The South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston's most visited attraction, features thousands of amazing aquatic animals from river otters and sharks to loggerhead turtles in over 60 exhibits, which represent the rich biodiversity of South Carolina from the mountains to the sea. The Aquarium also presents fabulous views of Charleston harbour like no other found in the historic downtown area. Daily interactive exhibits and programs are offered for visitors of all ages. Every visit to the Aquarium reveals something new - glimpses of new animals in exhibits, budding plants, baby animals and more. Not only that, the institution provides a variety of opportunities to learn about conservation, animal life, endangered species and environmental issues. The aquarium has recently added a new exhibition called the Madagascar Journey, featuring examples of the island's widely varied habitats, as well as four ring-tailed lemurs from the island to look at and interact with. This exhibition has been put on in conjunction with the Lemur Circle, an organization intent on preserving both lemurs and their habitats in Madagascar.

Address: 100 Aquarium Wharf

Website: www.scaquarium.org

Telephone: (843) 720 1990

Transport: The DASH Shuttle service to the Aquarium is available from the Charleston Visitor Center

Opening times: Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sunday 12pm to 5pm. Open until 6pm from April to August. Last ticket sold an hour before closing time. Closed for Thanksgiving and Christmas

Admission: $24.95 (adults), $17.95 (children 2-11). Other concessions, and discounted group tickets are also available