Let me start by saying I'm really glad to see the space in the Powerhouse being used for something that attracts people downtown. It's really encouraging to see this kind of economic activity going on in an area that desperately needs it.
However, this aquarium leaves a lot to be desired. I've visited the Shedd aquarium in Chicago, and the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, and both of them blow Cleveland's out of the water. The water in each tank is so cloudy that it makes it very difficult to appreciate the fish. The tanks themselves are small, and are obviously filled with fake coral and fish that you could mostly see just strolling through the aisles at PetsMart. They literally have entire tanks dedicated to goldfish, angel fish, and neon tetras! Seriously? I really expect more for my $20.
The whole place gives off the vibe of some derelict sideshow that you would see along the miles of mini-golf, gift shops and strip malls around Disney World, just hoping to feed off the sheer volume of people passing through, without regard to quality or building a reputation of their own. The throngs of people coming to this aquarium just goes to show how desperate our community is for this kind of attraction... it's a shame to see the product we are getting for the money.
To be honest, I would give this aquarium 2 stars if not for my appreciation of the positive economic impact it could have on the area. Unfortunately I will not be going back anytime soon.