Save the Bay cuts the ribbon on the new Hamilton Family Aquarium

Newport’s newest family attraction, Save the Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium, was unveiled earlier today in a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by aquarium staff, state and local dignitaries, invited guests, and enthusiastic students from Thompson Middle School.

Hamilton Family Charitable Trust President Chekemma J. Fulmore-Townsend officially cut the ribbon alongside Save the Bay Executive Director Topher Hamblett, Newport Mayor Xay Hamsyvoravong, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, and students who were among the first to see (and touch) the aquarium exhibits. The shark tank, which allows visitors to pet the local sealife, was especially popular.

The new aquarium features a modern facility, educational exhibits, and docent-led activities. Museum officials expect large crowds this spring and summer at the aquarium which encourages guests to come face-to-face with the creatures and species that live beneath Narragansett Bay waters.

Located at 23 America’s Cup Ave. in Newport, RI, the aquarium opens to the public on March 28. Click here for details. Check out some photos of the ribbon-cutting and more in our slideshow below.

About Save The Bay: Founded in 1970, the Rhode Island-based nonprofit Save The Bay seeks to protect and improve Narragansett Bay and its 1,705-square-mile watershed. The organization works to achieve its vision of a fully swimmable, fishable Narragansett Bay, accessible to all, through its advocacy, education, and habitat restoration and adaptation work. Learn more about Save The Bay at www.savebay.org.