Aquarium turns 60

NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y., JAN. 10, 2025 – The Aquarium of Niagara is proud to announce a year long celebration in honor of the organization’s 60th year in Niagara Falls.

Since its opening on June 12, 1965, as "The Aquarium of Niagara Falls," the facility has served as a hub for scientific discovery, environmental education, and innovation. Founded by a group of researchers and chemists as a test site for a groundbreaking formula for artificial seawater, the Aquarium was the first inland aquarium in the world to exclusively use this new technology to maintain thriving marine exhibits. Known as "Instant Ocean," the formula revolutionized the ability to replicate complex marine environments in places far from the coast, bringing the wonders of the ocean and its inhabitants to communities that had never before had access to such experiences. The Aquarium's success with Instant Ocean became a model for inland aquariums worldwide, and its founding president, William E. Kelley, went on to help establish public aquariums in Cleveland, Ohio and Mystic, Connecticut. Today, Instant Ocean is widely used by professionals and hobbyists worldwide.

Over the decades, the Aquarium has demonstrated leadership in the fields of research and animal husbandry. In the early 1970s, the Aquarium collaborated with researchers at what was then known as Roswell Park Memorial Institute to provide dolphin blood samples for studies on rare human blood types, as well as horseshoe crab blood to advance research on endotoxins linked to bacterial infections in humans. In 1987, the Aquarium achieved another milestone when one of its seals underwent the first successful cataract surgery performed on a harbor seal.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since 2018, the Aquarium upholds the highest standards in animal care and is involved in collaborative conservation efforts. As the only provider of interactive educational programs focused on marine life and aquatic ecosystems in the region, the Aquarium plays a pivotal role in fostering environmental stewardship and scientific learning. The Aquarium also offers a robust daily schedule of talks and presentations that engage and inform guests about the animals at the Aquarium, as well as their wild counterparts. This past summer, the Aquarium expanded its commitment to providing experiences that both educate and entertain with the opening of a second building dedicated to interpreting the unique ecosystems of the Great Lakes.

“As we celebrate 60 years of inspiring curiosity about the aquatic world, we are proud to have provided millions of guests with meaningful opportunities to connect with the animals in our care,” said Chad Fifer, president & CEO, Aquarium of Niagara. “These moments create lasting

memories and foster a deeper appreciation for our natural world, and we remain committed to empowering future generations with the knowledge, tools, and passion to protect and preserve it.”

The 60th anniversary celebration will include a variety of events, pop-up exhibits, and community initiatives throughout 2025, showcasing the Aquarium's rich history and its continued dedication to conservation and education. In addition, the Aquarium is introducing a special 60th anniversary logo and releasing a downloadable list of “60 Conservation Actions” – simple, actionable tips designed to help individuals make a positive impact on the planet.

The public is invited to lend historical memorabilia and photos to be displayed at the Aquarium as well as popular Niagara Falls destinations. Anyone interested in submitting an item or photograph for these displays should fill out this form.

For more information on the Aquarium’s anniversary celebrations, visit

aquariumofniagara.org/60thanniversary.