Letters: On "A: Everything. Q: What's Wrong With the Cleveland Aquarium?

[Editor's Note: Last week's Cleveland People issue featured 30 profiles and 30 photographs of fine folks in our city. The photography was done by Frank Lanza. We failed to cite Frank's important role in the feature, which we deeply regret. Do look him up and hire him the next time you need professional pictures taken. He's the best.]

The aquarium has no endowment, as do most museums in Cleveland, and no tax money to back it up as the Zoo does, it being part of the Metroparks. That's why the admission is so high. We are pretty spoiled here in Cleveland. Still, I agree it is underwhelming. The Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is fantastic, is $34.95 for adults and $21.95 for children. The Shedd Aquarium mentioned above, is $28.95 for adults and $19.95 for children for admission to the entire facility — the $8 admission is for only a small part of the aquarium. The Georgia Aquarium, described as the largest aquarium in the world, is $34.95. The impression I get is that aquariums, in general, are very expensive to operate!

— Squid

Another problem is that you also have to pay for parking! I went once and that's all I will go. By the time four adult tickets, two children's tickets and parking was paid for, I spent well over $100 for less than an hours enjoyment. If you could even call it enjoyment. More like pure boredom. Even the kids didn't really enjoy it. I like the aquarium at the zoo better.

—Cheryl

Asking premium prices for something nice is fine...placing it in an area of urban desolation where the only other nearby attraction is a strip club seems somewhat short sighted. At least I know if I go the place will more than likely be all to myself.

— Michael Walsh

$20 is a bit much to walk through an oversized fish tank. $80 for a family of four? Pass.

— Tim Johnson