More Than a Vote: How AZA Helps Determine USA’s Top Aquarium 

Published April 23, 2026

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums is an independent nonprofit that evaluates facilities against rigorous professional standards. Participation is voluntary, but earning accreditation requires exceeding federal and state regulations. Only a limited number of institutions nationwide meet these expectations. 

Accredited aquariums undergo comprehensive reviews every five years, including on-site inspections by professionals from other AZA institutions. Evaluations cover animal care, veterinary services, habitat design, enrichment, conservation efforts, ethical animal acquisition, staff training, safety protocols, and long-term financial stability. 

Education and conservation are central to the process. Exhibits and programs must present accurate, science-based information while encouraging meaningful guest engagement. Institutions are also expected to actively support wildlife conservation through research, funding, or collaborative species programs. 

For visitors, AZA accreditation provides assurance that an aquarium operates responsibly, transparently, and with a long-term commitment to animals and the natural world. 

How AZA Standards Shape the Guest Experience 

Although accreditation focuses on behind-the-scenes operations, its influence extends directly to the visitor experience. Aquariums that meet AZA standards tend to emphasize thoughtful exhibit design, cohesive storytelling, and immersive environments that place animals within broader ecological contexts. 

That approach helps build trust, which means visitors are more likely to view the experience as credible and worthwhile, playing a significant role in recommendations and return visits. These same qualities often influence how the public votes in national recognition programs. 

AZA Accreditation and America’s Best Aquarium 

USA Today’s America’s Best Aquarium award is determined through public voting after an initial nomination by experts. Unlike professional accreditation, the award reflects how effectively an aquarium connects with its audience rather than how it operates internally. 

Factors such as exhibit scale, visual impact, clarity of messaging, and overall flow play a major role in how guests vote. While AZA accreditation is not required for nomination, many top-ranked aquariums hold this status. That overlap suggests institutions built on strong professional standards are often better positioned to deliver consistently high-quality experiences.

Where does Wonders of Wildlife fit in? 

Wonders of Wildlife is among the 10% of the total 2,800 zoos and aquariums nationwide that are accredited by the AZA. That framework informs daily operations, from animal care and conservation planning to exhibit development and staff preparation. 

Its expansive layout and immersive habitats allow guests to explore a wide range of freshwater and saltwater ecosystems in a single visit. Displays emphasize connections within the natural world rather than isolated species, closely aligning with AZA’s educational mission. 

This foundation has likely contributed to the aquarium’s success in America’s Best Aquarium voting. Wonders of Wildlife has earned the title seven times, more than any other facility, reflecting sustained visitor confidence and support. You can continue that legacy by voting WOW for ABA! 

A Vote Informed by Trust 

Public recognition and professional accreditation serve different but complementary roles. One reflects how an aquarium resonates with visitors. The other ensures the institution operates responsibly and with long-term purpose. 

Together, they offer a more complete picture of excellence in today’s aquariums, where meaningful guest experiences are grounded in conservation, education, and responsible animal care.