Team ECCO Ocean Center & Aquarium

511 N Main St, Hendersonville, NC 28792, USA

Address:	511 N Main St, Hendersonville, NC 28792, USA
Phone:	+1 828-692-8386
Site:	teamecco.org
Rating:	3.9
Working:	Closed Closed 1–5PM 1–5PM 1–5PM 1–5PM Closed

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 7

Jessica Taylor

I went with my husband today to check our their facility. I assumed that they would be small but the animals would be well cared for and the staff would be knowledgeable. That couldnt be further from the truth! They are a small operation, conveniently located on Main Street in Hendersonville however it was absolutely tragic inside. The area in which the tanks are housed is a single room with a hodgepodge of setups. All were extremely outdated, many cracked and chipped and all were neglected. Most of the fish were in aquariums that were very undersized (Longhorn Cowfish in a 29gal) and were with inappropriate tankmates (such as seahorses with a Coris Wrasse and other aggressive fish). The tanks were also covered in algae, majanos and aiptasia. There was only one tank with some living coral such as mushrooms and a maxi mini carpet anemone. Most tanks were "decorated" with artificial plants and some fake corals as well, making everything look very unnatural and unappealing. Very few of the animals were labeled and the ones that were were mislabeled (a Stars and Striped labeled as a Dogface). We told the attendant and she gave us a blank stare. All the employees I saw were very young and knew little about the livestock or the systems. There are some freshwater turtles and lizards as well. They seem very out of place but they are better cared for than most of the other inhabitants. The bottom line is that this place is deplorable. You do not need an extensive knowledge of marine life to know that these creatures are in poor care and that the organization needs to step up to the responsibility of displaying and educating the public about these beautiful animals.

Maria Blevins

This is one of my favorite places to take my children. We went ahead and got a membership so we can go as much as we want. I enjoy taking my children here because it gives them a chance to enjoy science and nature in a safe place. It keeps them away from the television, internet, etc. It is set up great for moms and dads to be able to watch their kids with ease. I am hesitant on where I take all three of my kids on my own. I want to always have a view of all three of them at once. Well this place is set up just so. Moms and dads can come here and relax and have a great view of the whole aquarium and their childrens whereabouts. The lighting is dim, the music is relaxing, and there are plenty of seats to sit on while watching your children explore and learn. There are always plenty of volunteers available to answer questions and assist children with the touch tank and turtle exhibit. I always leave here feeling relaxed and happy that my children did something other than watch tv or play on an iPod or tablet. Brenda Ramer is doing an awesome job educating WNC on sea life. Her staff is awesome too!

Tryon Daily Bulletin

Great place to visit, and doesnt take long. Right on Main Street, just down from Masts. They have a wide variety of aquatic life and some specimens I havent seen in much larger attractions. They are great people, and often have special events. You can keep up with them on their website or facebook page. Great place for kids and adults both.

BILLY CORN

We had our sons 6th birthday party here and it was an awesome experience, the staff was great, everything was well planned by them we just needed to invite people and bring the food they took care of everything else. Highly recommended

Basic Gamer

this place sucks even when you try to have fun there is only like 20 animals you can see do not waste time trying to go to this place

Alisha Rumbos

The staff is knowledgeable, the sea life is interesting. Definitely worth a visit.

Devin Spielman

Small business. Has turtle panting