During the holiday season, there are many opportunities to meet the big man in red, as he makes his way around Cincinnati. One of the most unique experiences takes place “under the sea” at the Newport Aquarium’s Water Wonderland. It turns out that that even though Santa Claus resides in the North Pole, he is quite the scuba diver and is anxious to meet your family this year!
Water Wonderland with Scuba Santa at Newport Aquarium takes place now through December 31st and is a one-of-a-kind holiday tradition in Cincinnati.
Newport Aquarium is transformed into a wintery water wonderland, with a few special additions to make a visit this time of year even more festive. We were able to pay a visit to Santa during one of his scuba diving adventures and my kids are still talking about the magical experience.
The Aquarium is a great spot to take your family all year long, but winter may just be the best time to
escape the cold and wander through an underwater getaway. You’ll love the tunnels that make you feel like you’re in the water with the various fish and sharks, the learning opportunities throughout, and the interactive play area. And during Water Wonderland, there are festive decorations in some of the favorite spots like Stingray Hideaway (the newest must-see exhibit!), Seahorses: Unbridled Fun, and Gator Alley.
But Scuba Santa is the highlight of the event and you need to make sure to visit between 11am and 4pm to have a chance with the jolly elf. You’ll find Santa and a couple of his elves inside the 385,000-gallon shark tank. You’ll get to walk right up and chat with Santa through a microphone and tell him what you want for Christmas. There are plenty of photo ops and an opportunity to purchase a professional, keepsake picture.
After your visit, be sure to stop by Penguin Palooza to write a letter to Santa and mail it to the North Pole!
Water Wonderland with Scuba Santa at the Newport Aquarium is open daily until December 31st from 10am to 6pm. If it’s not already, make this a holiday family tradition for the most unique visit with Santa you’ll find south of the North Pole! For more details, and more information about the Aquarium, check out its website here.
About Andrea:
A native Cincinnatian, Andrea has experienced life in all four corners of this city. After growing up on the west side, she headed north to attend Miami University, then moved east to Hyde Park and now lives in Northern Kentucky with her family.
When she’s not playing trains and doing the “hot dog dance” as a stay-at-home mom to her two toddlers, Andrea is busy writing for Cincinnati (and, ahem, Kentucky!) publications and brainstorming ideas for her next children’s book! With a newfound passion for fitness and overall health, she spends a lot of time at her family gym and loves to play outside.
Andrea worked in education for several years and has a special love for children’s literature. She loves showing her children all our city has to offer and enjoys sharing her finds with other parents. Her favorite spots include the Cincinnati Zoo (although she steers clear of the bird house), her local library and any playground.
