NC Aquariums Welcome Visitors to a Unique Underwater Experience at Independence Mall in Wilmington

When one door closes another one opens! NC Aquariums Discovery Bay is now open at Independence Mall, a unique underwater world for shoppers to visit right next to their favorite shops. With the official ribbon cutting today, Wednesday, July 8, visitors began touring this mini aquarium which features seahorses, frogs, fish and carnivorous plants. During the yearslong closure of the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher (NCAFF) for renovation and expansion, this spot creates connection between the team and the community. The NC Aquariums are a division of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

"While we await the amazing transformation happening at NCA Fort Fisher, we're thrilled to be up and running with a fun and relaxing space at Independence Mall," said Joanna Zazzali, director, NCAFF. "We look forward to continuing immersive opportunities for visitors that will inspire them to be part of conservation of our natural world."

Discovery Bay is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6 p.m. in the JC Penney wing of the mall across from the arcade. The NC Aquarium Society hosts a gift shop as part of this exciting new experience.

About the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is just south of Kure Beach, a short drive from Wilmington on U.S. 421 and less than a mile from the Fort Fisher ferry terminal. The Aquarium is one of three Aquariums and a pier that make up the North Carolina Aquariums, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. While the Aquarium is closed, visitors are encouraged to stroll into Discovery Bay at Independence mall, a complimentary experience or reserve their tickets at NCA Pine Knoll Shores and NCA Roanoke Island or to visit Jennette's Pier for some great fishing.

About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural ResourcesThe N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina - its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. At more than 100 sites across the state, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency. For more information, please visit https://www.dncr.nc.gov.

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