1401 Constitution Ave.
Commerce Building basement
202/482-2825
www.nationalaquarium.org

HOURS: Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

COST: $9.95 ages 11-59,
$8.95 seniors,
$8.95 military personnel and family members,
$4.95 ages 3-11,
free under age 3

A stowaway in the basement of the Commerce Building and accessed through a door that faces 14th Street, the National Aquarium is a favorite for families with young children and anyone who enjoys getting close to small sharks, puffer fish, moray eels, and baby sea turtles.

This is a small, manageable adventure into the underwater realm, a branch of the larger aquarium in Baltimore that is rarely crowded. Highlights include fish feedings and exhibits based on national marine sanctuary habitats.

It’s a great space for those with toddlers—no worries about losing them—and anyone who likes communing in the dark with the cast of Finding Nemo.

Beyoncé, the aquarium’s Giant Pacific Octopus, is a staff favorite, a huge cephalopod that needs numerous toys to keep her amused.