Niagara Falls, N.Y. (WBEN) - The Aquarium of Niagara is expanding its campus in Niagara Falls with an $18 million project.
"We are now officially the preferred developer for a series of properties that neighbor our existing campus," said Gary Siddall, President and CEO of the Aquarium of Niagara Falls on WBEN on Wednesday.
"We're going to develop that land for a number of amenities including an
inclusive playground, a new building that will house concessions, a cafe, retail space, and traveling exhibits."
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Under a partnership with New York State Parks, the Aquarium is currently renovating the former Niagara Gorge Discovery Center and turning that into Great Lakes 360. That's considered the first investment into the multi building campus. It is set to open in the spring of 2024.
The new properties announced this week will be part of a new vision for the campus. Land transfers still have to be finalized.
"For the last few years we've been positioning ourselves for this bold step forward," added Siddall. "We've done a number of exhibit renovations and visitor enhancements. I like to describe it as renovating your kitchen or living room before putting a huge addition on the back of your house."
In terms of securing itself as a destination in Niagara Falls, N.Y., Siddall said he's like to see the Aquarium become the other must-see, must-do attraction outside of Niagara Falls State Park.
"There are so many great things happening within the confines of the State Park, whether it's the Maid of the Mist or Cave of the Winds. I see our role as being the other must-see, must-do attraction. We're so close to the natural wonder itself. Our new building is actually seated within the State Park."
Siddall believes the Aquarium is positioning itself to take on a much stronger leadership role in the community.
If you haven't been to the Aquarium in a while, they have over 120 different species in the collection with about 35 exhibits.
There's a healthy debate going as to whether the penguins, seals or sea lions are the real stars of the Aquarium.
"Honestly, I think our jelly fish could give them all a run for their money," quipped Siddall. "We've really worked hard to bring on a number of new exhibits, new species,
The Aquarium of Niagara is one of 56 accredited aquariums in the country.
"If you haven't been here in a while, it's definitely worth a visit," noted Siddall. "Particularly if you're looking to dodge some hot weather or raindrops. Our entire campus, right now is indoors. When you come inside, you'll see a lot of new things including our new penguin exhibit, our new jellyfish exhibit. We have a hands-on stingray and shark pool. Sea lion shows run throughout the day. Very shortly, we'll be welcoming a sea turtle into our collection. That will be a first in our 57 year history."