Catch Them Before They Swim Away: Your Guide to Mermaids at Newport Aquarium (Now Through June 21)

A Real-Life Fairytale — But Only Through June 21

Some experiences only come around once in a while, and this is one of them. Real-life Mermaids are swimming at Newport Aquarium right now, gliding alongside tropical fish, waving to wide-eyed kids, and blowing bubble kisses through the glass. But here’s the catch: they’re only here through June 21, 2026. Once they swim away, that’s it for the season.

These story-loving Mermaids have splashed through oceans near and far, collecting tales from coral reefs, kelp forests, and hidden coves along the way. Ask where they’re from, and you just might get a wave, a wink, or a giggle-worthy fishy fact. If you’ve been meaning to plan a visit, now is the time. Here’s exactly what your family can experience.

Meet a Mermaid Face-to-Fin at Mermaid Cove

Step into Mermaid Cove, a tropical hideaway where Mermaids make waves and stingrays soar all around. It’s an enchanting, up-close encounter where a Mermaid glides up to greet you while her stingray besties swim by, you can even reach out to gently touch a stingray. It’s the kind of magical, face-to-fin moment your kids will be talking about long after you’ve left.

Snap a Photo With Your New Mermaid BFF

Swim on over to Shark Ray Bay Theater for a meet & greet with a real Mermaid. It’s your chance to say hello, share a smile, and capture the perfect photo with your new underwater best friend — all while sharks, rays, and vibrant fish put on a show of their own behind the glass. Have your camera ready; these are the kind of photos that end up framed on the wall.

Watch the Magic Unfold in the Coral Reef Tunnel

There’s nothing quite like watching a Mermaid twirl, flip, and dance through the sparkling waters of our Coral Reef Tunnel, right alongside her tropical fish friends. It’s a real-life fairytale full of bubble hearts, underwater dances, and signature bubble kisses sent just for you. Don’t be shy, give them a big wave when you spot them, and you’ll likely get a twirl and a smile in return.

Best of All? Mermaids Are FREE With Your Visit

Here’s the part parents love: Mermaid encounters are completely FREE with your general admission ticket or membership — no add-on required. The Mermaids swim Thursday through Sunday, with scheduled appearances throughout the day in Mermaid Cove, Shark Ray Bay Theater, and the Coral Reef Tunnel. Be sure to check the Mermaid Schedule before you go so you don’t miss a splash.

Make It Extra Magical: The Mermaids Breakfast Event

Want to take the magic to the next level? The Mermaids Breakfast Event lets your little ones meet a real Mermaid and enjoy a full breakfast buffet in the private Riverside Room, with gorgeous views of the Cincinnati skyline and Ohio River. Your ticket also includes general admission, so you can spend the rest of the day exploring. Advance tickets are required, and Members enjoy special pricing.

Insider Tips for the Best Mermaid Visit

Arrive early on a Thursday or Friday for smaller crowds and easier photo ops with the Mermaids. Check the daily schedule the morning of your visit and build your day around the showtimes. And remember, since the aquarium is fully indoor and air-conditioned, a Mermaid visit is the perfect way to beat the summer heat while making memories that last.

The Best Value Swims All Year Long

If you’re planning to come back this summer (and once you’ve met a Mermaid, you’ll want to), a Newport Aquarium Annual Membership is your best value. Membership includes unlimited visits, member-only previews, and discounts throughout the aquarium,  plus access to everything ahead, from summer fun to Underwater Pumpkin GLOW this fall and Scuba Santa this winter. As a proud AZA-accredited aquarium, every visit also helps support animal care and conservation.

Plan Your Visit Before They’re Gone

The Mermaids are only swimming through June 21, 2026,  so don’t wait. Select your visit date and dive into a real-life fairytale before the season ends. Already a member? Just check the schedule and come make a splash.