Wanders and Wonders Brings Out Multi-Generational AARP Families

When longtime AARP member Jill Mitchum heard about the organization’s “Summer Wanders and Wonders” program, she didn’t hesitate to dive in. “This is such a fantastic benefit,” she said. “I brought along not only my grown grandkids, but my great-grands too!” Mitchum and her family were among several dozen “wanderers” who enjoyed an up-close look at the wonders of the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, thanks to the complimentary AARP program.

Caroline Tetschner

One of the center’s most popular attractions is the walk-through aquarium. Named the “Red Sea Tunnel” after the real-life waterway between Africa and Asia, the exhibit leads visitors through a 40-foot aquatic tunnel surrounded by an incredible variety of marine life—from colorful fish and coral to sharks gliding overhead. Seven-year-old Jason Bush, who visited with Mitchum, could barely contain his excitement as he explored the massive underwater world. “I feel like I’m swimming with the fishes!” he exclaimed before pointing out his favorite creature—the aptly named zebra shark.

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Caroline Tetschner

At the other end of the marine center, visitors can encounter another unforgettable attraction: the famous Komodo dragon exhibit. As an endangered species, only a few thousand of these massive reptiles remain in the wild on Indonesian islands, making an in-person encounter a rare experience. Fortunately, visitors to the aquarium can get remarkably close to these creatures, which can grow up to 10 feet long. AARP member Donald Davis brought his 82-year-old mother to the “Wanders” program, and she was fascinated. Cynthia Davis said, “I’ll never get to visit Indonesia, so it’s pretty neat to see them just a few feet from me!”

Caroline Tetschner

But on this day, the exhibit drawing the biggest crowds—especially the youngest visitors—was the popular Ray Touch Pool in the North Building. Featuring several species of stingrays, including Cownose, Southern and Atlantic stingrays, the interactive pool gives visitors the chance to reach into the water and gently feel the rays as they glide past. For many families, it was an experience they won’t soon forget.