The aquarium is housed in a former coal-burning power plant that was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
The SeaTube, a 175-foot-long underwater tunnel, passes directly through the shark and ray exhibit.
The facility contains over 1.2 million gallons of water total across all its exhibits.
It features a specific gallery dedicated to the native fish of the Ohio River and Lake Erie.
The building was designed by architect George H. Smith and originally powered the Cleveland streetcar system.
The aquarium's layout is subterranean, located on the lower levels of the Powerhouse complex.
The Greater Cleveland Aquarium is situated within the historic 1890s FirstEnergy Powerhouse building on the west bank of the Cuyahoga River. The facility features a series of themed galleries, including a centerpiece 230,000-gallon shark exhibit that allows visitors to walk through a transparent underwater tunnel. Exhibits showcase aquatic life from global ecosystems, ranging from the Great Lakes region to tropical Indo-Pacific reefs. The aquarium emphasizes education through its focus on biodiversity and regional marine habitats. The architectural setting utilizes the industrial brick aesthetic of the former power station, integrating modern tanks into a revitalized heritage structure.
The interior of the SeaTube, capturing sharks and rays swimming directly overhead.
Visit during the weekday afternoons to avoid crowds of school groups.
Check the daily feeding schedule upon arrival to see diver-led presentations in the main shark tank.
Wear comfortable, flat shoes as the attraction involves significant walking on concrete floors.
Do not mistake the Powerhouse exterior for the entire venue; the aquarium occupies the interior basement levels.
Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Refrain from using flash photography near sensitive aquatic life; follow posted signs regarding no-touch zones.
