BUFFALO, N.Y. — There's a new exhibit at the Aquarium of Niagara.
Starting July 13, visitors can interact with turtles, sturgeon, and more diverse species native to the Great Lakes at a brand new exhibit opening in the Niagara Falls Aquarium.
On Friday, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced the opening of Great Lakes 360- the aquarium's newest living museum, featuring 16 interactive exhibits.
“This is a significant moment for the Aquarium of Niagara," said Chad Fifer, president and CEO of the Aquarium of Niagara. "As we celebrate the first expansion in our nearly 60-year history, we are thrilled to showcase these important local ecosystems as we increase our footprint in the community."
The Great Lakes exhibit is part of the Niagara Halls Heritage Gateways project that works to stimulate reinvestment in the city.
"Great Lakes 360 is a major upgrade not only for the Aquarium of Niagara but also for Niagara Falls as a whole," Assembly member Angelo Morinello said. The president and CEO of Destination Niagara USA, John Percy, added his excitement for the potential of the Great Lakes exhibit to attract visitors to the Niagara region year round.
Several grants helped to create the aquarium's latest addition. A $1 million dollar capital grant from I LOVE NY's Market New York program and a grant of $675,000 by Empire State Development supported the aquarium's expansion.
Great Lakes 360 is located near other Niagara Falls attractions including the Niagara Gorge, State Parks, and the New York Power Authority. For more information on the Aquarium of Niagara, click here.