New York Aquarium Education Department

Nestled within the New York Aquarium at Coney Island, the Education Department offers a deeper layer of learning beyond general exhibits — structured programs, touch pool demonstrations, and naturalist-led experiences that transform a standard aquarium visit into an interactive science class.

Operating under the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), the same organization behind the Bronx Zoo and Central Park Zoo, the Education Department runs programs for both school groups and the general public. Walk-in visitors can often participate in scheduled demonstrations at the touch pool, where naturalists introduce families to sea stars, horseshoe crabs, and other tidal zone creatures that children can carefully handle under guidance.

The department also organizes special family programs around seasonal themes — winter shark biology sessions, summer beach ecology walks along the Coney Island shoreline, and hands-on dissection labs for older students. These programs typically require advance registration and carry a modest additional fee beyond general aquarium admission.

For school groups, the Education Department is one of New York City's premier field trip destinations, offering curriculum-aligned programs tied to New York State science standards. Teachers can book live presentations, behind-the-scenes tours, and educator-led gallery walks months in advance.

Families visiting casually should check the daily program schedule posted at the aquarium entrance — many free demonstrations run twice daily at no extra charge. Pairing an education program with the Ocean Wonders: Sharks! exhibit (also within the aquarium) creates a comprehensive ocean-themed day.

The aquarium sits directly on the Coney Island boardwalk, making it easy to extend the day with a walk, Nathan's Famous hot dogs, or a stroll on the beach.