Are children allowed at the Shark Center?

Yes, visitors of all ages are welcome, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Is there parking available on site?

Yes, the center offers on-site parking, but spots are limited and best accessed by arriving early.

Can I bring food or drinks inside the exhibit hall?

No, food and beverages are not permitted inside to protect the exhibits.

How long does a typical visit last?

Most visitors spend between one and two hours moving at their own pace through exhibits.

Are guided tours available?

This is a self-guided experience, but educators are present to answer questions during your visit.

Is the Shark Center open year-round?

Hours vary seasonally, so it’s best to check availability before planning your visit.

Great White Shark Experience at Atlantic White Shark Conservancy

Chatham, Massachusetts, located on the southeastern tip of Cape Cod, is more than just a quaint coastal town known for its beaches and maritime charm—it’s home to the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy’s Shark Center. This unique facility offers visitors a rare window into the life of one of the ocean’s most formidable residents: the Great White Shark. Through a self-guided admission to the Shark Center, guests of all ages step into a world rich with interactive exhibits, educational videos, and the latest research uncovering the mysteries of these apex predators.

The Shark Center is strategically positioned near the waters where the Great Whites make seasonal appearances, making it a vital hub for public education and local conservation efforts. Inside the exhibit hall, visitors trace the natural history of white sharks in the Atlantic, learning about their migration patterns, feeding behaviors, and the important role they play in maintaining balanced marine ecosystems. From detailed underwater footage to hands-on stations, the experience goes well beyond typical museum fare and invites an engaging dialogue between science and the public.

Families will find the center especially appealing, as kids can absorb complex ecological concepts through accessible, interactive displays, while live educators are on hand to answer questions throughout the visit. Practical features like on-site parking, limited hourly entry to prevent overcrowding, and a focus on conservation ethics underscore the center’s commitment to a thoughtful visitor experience.

Chatham’s Shark Center stands out not just as an educational stop, but as a crucial voice in fostering ocean stewardship in the Northeast. It bridges scientific research with community engagement, making it a must-visit for anyone curious about marine life or seeking a meaningful way to connect with Cape Cod’s natural heritage beyond the shoreline.

About Atlantic White Shark Conservancy

Atlantic White Shark Conservancy is a Chatham, Massachusetts nonprofit dedicated to white shark research, public education, and conservation. The organization operates the Shark Center Chatham and runs a range of field experiences, public programs, and special events that connect visitors with Cape Cod’s marine ecosystem.

On-water options include private and open-boat white shark charters—listed as Private White Shark Charter BWE, Private White Shark Charter OHM, Open Boat White Shark Charter OHM, and Open Boat White Shark Charter BWE—designed for observation, education, and conservation support. Multi-species field days such as Expedition 2025: White Sharks and Whales partner with other organizations to expand learning opportunities.

Public programs at the Shark Center Chatham include General Admission self-guided exhibits, Story Time for ages 3–6, Family Program: Sharks 101, and seasonal events like Fintastic Pumpkin Decorating, Trick-or-Treat, and Spooktacular Story Time. Education offerings extend to Shark STEM Day: Shark Ecology and an Education Dissection Demonstration featuring a spiny dogfish to explore shark anatomy.

Accessibility and inclusion are addressed through Sensory Friendly Time for families with disabilities, a calm, ADA-compliant program limited to 25 visitors that provides reduced sensory stimulation and networking opportunities.

All programs emphasize science-based interpretation, conservation messaging, and hands-on learning. Visitors and partners seeking guided field experiences, family-friendly museum visits, or focused educational workshops will find clear program descriptions, scheduled events, and opportunities to support shark research and protection in Cape Cod waters. The conservancy publishes research updates, hosts trained educators, and follows safety protocols for responsible wildlife viewing and community engagement programs.