Lonnie Liston-Smith Marine Institute
The Lonnie Liston Smith Marine Institute, located in the Dukeside District of New Orange City, is a premier public aquarium and marine research facility dedicated to education, conservation, and the preservation of New Orange City’s waterways. Opened in 2021, the Institute is an architectural and engineering marvel, with most of its structure extending beneath the waters of Homestar Bay. It serves as both a museum and a research hub, offering visitors breathtaking views of the bay’s diverse marine life while promoting sustainable aquatic ecosystems.
Architecture & Design
The entrance to the Marine Institute is a 35-meter-tall building that stands as a gateway to the submerged wonders below. This building is split into two sections:
A grand atrium on the ground floor, where visitors are welcomed into an open space featuring information about the facility, exhibits, and upcoming events.
Administrative offices on the upper floor, where the Institute’s conservation and research teams operate.
Atop the entrance structure, a 15-meter-tall blue glass sculpture of a drop of water gleams in the sunlight, symbolizing the Institute’s commitment to aquatic preservation.
Upon entering, visitors descend a wide grand staircase leading underground to the main hall, where amenities include restrooms, a ticket booth, and concessions.
Admission Costs:
- Self-guided tours: $10 for adults ($3 for children)
- Guided tours: $30 for adults ($10 for children)
Exhibits & The AquaLoop® Underwater Experience
Beyond the main hall, guests enter the central cylindrical exhibition hall, a 30-meter-wide chamber capped with a fully transparent glass ceiling that provides a mesmerizing view of the water above. In this space, visitors engage with interactive screens, educational booths, and rotating exhibits that delve into the marine ecosystem of Homestar Bay and the Institute’s conservation efforts.
Branching off from the exhibition hall is the Institute’s signature attraction—the AquaLoop® Underwater Experience, a 400-meter-long submerged walkway that loops around Parkview Island, providing unparalleled views of the bay’s underwater habitats.
Key Features of the AquaLoop®:
Fully enclosed glass sections, allowing guests to be fully immersed in an underwater experience.
Dozens of learning stations, providing interactive displays on marine biodiversity, conservation, and the delicate balance of Homestar Bay’s ecosystem.
Views of vibrant marine life, including coral reefs, plant life, dolphins, and schools of fish, offering guests an up-close experience with nature.
Intersection with the underground convention center on Parkview Island, allowing visitors to extend their experience into educational programs, lectures, and exhibitions hosted at the island’s event space.
Mission & Research
While primarily a public aquarium and museum, the Lonnie Liston Smith Marine Institute also plays a vital role in scientific research and ecological restoration. The Institute is actively involved in:
- Monitoring and restoring New Orange City’s waterways, ensuring clean and thriving aquatic ecosystems.
- Educational outreach programs, aimed at schools, universities, and the general public to promote marine conservation.
- Collaborations with environmental organizations and city infrastructure groups, advocating for sustainable urban development in relation to the bay.
Public Access & Tourism
Unlike many research institutions, the Lonnie Liston Smith Marine Institute is entirely open to the public. Its welcoming atmosphere and engaging exhibits make it one of the most popular tourist attractions in New Orange City, drawing visitors from across the region.
Conclusion
The Lonnie Liston Smith Marine Institute is a shining example of modern marine conservation and public engagement. Through its stunning architecture, immersive exhibits, and dedication to the health of Homestar Bay, the Institute continues to inspire visitors to appreciate and protect the natural world. Whether exploring the AquaLoop®, gazing through the glass dome of the exhibition hall, or learning about sustainability efforts, guests leave with a deeper understanding of the importance of aquatic preservation in an ever-expanding urban landscape.