Visitors to the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, located in Kure Beach (a short drive from Wilmington), enjoy an exploration of “The Waters of the Cape Fear.” Journey down the Cape Fear River – from freshwater streams and swamps, to coastline habitats, reefs and the open ocean – discovering unique habitats and aquatic wildlife. Meet a rare albino alligator named Luna. See the only spotted eagle ray on exhibit in the state. Get eye-to-eye with a loggerhead sea turtle. Talk to a SCUBA diver swimming with sharks rays and eels. Discover N.C.’s fiercest predator at the interactive Megalodon Exhibit. Touch sea stars, horseshoe crabs and even sharks! Play outside in the Adventure Reef play area. Free daily programs include dive presentations, animal feedings and encounters. Explore more with behind-the-scenes tours, outdoor adventures, classes, camps and more. Open 362 days a year, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day). Tickets available at the door and online.