I visited SEA LIFE this past weekend with my girlfriend and had a great time. I am a huge fan of aquariums and, while this aquarium is not nearly as big as some of the major ones, it is right in the Charlotte area - not a four hour drive away. And it has all the sea creatures you would want to see (including an octo!). The exhibits are well-done and the staff were helpful and enthusiastic about the sea creatures. I espcially liked the up-close viewing areas (they are made for little kids, but I'm a kid at heart and crawled into them!). Prices are reasonable if you purchase online. The aquarium was busy but not crowded when I went on a Sunday afternoon. The computer tablets at each exhibit are also interesting. Definitely worth a 2hr visit if you like aquariums and are in the Charlotte area. Would recommend as a good second or third date idea. I also imagine it would be great for families with smaller children.