is just 20 minutes from Manhattan, making it a perfect day trip destination for families visiting New York City!
SEA LIFE New Jersey Ticket Prices
Understanding your ticket options helps you get the best value for your visit. Online booking is recommended for guaranteed entry and savings.
Standard Admission
- Adult Tickets (13+ years): From $29 online (gate price $35-39)
- Child Tickets (3-12 years): From $24 online
- Children under 3: Free admission
Combo Tickets
American Dream offers combo packages with other attractions:
- SEA LIFE + LEGOLAND: Save up to 30% on combined admission
- American Dream Multi-Attraction Pass: Access multiple attractions at significant savings
Exhibits & Attractions
Ocean Tunnel
Walk through an incredible underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and tropical fish. The curved glass walls provide panoramic views of marine life swimming all around you – a truly immersive experience.
Interactive Touch Pools
Get hands-on with marine life at the touch pool experiences. Under staff guidance, touch sea stars, anemones, and other fascinating creatures.
Shark Encounter
Come face-to-face with various shark species and learn about these magnificent predators through educational displays and daily presentations.
Tropical Ocean Display
Discover the vibrant colors of coral reef environments with stunning displays of tropical fish from around the world.
Jellyfish Discovery
Experience the mesmerizing beauty of jellyfish in specially designed illuminated tanks that showcase their graceful movements.
Opening Hours
- Monday - Thursday: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Friday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Hours may vary during holidays and peak seasons. Check current hours before visiting.
Location & Getting There
Address
SEA LIFE New Jersey
American Dream
1 American Dream Way
East Rutherford, NJ 07073
From New York City
American Dream is approximately 20-30 minutes from Midtown Manhattan via the Lincoln Tunnel. NJ Transit buses also serve the complex directly.
Parking
American Dream offers extensive parking facilities with both surface lots and parking garages. Parking validation may be available with attraction tickets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours at SEA LIFE New Jersey, allowing time to explore all exhibits and enjoy interactive experiences.
Yes! American Dream is home to multiple attractions including Nickelodeon Universe, DreamWorks Water Park, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, and extensive shopping and dining.
Yes, NJ Transit buses serve American Dream with direct routes from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan.
Experience SEA LIFE New Jersey!
Book your tickets online and discover an underwater world at American Dream!
Get Your Tickets Now