Newport Aquarium is opening its new $1.5 million exhibit, “Jellies: Go with the Flow.”
The exhibit includes seven habitats filled with more than 1,500 gallons of salt water filtered precisely to each species’ needs by the aquarium’s expert water filtration team. Half a dozen species, nearly 100 jellyfish in total, will call Jellies: Go with the Flow home.
Opening on March 21, the exhibit will offer photo opportunities and a jelly-inspired chandelier recreated from an original aquarium art piece—all included with admission and membership reservations.
Jellyfish have no brain, bones, or boundaries— they’re the ultimate drifters, moving with ocean currents. They simply go with the flow, adapting to their environment and thriving in the ever-changing seas. From glowing bioluminescence to trailing tentacles, visitors will discover how jellyfish move, survive and shape ocean ecosystems—all while embracing the beauty of nature.
The species included in the new exhibit are:
- The South American sea nettle (Chrysaora plocamia): This species can grow up to 10 ft. with flowing tentacles.
- Upside-down jellyfish (Cassiopea spp.): A cylindrical habitat offers 160-degree views of this unique species that lives upside-down to help photosynthesize the algae in its tissues.
- The dwarf lion’s mane (Cyanea versicolor): A never-before-seen jelly species in the region. These jellies are sometimes called “ghost jellyfish” due to their translucent and ethereal appearance.
- Blue blubber jellyfish (Catostylus mosaicus): A brightly colored species that pulses and undulates in a distinctive staccato pattern.
- White-spotted jellyfish (Phyllorhiza punctata): This species, named for the signature white spots on their bells, adds extra color and pizzazz to the exhibit.
- Moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita): A guest favorite for its hypnotic rhythmic motion. This translucent species is relocating to the new exhibit, where three of its life stages will be on display.
Ahead of the exhibit’s opening, Newport Aquarium is extending the registration period for free Pre-K membership.
The free Pre-K membership unlocks a full year of unlimited visits for children 2-4, including an invite to the Jellies: Go with the Flow member preview party on March 19.
Registration is open until March 7, with activation required in person at Newport Aquarium with valid proof of age by March 9.