national aquarium virtual tour

National Aquarium - Virtual Tour

Sponsored by Hopkins Alumni

Thursday, June 3, 2021, 6:30pm ET

Join us for a fisheye view, seeing the National Aquarium  in a whole new way, right from the comfort of your couch! We will enjoy a virtual guided through a portion of the aquarium catching sight of a variety of fish , sharks , and rays from the Atlantic Ocean all the way to tropical Indo-Pacific reefs! We will have an expert guide leading us through and opportunities to ask live questions. During the tour, we will learn all about how the staff care for the animals at the Aquarium and outside of their doors on our ocean planet. Keep an eye out for our next event with the National Aquarium , where kids will have the opportunity to enjoy a virtual Animal Encounter  E xperience ! The perspectives and opinions expressed by the speaker(s) during this program are those of the speaker(s) and not, necessarily, those of Johns Hopkins University and the scheduling of any speaker at an alumni event or program does not constitute the University’s endorsement of the speaker’s perspectives and opinions.

 Event Date Thursday, June 3, 2021 Start Time: 6:30pm

 Contact Office of Alumni Relations (410) 516-0808 [email protected]

Beneath the Surface: National Aquarium Washington DC Virtual Tour

Ever wondered what it would be like to explore the depths of the ocean without leaving your home? Look no further than the National Aquarium in Washington, DC. 

Offering a virtual tour experience that transports you into the mesmerizing world of marine life, this renowned institution provides an unparalleled opportunity for adventure and discovery. 

With stunning exhibits, interactive features, and expert insights, the National Aquarium’s virtual tour promises an immersive journey filled with wonder and education. 

Whether you’re a marine enthusiast, a curious learner, or simply seeking a unique experience, this virtual tour invites you to dive into the beauty and diversity of our ocean ecosystems. 

Join us as we embark on an unforgettable exploration of the National Aquarium in Washington, DC, right from the comfort of your own home. Stay focused. 

What to Expect on A National Aquarium Washington DC Virtual Tour

A virtual tour of the National Aquarium in Washington, DC, promises an immersive and educational experience, even from the comfort of your own home. Here’s what you might expect:

Virtual Guides or Hosts

Like in-person tours, virtual tours often have knowledgeable guides or hosts who will lead you through the aquarium, providing insights, interesting facts, and answering any questions you may have along the way.

Interactive Exhibits

Through high-quality video footage and interactive features, you’ll get to explore the various exhibits the aquarium has to offer. 

This might include exhibits showcasing diverse aquatic ecosystems, such as coral reefs, tropical rainforests, and coastal habitats.

Educational Content

Expect to learn about the marine life housed in the aquarium, including information about their habitats, behaviors, and conservation status. 

Virtual tours often include educational content tailored to different age groups, making it a great learning opportunity for both kids and adults.

Behind-the-Scenes Access

Some virtual tours may offer exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses into areas of the aquarium that are not typically accessible to the public. This could include visits to animal care facilities, research labs, or conservation initiatives.

Live Feeds and Webcams

Depending on the setup of the virtual tour, you may have access to live feeds or webcams that allow you to observe animals in real-time. 

This can be particularly exciting as it offers a chance to see marine life behaving naturally in their habitats.

Q&A Sessions

Many virtual tours include interactive elements such as live Q&A sessions with aquarium staff or experts. This provides an opportunity to delve deeper into specific topics or ask questions about the animals and exhibits you’ve seen.

Accessibility

Virtual tours offer accessibility features that may not be available during in-person visits, such as closed captioning, audio descriptions, and alternative formats for content consumption.

This ensures that the experience is inclusive and enjoyable for all participants.

Overall, a virtual tour of the National Aquarium in Washington, DC, promises an engaging and informative experience that allows you to explore the wonders of the ocean from wherever you are.

How to Make A Plan for A National Aquarium Washington DC Virtual Tour

Planning a virtual tour of the National Aquarium in Washington, DC, can turn into a captivating and educational experience with a well-thought-out plan. 

Here’s how you can create a comprehensive plan to make the most of your virtual visit:

Research and Familiarize Yourself with the Aquarium

Before embarking on your virtual tour, take some time to research the National Aquarium in Washington, DC. Familiarize yourself with its exhibits, featured marine life, and any special events or programs it offers. 

Understanding what the aquarium has to offer will help you tailor your virtual tour experience to your interests.

Choose the Right Platform or Website

Selecting the appropriate platform or website for your virtual tour is crucial. Check if the National Aquarium offers its own virtual tour experience on its website or if it collaborates with any other online platforms. 

Ensure that the chosen platform provides high-quality visuals, interactive features, and access to educational content.

Check Tour Schedule and Availability

Virtual tours may be offered at specific times or on certain days, so check the tour schedule and availability in advance. 

Consider factors such as time zone differences and your own schedule when selecting a tour time that works best for you. If live tours are available, aim to join one to fully engage with the experience.

Gather Necessary Equipment

To enhance your virtual tour experience, gather any necessary equipment beforehand. 

This may include a reliable internet connection, a computer or tablet with a large screen for better viewing, and headphones for improved audio quality. 

Additionally, have a notebook and pen handy to jot down interesting facts or observations during the tour.

Create an Itinerary or Checklist

Make a list of specific exhibits or areas within the National Aquarium that you’d like to explore during your virtual tour. 

Prioritize the exhibits based on your interests and allocate time accordingly. Consider including any special features or behind-the-scenes glimpses that may be offered during the tour.

Engage with the Experience

During the virtual tour, actively engage with the content by asking questions, participating in interactive elements, and taking advantage of any live feeds or webcams available. 

Stay curious and open-minded, and don’t hesitate to interact with tour guides or fellow participants to make the experience more enriching.

By following these steps and creating a thoughtful plan, you can ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable virtual tour of the National Aquarium in Washington, DC, right from the comfort of your own home.

Tips to Make A Successful National Aquarium Washington DC Virtual Tour

Embarking on a virtual tour of the National Aquarium in Washington, DC, offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the ocean and its inhabitants from anywhere in the world. 

To ensure a successful and enriching experience, consider the following tips:

Prepare Your Environment

Set the stage for an immersive virtual tour by creating a comfortable and distraction-free environment. Choose a quiet space where you can focus solely on the tour without interruptions. 

Dim the lights to enhance the visual experience and minimize glare on your screen. Additionally, inform household members about your tour schedule to avoid any disturbances.

Test Your Technology

Prior to the tour, test your internet connection, audio, and video settings to ensure smooth streaming and optimal audiovisual quality. 

If possible, use a device with a large screen, such as a computer or tablet, to fully appreciate the details of the aquarium exhibits. Consider using headphones for better sound quality and to minimize external noise interference.

Engage with Interactive Elements

Take advantage of any interactive features or activities offered during the virtual tour. Participate in live Q&A sessions with tour guides or aquarium staff to gain deeper insights into marine life and conservation efforts. 

Explore virtual exhibits using interactive maps, videos, and 360-degree views to immerse yourself in the underwater world.

Stay Curious and Ask Questions

Approach the virtual tour with a curious mindset and don’t hesitate to ask questions about the exhibits or marine animals you encounter. 

Whether you’re curious about a specific species, their habitats, or conservation challenges, engaging with tour guides or fellow participants can enrich your learning experience and foster meaningful discussions.

Take Breaks and Stay Hydrated

Virtual tours can be mentally engaging, so remember to take breaks as needed to rest your eyes and stretch your muscles. Stay hydrated by keeping a bottle of water nearby and taking sips throughout the tour. 

Taking short breaks allows you to maintain focus and fully enjoy the tour without feeling fatigued.

Document Your Experience

Capture memorable moments during the virtual tour by taking screenshots or photos of your favorite exhibits or marine animals. 

Keep a digital journal or notepad to jot down interesting facts, observations, or questions that arise during the tour. Documenting your experience allows you to reflect on what you’ve learned and share highlights with others.

Follow Up with Additional Resources

After the virtual tour, continue your exploration of marine life and conservation topics by delving into additional resources such as books, documentaries, or online articles. 

Follow the National Aquarium’s social media channels or website for updates on upcoming events, educational programs, and conservation initiatives.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your virtual tour of the National Aquarium in Washington, DC, and gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and importance of our ocean ecosystems.

Best Time Go on A National Aquarium Washington DC Virtual Tour

Choosing the best time to go on a virtual tour of the National Aquarium in Washington, DC, largely depends on personal preferences and scheduling considerations. 

However, there are a few factors to consider when selecting the optimal time for your virtual visit:

• Tour Availability: Check the aquarium’s website or virtual tour platform for the schedule of available tours. Some platforms may offer tours at specific times or on certain days of the week.
• Personal Schedule: Select a time that aligns with your personal schedule and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the virtual tour without distractions. Consider factors such as work commitments, family responsibilities, and time zone differences.
• Tour Length: Take into account the duration of the virtual tour when choosing the best time to participate. Ensure that you have enough time available to complete the tour without feeling rushed.
• Peak Hours: Consider avoiding peak hours, if possible, to minimize potential congestion or technical issues with the virtual tour platform. Opting for off-peak times may offer a more seamless and enjoyable experience.
• Live Events or Special Features: If the virtual tour includes live events, guest speakers, or interactive activities, check the schedule for these special features and plan your visit accordingly to fully engage with them.

Ultimately, the best time to go on a virtual tour of the National Aquarium in Washington, DC, is when you can dedicate your full attention to the experience and make the most of the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of marine life.

Wrapping Up

Jumping on a virtual tour of the National Aquarium in Washington, DC, offers an exciting opportunity to explore the wonders of the ocean from the comfort of your own home. 

Through immersive exhibits, interactive features, and engaging educational content, participants can gain valuable insights into marine life and conservation efforts. 

By following the tips outlined in this guide and carefully planning your virtual visit, you can ensure a successful and enriching experience. 

Whether you’re a marine enthusiast, a curious learner, or simply seeking a unique adventure, a virtual tour of the National Aquarium provides a window into the beauty and importance of our underwater world. 

So, dive in, explore, and discover the captivating marine ecosystems that await you at the National Aquarium in Washington, DC. Best of luck. 

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15 Fascinating Aquarium Virtual Field Trips

Jellies, otters, and more!

Did you know that you can take aquarium virtual field trips … across the globe … for free? Depending on the site, you may also access supplemental programs and resources designed for students, teachers, and families. Whether you’re trying to supplement your lesson plans, or just give kids something interesting to look at, these aquarium virtual tours have a lot to offer.

Seattle Aquarium

For a complete field trip experience, head over to Seattle Aquarium’s YouTube channel. There, you’ll find a Dive Buddy in full scuba gear guiding the learning experience from underwater. It doesn’t get more immersive than that! And kids can learn all about the animals and food web found in the Puget Sound waters.

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Maritime Aquarium

The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, Connecticut has put some of their most popular programs online for kids to enjoy from anywhere! With specific content based on grade level—from Kindergarten through 12th Grade—this is a fantastic resource, especially for distance learning. Unlike some of the virtual aquariums on this list, this one requires advance reservations, so be sure to plan ahead!

Georgia Aquarium

You’ll be absolutely captivated by the Georgia Aquarium which is based in Atlanta. This vibrant virtual aquarium offers a variety of live views including the Indo-Pacific Barrier Reef Webcam, Ocean Voyager Webcam, Jelly Webcam, and more!

Monterey Bay Aquarium

You might not live in California, but you can still enjoy much of what the Monterey Bay Aquarium has to offer. There are many views to enjoy including the Open Sea Cam, Monterey Bay Cam, and even a Shark Cam. And, be sure to check out the virtual aquarium’s narrated feedings (check the website for details)!

National Aquarium

Take a virtual field trip over to the nation’s capital for this adventure! Located in Washington, D.C., you can navigate the National Aquarium online through a View Map and explore scenes such as Alligators, Sea Turtles, Channel Islands, American Samoa, and even the Amazon River!

Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago goes above and beyond to give kids a behind-the-scenes look at aquatic life. This YouTube channel is filled with fun lessons in biology (don’t miss the beluga sonogram!), environmental facts, and adorable videos. This is a fantastic resource for learning more about animals, their habitats, and our beautiful planet.

South Carolina Aquarium

Looking for some STEM-based activities to enhance learning (and beat boredom)? The award-winning education team at the South Carolina Aquarium offers virtual visits and nature challenges that are fun for the whole family! Become a digital explorer. Discover all of the complex habitats South Carolina has to offer and the fascinating animals that call it home.

Ripley’s Aquariums

Explore Ripley’s Aquariums at home and learn all about the amazing animals of our world waters! Staff educators will guide you through live feedings, educational encounters, storytime, and much more. The site offers downloadable animal activities, crafts, and educational materials for Pre-K, Elementary, and Middle School students.

Aquarium of the Pacific Online Academy

For more of a structured learning experience, head over to the Aquarium of the Pacific. They’ve created an Online Academy that offers educational activities through on-demand videos and scheduled interactive live programs with their educators. Plus, their live online courses for K-12 kids and printable certificates is a great way to engage and reward students.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Catch a glimpse of the unique (and luxurious) offerings at the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Choose from three different views: The Main Tank, Underwater Zoo, and Shark Week Exhibit. It’s not as extensive as some of the other virtual aquariums on this list. But, it’s a great way to see something new for a few minutes!

New England Aquarium

Boston’s New England Aquarium has created a virtual portal for sharing live presentations, new videos, and even activities you can try from home! Interested in checking out the daily presentations? The aquarium posts them on their Facebook page every day at 11 a.m. Eastern Time.

OdySea Aquarium

Located in Scottsdale, Arizona, the OdySea Aquarium has developed several online portals to promote learning. Kids will be fascinated by the Shark Live Cam and sink into the Virtual OdySea Classroom where they can learn more about penguins, jellies, and more!

Texas State Aquarium

They say that everything’s bigger in Texas, which would explain why this aquarium’s virtual tours section is so extensive! You won’t grow bored with all of the views they offer. Find a tunnel view of the Caribbean Sea, up-close look at the coral reef in the Gulf of Mexico, and a cam that lets viewers mingle with flamingos!

Tennessee Aquarium

Don’t live in the Chattanooga area? No problem. You can visit the Tennessee Aquarium anytime with their wonderful live cams! Check in on their gentoo and macaroni penguins, witness courtship, nest building, rearing young, and even molting. Watch river otters scampering up and down a multi-tiered landscape. Lastly, venture into the saltwater exhibit, home to thousands of colorful reef fish, toothy sharks, and a rescued green sea turtle!

Virtual Aquarium

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9q9O1YIt3oo

Perfect for winding down at the end of the day, Virtual Aquarium shares the best freshwater and marine aquariums all in one place! Plus, with relaxing sounds of the ocean, waterfalls, and rainforests, you could leave this on as a screensaver on your television for a calming backdrop throughout your day.

Did we miss one of your favorite aquarium virtual field trips? Share them with us, and we might just add it to this list!

Also, check out the best field trip ideas for every age and interest (virtual options too).

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10 Best Virtual Tours at Zoos, Aquariums and Science Centers

You are sitting at home and wondering, “What can I do today?”  Well, here is one possibility – go on a whole bunch of virtual tours of some really cool places!  You don’t even have to leave the couch to see what these zoos, aquariums and science centers have to offer!  Of course, after you’re done, you might want to go out and do a little exploring of your own.  Or, maybe you want to create your own virtual tour and share with friends or family.  What do you have in your home or yard that you think you’d like to share?  Be creative and have fun!

The National Aquarium in Baltimore, MD

If you have never visited the National Aquarium in Baltimore, here is your chance.  This  360 degree, four-level view of the aquarium has links to a lot information about the animals that live at the aquarium and you get to be your own guide on your journey.

Questions for Reflection :  What animals did you recognize?  Which of them inspires you to more exploration?

Activity Suggestion:   Choose one of the animals that you liked and then do a computer search to see videos and pictures of the animal.  Draw or paint a picture of the animal and make it into a card to give to someone.

The Smithsonsian National Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C.

This museum has several virtual tours – get ready for a whole lot of exploration!  You can visit their permanent exhibits which includes the Mammal Hall, Ocean Hall, and Fossils Hall, among others; their current exhibits which includes a butterfly pavilion, among others; and their past exhibits which includes two dinosaur exhibits and a narwhal exhibit.  Just like when you visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in person, you will want to have more than one visit to view all these virtual tours.

Questions for Reflection:   Which virtual tour interested you the most?  Why?

Activity Suggestion:   Create a museum type exhibit with items in your own home.  What is the theme of your exhibit?  How do all the items connect to one another?

Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia

Here you can experience the zoo through a series of YouTube videos .  You are going to have an incredible time meeting these animals who are living Down Under!

Questions for Reflection:   What animals were your favorites?  Do you have an animal at home?  What information would you share about your own animal if you were making a video?

Activity Suggestion:   Create a short animal video with you being the animal keeper.  Don’t have a real animal – maybe use a stuffed animal or animal figurine.

Center of Science and Industry in Columbus, OH

If you love dinosaurs, then you must explore a 360 degree tour of the American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur Gallery at COSI !!  (Kids, you might need a little help to get the hang of this in the beginning).  While exploring, you can look at all the dinosaur skeletons and learn fun facts about dinosaurs through video links throughout the exhibit.  You’ll have a roaring good time!

Questions for Reflection :  What did you learn about dinosaurs?  Did you learn anything that was new?

Activity Suggestion:   Try dinosaur shadow drawing , or use any object if you don’t have a dinosaur.

Museum of the Dog in New York City

Do you love dogs, or even like them a little?  If so, you might want to take a few virtual tours of this museum.  The first of three virtual tours is MUSH! A Tribute to Sled Dogs , the second is Best in Show , and the third is permanent collection of the museum .  There is a lot to read in these three virtual tours and some great pictures.  A good family activity with your dog!

Questions for Reflection:   Which dog breed is your favorite?  What do you like about the breed?  What do you think it would be like to be an arctic explorer on a dog sled?

Activity Suggestion:   Watch Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show videos and then figure out what you and your dog can do together.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas, TX

Here you can take a virtual tour of Origins: Fossils from the Cradle of Humankind with some activities to try along the way – like a cave squeeze!  During this exploration you can get an idea of what it feels like to go into a cave and find fossils.  This home tour is especially good for those who get scared in small spaces or in the dark because you can do it your big room with all the lights on!

Questions for Reflection:   What did you learn about caves?  What did you learn about fossils?

Activity Suggestion:   Try the cave squeeze and then think about what it would be like to be inside a cave.  Share your thoughts with someone in your family.

Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels, Belgium

On this tour you’ll find dinosaur and mammoth skeletons, live spiders and beetles, and many, many animal fossils.  Once you get the hang of how to navigate, you’ll have a grand time discovering all the secrets in this museum.  After you take the virtual tour, check out the online exhibits to learn more about all the things you just viewed and visit the at-home science activities to have more fun!

Questions for Reflection:   What live animals did you find?  What animal skeletons did you discover?

Activity Suggestion:   Now that you’ve seen pictures of some animal skeletons, find a picture of a human skeleton.  How are the skeletons the same?  How are they different?

Oxford University History of Science Museum, Oxford, England

To really understand science today, it helps to learn who built the foundations of different scientific principles and the tools that were created to further advance our understanding of science.  Take the virtual tour and then check out the videos of the historic science instruments .  You will learn so much about how scientists of today were able to do the work they do because of work that others did before them.

Questions for Reflection:   What do you like best about learning the history of scientific instruments?  How do you think machines in your own home developed over time?

Activity Suggestion:   Think of a toy or an appliance – what changes could be made to make it even better?

Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, GA

You can tour this aquarium through its variety of webcams and then check out all the other at-home learning experiences that are available.  You’ll have a great time seeing the beluga whales, sea otters, sea lions, and much more.

Questions for Reflection:   What marine mammals did you discover?  What other marine mammals or marine life can you name?

Activity Suggestion:   Try drawing a picture of your favorite marine animal!

Walt Disney World, Animal Kingdom and Epcot, Orlando, FL

While this is not exactly a virtual tour, you still get to see pictures of and read about all the animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.  They have a large variety of land and marine animals from small invertebrates to cute gibbons to huge hippos .  The best thing about the Disney animal pages are the three sections in the descriptions – Home Away From Home; Disney Conservation; and You Can Help Too.

Questions for Reflection:   What animals appeal to you most?  What things could you do to help your favorite animals?

Activity Suggestion:   Take a look around your yard or neighborhood.  What invertebrates can you find?  Record your findings in a journal or on a piece of paper.  Now, to attract more invertebrates, watch this video about making an invertebrate hotel and then follow these instructions to make your own invertebrate hotel .  What invertebrates used your hotel?  Take pictures of them.   Post your photos to iNaturalist .  Scientists will be able to identify all of those bugs for you!

Now it’s time to let the adventures begin!  In each segment, we had activity suggestions.  What else could you do?  We’d love to hear from you with your fun ideas and creations by posting on social media with #ScienceatHome.  Here’s another overall activity suggestion, do some more exploration of the places that are listed for each location.  What else is there to see in Orlando, FL or Brussels, Belgium?  We, at CuriOdyssey, hope you have fun exploring and creating!

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16 Amazing Free Virtual Aquarium Tours

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My family loves to go on field trips, but sometimes it isn’t always practical. I’m finding that it is harder to make field trips work with our schedule as my kids get older. Thankfully there are quite a few virtual aquarium tour ideas available online.

A Virtual field trip offers a few benefits:

• No sitting in traffic or searching for a parking lot
• You are not limited to only going at certain times
• There are no lunches, snacks, and water bottles to pack
• Go on a virtual visit to multiple aquariums in one day – regardless of location
• Quick and easy
• Watch the live streams from the comfort of your own home
• You don’t need to worry about trying to see around larger groups
• Great for any age group

I searched aquarium websites all over the United States so that I could compile a list of all of the free virtual aquarium tours. Technically, these ideas are live cams. Many of the aquariums offer their own versions of virtual field trips, but those options are not free.

I recommend watching the free webcams and saving your field trip dollars for a day when you can go in person and get the full field trip experience. If you want to take advantage of one of the paid virtual aquarium programs, try to get a small group to join you so you can share the cost (and the fun).

These virtual aquarium tour suggestions are all hosted on official aquarium websites, not the YouTube site. YouTube isn’t always the best place for young children and I wanted this list to be full of safe online places. Hopefully, keeping the webcams on the official aquarium sites will prevent kids from clicking away to something not intended for little eyes.

There are a few ways to use these virtual aquarium tour ideas for almost any grade level:

• Watch animals as part of a school lesson
• Take breaks during the day to check out the amazing animals
• Check out their favorite animals as a reward for finishing schoolwork

Virtual Aquarium Tour Ideas

Some virtual aquariums charge an access fee or restrict viewing to members only. This list is only for free virtual tours.

Updated: 2/22

1. Georgia Aquarium

• Underwater Puffin
• Beluga Whales
• African Penguin
• Southern Sea Otter
• California Sea Lions
• Indo-Pacific Barrier Reef
• Ocean Voyager

The Georgia Aquarium has fantastic educational resources. The education team has put together videos to teach kids about the animals in the aquarium. There are also fun activities such as a word search, maze, and bingo.

2. Tennessee Aquarium

• Sharks Exhibit (includes a green sea turtle)
• North American River Otter
• Macaroni Penguin
• Island life

3. Maui Ocean Center

• Underwater Camera

Related: Tips for a Great Maui Ocean Center Field Trip

4. Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium has an online program called Stay Home. You can watch the entire series, or choose a specific animal to learn about.

5. National Aquarium

• Blacktip Reef Shark
• Pacific Coral Reefs

6. Oregon Coast Aquarium

The Oregon Coast Aquarium offers lesson plans for grades 3 – 8 under the teacher resources tab.

7. Seattle Aquarium

• Harbor Seal

Related: Seattle Area Field Trips

8. Aquarium of the Pacific

• Penguin Habitat
• Underwater Penguin Habitat
• Shark Lagoon
• Sea Nettles
• Tropical Reef
• Honda Blue Cavern
• Coral Predators

Make the most of your Aquarium of the Pacific virtual aquarium tour with the free resource kits . These kits contain multiple lesson plan ideas about things like ocean habitats, animal adaptations, and conservation of the world.

9. California Academy of Sciences

• Reef Lagoon
• Philippine Coral Reef
• Farallon Island Live Cam

10. Birch Aquarium

• Kelp Forest

The Birch Aquarium offers a printable food webs activity.

11. Mystic Aquarium

12. the dallas world aquarium, 13. clearwater marine aquarium.

• Sea Turtle Rescue

14. Ripley’s Aquarium

• Rainbow Reef with Tropical Fish

15. Odysea Aquarium

The OdySea Aquarium offers free lesson plans for preschool – high school. These would be a great addition to a marine biology curriculum!

16. Monterey Bay Aquarium

• Kelp Forests
• Monterey Bay

Bonus: Virtual Zoology: The Animal Kingdom Branch of Biology

A teacher reached out to me to let me know about this awesome resource that his students found. Thanks for sharing it with me Harry, Kelly, and the rest of the student volunteers!

The virtual zoology site has links to a ton of animal webcams. There are both marine animals you would find in an aquarium and animals that you might find in a zoo. Of course, there is some overlap between these categories.

• Farrallon Islands live webcam
• Humboldt Penguins
• Siamang Monkey
• Mountain Lions
• Puppies (My family fosters puppies, so this is definitely one of my favorites!)

Need ideas on how to incorporate these awesome virtual aquarium tours into homeschool lessons? Here are a few ideas:

• Geography – Check out different animals and aquatic life that live in a part of the world you are studying.
• Language arts – See real examples of aquatic animals found in books. For example, if there is a jellyfish in a story, hop online and view some of the real jellyfish at Ripley’s Aquarium.
• Science – Take a virtual aquarium tour while studying biology or marine biology
• Documentaries – After watching a documentary about an animal, see if you can watch the animal online.

Online tours can be a great way to have a unique educational experience. You can see so many animals that you would never be able to see otherwise!

Do you know of any other virtual aquarium tour opportunities or an amazing live webcam? Leave the suggestions in the comments so everyone can check them out!

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Welcome! My name is Jennifer. I am a teacher at heart. Before my children were born I was a public school teacher. Now, I am a homeschooling mom of two.

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When you can't get away, your kids still can by taking a virtual field trip to a museum, farm, zoo, or another fun location. We compiled our list of favorites to help you keep your kids engaged and entertained. Some of these are virtual tours (you can actively decide where to go on the tour) and others are video walkthroughs (just watch and learn), but all give you a great experience of the location.

Best Art-Centric Virtual Tour: The Met

A glimpse at some of the greatest works of art created.

Online exhibits on various topics.

There's only one view of the museum currently available.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is home to over 5,000 years of art from around the world. You can see some of it from the comfort of your home. Take a virtual stroll through part of the museum using Google Street View. There are also numerous online exhibits on topics like Coco Chanel, Vermeer, Catholic allegory in art, and more.

Best Tour of Space: NASA

The volume of space videos.

The approachable aspect of the videos.

So much more to see on the site.

It's not easily searchable unless you know what you're looking for.

This might be cheating a bit because it's really a collection of videos, but, oh boy, what a collection to tour! The Galleries open up an array of videos covering space topics from testing a parachute for Mars to moving water in space. Each video is a mini virtual tour that will awe kids and encourage interest in science and space.

Best Tour of the White House: Google Arts & Culture's The White House

Stunning 360-degree images.

See inside and outside the White House.

Offers views of 140 paintings.

Once inside a tour, it's hard to know what you're looking at.

No search functions.

Every President since John Adams has occupied the White House and now your children can visit it, too. Google Arts & Culture offers four museum views (three tours of The White House and one of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building) plus a look at more than 140 paintings that grace (or have graced) the walls of the country's most famous abode. The 360-degree images let kids explore to their heart's desire.

Best Cave Virtual Tour: Son Doong Cave

Son Doong is beautiful.

The virtual tour includes lots of information.

Zoom into areas for a more detailed look.

No supplemental online activities.

Son Doong is the world's largest natural cave. Located in Vietnam, it features a subterranean river and the largest cross-section of any cave worldwide. National Geographic's virtual tour lets you explore the cave with full 360-degree views and immersive sounds. You can even zoom in one area to check out the campers in their tents. Son Doong is beautiful and worth a virtual visit.

Best National Park Virtual Tour: Yellowstone

Offers multiple tours.

Lots of historical information.

Amazing images.

No video tours.

Lots of written information that can turn off some kids.

Yellowstone offers seven virtual tours appropriate for older elementary and middle school ages. There's a lot of written information along with the images, and the tours aren't in video. However, the information is fascinating, and the photos are stunning.

From learning about old Fort Yellowstone to discovering park anomalies like Mud Volcano, these tours are a great way for kids to discover unique facts about America.

Best Natural History Tour: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

So many exhibits to see!

Easy, clickable maps.

Quick and easy to navigate.

It's not always easy to read the signs in the exhibits.

This iconic museum is dedicated to understanding the natural world and humanity's place in it. There's so much to see it can't possibly be listed here. However, the museum offers an online tour of most of its exhibits. Split this tour up into multiple lessons, so kids don't get overwhelmed.

Skip the ground floor and go straight to the first or second floors.

Best Aquarium Virtual Tour: National Aquarium

Easy to find exhibits.

Fun to explore using the 360-degree options.

Some scenes spin quickly, which can frustrate young learners.

Baltimore's National Aquarium features more than 20,000 aquatic animals. Kids can click and drag images to navigate their way around and use arrows, the map, or a scene list to explore various exhibits. Explore eight areas, such as the Amazon River, a tropical rain forest, and jellyfish.

Best Tours of the World: AirPano

Bright, well-produced videos and images.

Offers tours of numerous countries.

Includes video and still frame-images.

What's not to like?

AirPano has a variety of tours in China, Portugal, Switzerland, and more countries. Children can visit the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge in China, an underwater cave in Indonesia, ski resorts in France, and more destinations around the globe.

What makes this site so good is that it offers narrations of several tours, provides closeups through interactive actions, and includes short chunks of written information that's easy for kids of most ages to read. The tours are also fairly short, which makes these tours great for younger kids, but older kids will still enjoy the trip.

Best Virtual Tour for Car Lovers: Lane Motor Museum

Totally unique tour.

An inside look that allows for deep diving into collections.

There's no way to tell what a specific vehicle is unless you know cars.

Scroll to the bottom of the link to watch a fun virtual tour of one of the most unique car museums in the world. Lane Motor Museum is home to an oddball collection of vehicles dating from the 1920s up to modern times.

Your child will love seeing amphibious vehicles, microcars, prototypes, and more. The tour is easy to click through and offers six angles to entertain viewers.

Best Tours of Nature: Nature Works Everywhere

Tours are narrated and easy to follow.

Provides student handouts, vocabulary, and discussion questions.

We wish there was a larger library of tours!

Explore nature around the world with Nature Works Everywhere's virtual tours. Visit the coral reefs of Palau, the deserts and grasslands of Africa, a rainforest (from a canoe's viewpoint), a renewable energy plant, and more.

The tours are narrated and give great, quick facts to help kids learn in simple, straightforward ways. All tours are appropriate for grades 3 through 12 but are marked with notes about the grades most likely to enjoy the tour.

Best Historical Tour: Ellis Island

A clear explanation of Ellis Island, how it worked, and why it was needed.

Includes children asking questions of tour guides.

The images in much of the tour are small in order to focus on the tour guides.

Ellis Island is a key piece of American history. This virtual tour offers lots of anecdotes and features actual guides from Ellis Island telling stories. Plus, it includes lots of pictures and views of the island.

It's more appropriate for fourth grade and up, mainly due to the litany of facts and complexity of the information provided.

Best Slime-Based Virtual Tour: Slime in Space

Nickelodeon

It's playful and educational.

Good production values.

Fun experiments.

It's a video, not an interactive virtual tour.

What happens to Nickelodeon's iconic slime when it's in space? That's the concept behind the Slime in Space virtual field trip. Featuring real astronauts and Nickelodeon celebrities, the 15-minute video shows kids how slime and water react in a microgravity environment 250 miles above the Earth. Along the way, it answers burning questions like, "Is slime a solid or a liquid?" and "Can you slime a person in space?" (The answer is: yes, very slowly.)

Best Virtual Zoo Tour: San Diego Zoo

Live cams of the animals.

A variety of educational videos.

Fun games and activities.

Fixed camera angles mean you're not always guaranteed to see the animals.

The San Diego Zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals of more than 650 species and subspecies. It's widely considered one of the best zoos in the world. But, if you can't make it to California, it has a robust virtual experience online.

You can peek in on the animals through live cams. There's also a variety of videos that teach kids about vultures or show them how to draw a tiger, for example. There are also zoo-related games and activities kids can do at home.

Best General Farm Tour: FarmFood 360

360-degree views of the farm.

Offers a free app for Android and iOS.

It can be hard to see things on a mobile device.

FarmFood 360 gives an inside look at the activities of a Canadian farm. Kids see 360-degree views of the farm as they learn about milk and cheese production, sheep farming, egg processing, and more.

There's an app available for Android and iOS devices, and it's compatible with some virtual reality headsets.

Best Virtual Planetarium: Stellarium

Realistic night sky simulation.

Mobile apps are available.

Includes a telescope control module for experienced astronomers.

Can be difficult to navigate.

The mobile apps aren't free, but the money supports the project.

Stellarium Web is an online planetarium created by two brothers. Offering an accurate and realistic view of the night sky, it lets you pan around and spot stars, satellites, and other celestial bodies.

It offers mobile apps for Android and iOS that aren't free. The money goes toward paying server and development costs for the two-person project.

Best Living-History Virtual Tour: Colonial Williamsburg

Next best thing to being there.

The virtual scavenger hunt.

The virtual tours are highly interactive.

Virtual tour models can load slowly.

Condensation or inclement weather can obstruct the webcam views.

Colonial Williamsburg is a living-history museum in Virginia that offers a glimpse at what life was like in the 18th century. Its virtual tour is highly interactive and includes videos, informational signs, and 3D models you can rotate.

With its various webcams, you can see the armory, courthouse, merchants square, and more. Colonial Williamsburg's website also offers a virtual scavenger hunt your kids can participate in as they tour the area.

Best European Museum Virtual Tour: The Louvre

It's the Louvre.

The website offers a list of online family-friendly activities.

The virtual tours include a map and an information button.

The website offers limited language options.

Sure, we'd love to jet off to France and tour its fabulous museums personally. But if that's not an option, the Louvre has several virtual tours available on its website. The offerings include exhibitions on the body in movement, founding myths, Egyptian antiquities, and more.

The Louvre also has a handy list of family-friendly online resources everyone can enjoy, including a Mona Lisa VR experience.

Best Factory Virtual Tour: M&M Factory Tour

Zoonar RF / Getty Images

Who doesn't love chocolate?

360-degree views of the factory.

It's short.

The Food Network teamed up with candy maker Mars to give M&M fans a virtual tour of one of its factories. During the short YouTube video, viewers can pan around as a tour guide explains how unrefined chocolate is turned into the little candies we know and love.

Best General Virtual Tour Resource: Discovery Education

An eclectic variety of virtual field trips.

Watch live or on demand.

Trips come with a companion guide packed with activities.

A schedule of when field trips go live would be nice.

Discovery Education offers a variety of virtual field trips for kids learning from home. The offerings change often but currently include an NFL experience, a doodling experience meant to encourage creativity, and a virtual field trip through the internet of things. You can watch the field trips live or catch the videos later on-demand.

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Baltimore Is Home to the Country's National Aquarium — and 'Walk With T+L' Is Giving You a Look Inside

Explore the Baltimore landmark with a behind-the-scenes tour.

No matter your age or area of interest, the National Aquarium is the place to visit on a trip to Baltimore. From sea dwellers like sharks and turtles to land critters like sloths and puffins, this aquatic destination is home to a wealth of wildlife that helps visitors learn a little more about the planet they live on.

In this episode of Walk With T+L , the aquarium's experts take viewers on a behind-the-scenes tour to showcase the animals and explain how each of their unique habitats thrive. To find out more about the exhibits and future plans, we caught up with Lindsey Rowell, the aquarium's public relations specialist. Here's what she had to say.

Travel + Leisure: What would you say is the most popular exhibit at the aquarium? Which one tends to be the fan-favorite?

Lindsey: A consistent fan favorite is Shark Alley. As guests descend the winding pathway, they come nose-to-nose with several species of sharks and learn that there is much more to admire about these misunderstood predators than there is to fear.

In addition, Jellies Invasion , which features nine species of translucent and brainless invertebrates, brings guests from near and far. From the graceful Pacific sea nettle to the short and stout blue blubber, this exhibit highlights the stunning diversity of jelly populations.

Finally, the Upland Tropical Rain Forest rounds out the Aquarium's top three most popular exhibits, transporting guests to the heart of a South American rain forest. Beautiful tropical birds, hanging sloths, and scampering golden lion tamarin monkeys live among hundreds of rain forest plants to recreate one of the most biologically diverse — and rapidly disappearing — habitats on Earth.

Beyond looking at the amazing animals in the aquarium, what do you hope guests (or viewers of your episode) get out of visiting?

Lindsey: The National Aquarium works to change the way humanity cares for our ocean planet. The Aquarium hopes that with each visit, guests will learn something that motivates them to protect wildlife species and habitats in their own communities.

In addition, outside of the Aquarium, through science-based education programs and hands-on field initiatives, the National Aquarium is creating a new community of hopeful conservationists, driven by its mission to inspire conservation of the world's aquatic treasures.

We know the aquarium is planning on constructing a new dolphin reserve. Can you tell us a little bit about that?

Lindsey: The National Aquarium plans to build a seaside sanctuary for its Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, the first of its kind in North America. The site will give aquarium staff the ability to provide lifetime customized care for each dolphin in a larger outdoor location with natural sea water, tropical or subtropical climate, and natural stimulus such as fish and aquatic plants.

What's next for the aquarium? Are there any future plans you can talk about?

Lindsey: The aquarium plans to install a network of floating wetlands between Piers 3 and 4 [in Baltimore's Inner Harbor], creating a habitat for native species, gradually improving the harbor's water quality, and reconnecting residents and visitors with the natural world right at the water's edge. Currently, a floating wetland prototype is in place.

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Secret reef.

Thanks to support from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA, you can take a virtual dive into the Tennessee Aquarium’s Secret Reef exhibit. This saltwater exhibit, home to thousands of colorful reef fish, big, toothy sharks and a rescued green sea turtle, is designed to model the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary . Aquarium visitors enjoy more than two dozen viewing windows, each with a different perspective of this habitat.

Sand Tiger Shark

Carcharias taurus, sandbar shark, charcharinus plumbeus, green sea turtle, chelonia mydas, southern stingray, all live cams.

Lake Sturgeon Cam

Penguins' Rock

River Otter Falls

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