SPECIAL EXHIBITION
Sharks! The Meg, The Monsters & The Myths
Dive into the Extraordinary World of Sharks
Embark on a Jawsome Adventure with Live Sharks, Ancient Behemoths, and Fascinating Shark Facts
We’re gonna need a bigger exhibit hall.
Debuting on a floor all to itself is Sharks! The Meg, The Monsters & The Myths. We’re making your dreams come true and bringing you up close and personal with live sharks for a hands-on experience that will be – dare we say – jawsome. You’ll get a chance to touch a shark and discover what makes these creatures unique – from bait balls to bioluminescence.
Further immerse yourself in the world of sharks as every order of shark known to mankind is represented within the exhibition, including a life-size model of the ancient behemoth, the Megalodon. And don’t forget to pick up a few Megalodon teeth of your own in the island shop.
Don’t miss out on the frenzy and purchase your tickets today!
Debuting on a floor all to itself is Sharks! The Meg, The Monsters & The Myths. We’re making your dreams come true and bringing you up close and personal with live sharks for a hands-on experience that will be – dare we say – jawsome. You’ll get a chance to touch a shark and discover what makes these creatures unique – from bait balls to bioluminescence.
Further immerse yourself in the world of sharks as every order of shark known to mankind is represented within the exhibition, including a life-size model of the ancient behemoth, the Megalodon. And don’t forget to pick up a few Megalodon teeth of your own in the island shop.
Don’t miss out on the frenzy and purchase your tickets today!
Open Today: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Plan A Visit Includes Permanent Exhibitions
See Admission Located in Lower Level
See Accessibility Buy Tickets
Please Note:
Your purchase of a ticket to Sharks! The Meg, The Monsters & The Myths includes general admission access to all Permanent HMNS Exhibit Halls. If you purchase Sharks! and a ticket to either Death by Natural Causes or King Tut, you can receive up to 50% off the price of either Death by Natural Causes or King Tut. Please note that this does not cover entry to the Cockrell Butterfly Center.
Thank You
Exhibition Highlights
Behemoth’s Bite
In the Jaws of Megalodon
Experience the primal dread of looking into the gaping maw of the ancient Megalodon. Imagine the raw power behind those enormous, serrated teeth, some reaching up to seven inches. This imposing beast, once ruling the prehistoric seas, could swallow a small car – a reminder of how terrifyingly majestic nature can be.
Interactive Encounters
Hands-On Exploration of Marine Life
Our touch tank brings an interactive dimension to your marine exploration. See live sharks, feel the surprising textures of mata rays, the armor-like surface of crabs, and the velvety resilience of starfish. This tactile experience serves as a compelling reminder of the variety and intricacy of evolutionary adaptations in the aquatic world.
Evolving Predators
Journey Through Shark Evolution
The history of sharks stretches back over 450 million years, far predating dinosaurs. Engage with the evolution of these remarkable creatures, from primitive forms to the refined hunters of today. Fossils and animations bring this deep past to life, igniting curiosity and wonder in future paleontologists.
Curious? Review the FAQ Guidelines
View All FAQFAQ
Do I need a separate ticket to see this exhibit?
Sharks! The Meg, The Monsters, & The Myths requires a special exhibit ticket. A Sharks! ticket will allow you access to the Permanent Exhibit Halls.
Do I have to go at a specific time?
Do you have live sharks?
Can I touch the sharks?
Is there a discount if I purchase Sharks!, King Tut and Death by Natural Causes exhibits for the same day?
Guidelines
Hand Cleaning Protocol
Rinse your hands from elbows to fingertips to prevent contamination of the tank with oils, fragrances, or lotions. Do not use soap before interacting with the animals. If a guest requests soap after touching the animals, direct them to the nearest restroom.
Tank Interaction Limit
Do not reach into the tanks past your elbow.
Animal Interaction Guidelines
Shark Tank: Use two fingers to gently touch the animal along the back, avoiding the head, gills, fins, and tail.
Invertebrate Tank: Use one finger very gently.
Prohibited Actions
Guests should NOT pick up any animal or objects from the tanks. Guests should not splash or agitate the water in the tanks.
Meet the Curators
Our curators’ combined expertise ranges from A to Z… from archaeology to zoology!
Nicole Temple
Curator of Carcharodon Chronicles
Nicole Temple, Vice President of Education, is the powerhouse behind “Sharks! The Meg, The Monsters & The Myths.” A seasoned educator and skilled curator, she transforms complex science into thrilling adventures for the 400,000+ students that HMNS receives annually. From the depths of curriculum development to the peaks of taxidermy, she’s as versatile as the sharks she brings to life.