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Title: Discover the Wonders of Achill Island at the Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre

Excerpt: Experience the rich history and marine life of Achill Island at the Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre.

The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Achill Island in County Mayo, Ireland. As the first and only aquarium in Mayo, it offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages. Located in Keel, the Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre provides an immersive experience that combines history and marine life.

Visitors can discover the rich history of Achill Island through their 18 history boards, replica boley house, and audio-visual room. The visitor center tells the stories of religion, emigration, employment, hard times, and good times that shaped the island's past. Visitors can also learn about the special relationship between Achill Island and the American artist Robert Henri, who painted portraits of local children in the 1920s.

Achill Island Keem Beach Co. Mayo - Image Courtesy Chaosheng Zhang Twitter: @ZhangChaosheng

Achill Island Keem Beach Co. Mayo - Image Courtesy Chaosheng Zhang Twitter: @ZhangChaosheng

The aquarium is stocked with fish native to Achill Island's waters and beyond, including rare lobsters, baby sharks, and tropical and Amazonian fish. Visitors can also meet Smurfette, Sapphire, Rusty, Charlie, and Ray-chel, the aquarium's exciting sea creatures. The interactive touch tanks allow visitors to get up close and personal with the marine life and learn about the fishing traditions and seasons.

The Aquarium & Visitor Centre is wheelchair accessible and accepts credit cards. Visitors can also find the perfect souvenir in their gift shop, which serves delicious cups of Cosmic Coffee.

For those who love marine life, the Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre is a must-visit destination. The aquarium is home to a variety of fish species, including Nemo and Dory, as well as rare lobsters and baby sharks. The knowledgeable and passionate aquarium guides are always on hand to answer any questions and provide visitors with an unforgettable experience.

The visitor center at the Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre is equally fascinating, with its 18 history boards that tell the stories of Achill Island's past. Visitors can learn about the Kirkintilloch Tragedy, the history of the Great Western Greenway, and the special relationship between Achill Island and Robert Henri, among other things. The replica boley house modeled after the Deserted Village houses is a highlight, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience what life was like for the people who lived there.

The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre is also an ideal destination for families with children. The interactive touch tanks allow children to get hands-on with the marine life, while the shipwreck tank is sure to ignite their imagination.

After exploring the aquarium and visitor center, visitors can grab a cup of Cosmic Coffee in the gift shop and browse the selection of souvenirs. The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre is the perfect place to spend a rainy day or to escape the summer heat.

In addition to the Aquarium & Visitor Centre, there are plenty of other things to see and do on Achill Island. The stunning Keem Bay is a must-visit destination, with its turquoise waters and golden sand beach. The historic Kildownet Castle is also worth a visit, as is the breathtaking Great Western Greenway, a 42-kilometer trail that runs from Westport to Achill Island.

Overall, the Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre is a fantastic destination for anyone visiting Achill Island. With its fascinating history and marine life, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

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