There's always a certain buzz in the air this time of year. School vacation is upon us, the seasonal visitors to Stellwagen Bank are out in full force and, slowly but surely, the thermometer is marching upward to mark the sizzling start of summer. That means it's a great time to visit the Aquarium!

The Reef restaurant and bar is open on the Front Plaza for harbor-side snacks and cocktails.

Timed ticketing is the best way to get in the door to see the penguins porpoising through the water or the sea lions cavorting in their breezy, open-air exhibit overlooking Boston Harbor. Choose the day and time you'd like to visit and you're already one step closer to the thousands of animals that live here on Central Wharf! (Got questions about timed ticketing? These might help.) We offer extended summer hours these days, so choose the day and time you'd like to visit and save time by printing your tickets at home. Don't forget to visit the Gift Shop to pick up a memento or some postcards for your far-flung friends.

Keep cool and watch the penguins cruise their 150-thousand gallon exhibit!

Let sea breezes ruffle your hair with an eye-popping trip to Stellwagen Bank to see whales, seabirds and other sea creatures. If you follow the Whale Watch Log, you'll know the action has been spectacular! So get out there with the New England Aquarium Whale Watch and Boston Harbor Cruises. Boats leaves several times each day (weather permitting) all summer long—and boats can sell out quickly. Learn more and grab your tickets today!

Head out on a New England Aquarium Whale Watch to see the huge buffet and all the whales coming to feast

Another great way to escape is a cinematic safari at the Simons IMAX Theatre. Swish through the jungles of Madagascar in search of lemurs in Island of Lemurs: Madagascar 3D (don't miss the trailer). Glide through tropical reefs with a Journey to the South Pacific 3D and get to know one of the blue planet's most feared predators in Great White Shark 3D (and find out why these amazing animals need our help)!

A scene from the captivating Island of Lemurs: Madagascar 3D

When you're ready to digest all you've seen and experienced, order up some refreshing drinks and nibbles at the Aquarium's waterfront eatery The Reef. Serving up ocean-friendly seafood and kid-approved vittles, there's something for everyone at this seasonal joint—including lovely views of the city skyline and the hustle and bustle of the waterfront.

The California sea lions in the marine mammal center are always up to something!

The summer is young. Let us help you explore our blue planet—it'll be fun!

Members! Don't forget to use your discounts on the whale watch, IMAX tickets and food at the Harbor View Café and The Reef.