More than 1,000 of its denizens are featured in the aquarium’s exhibits, including harbor seals, river otters, sharks and a wide variety of fish.

And if that still isn’t enough incentive to go, here’s more: aside from the multitude of animal exhibits, the aquarium also offers many activities that guarantee a fun and adventurous learning experience for all ages.

Take, for example, “Deep Sea: The Ride.” On this simulated submarine adventure, visitors descend 9,000 feet and come face to face with creatures of the deep, including a sperm whale and a giant squid.

And be sure to leave time for the IMAX Theatre. At eight stories wide and six tall, the screen puts you into the middle of the action. The two films currently in rotation are “Mystery of the Nile” and “Vikings: Journey to New Worlds.”

But wait, there’s more.

At the aquarium’s boat shop, you can discover the art of boat-building through courses and hands-on activities. A variety of after-school programs are offered as well.

But perhaps one of the best-loved attractions at the aquarium are the harbor seals, especially during their scheduled feeding sessions. Children and adults alike seem to really enjoy the cute and clever tricks the seals perform between mouthfuls. The seals’ level of intelligence is remarkable. Not only do they perform flawlessly in front of hundreds of fixated eyes, but they do it with such ease. Forget stage fright — this all-female bunch seems to thrive on the attention. And who wouldn’t? If I were that talented, I would, too.

The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is open every day (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Rates vary depending on what you want to do, but general admission is $10.50 for adults, $9.50 for seniors 62 and over and $8.50 for children ages 2 through 12.

For more information, call 852-0700 or visit www.maritimeaquarium.org.