It’s official, Wonders of Wildlife has been named America’s Best Aquarium for record-breaking 8th time. WOW is also recognized as the nation’s leading institution dedicated to honoring the traditions of hunters and anglers, our nation’s true conservationists
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (May 20, 2026) – Unprecedented in scale and scope, the not-for-profit Johnny Morris Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium is heralded as the most important natural history museum to open in America in more than a century. With 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and birds, the 350,000-square-foot complex is a wonder in and of itself. Wonders of Wildlife contains more than 1.5 miles of trails through authentic, immersive habitats and features 1.5 million gallons of freshwater and saltwater aquariums using innovative design and over-the-top creativity that transports guests to the heart of the ocean.
The annual awards recognize top aquariums nationwide, with nominees selected by experts and winners determined by public vote. Wonders of Wildlife (WOW) earned the top spot following a national voting competition with leading aquariums from across America.
“Being recognized by so many guests from across the country and around the world means a great deal to all of us, and more importantly we’re proud WOW is having a positive impact on the future of conservation,” said Johnny Morris. “We’re very grateful to everyone who voted for Wonders of Wildlife and all those who wake up every day with a passion to support conservation.”
Wonders of Wildlife – A gift from noted conservationist and Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris to the sportsmen and women of America
Located in the Missouri Ozarks, Wonders of Wildlife is a cornerstone of America’s Conservation Capital. Founded by Johnny Morris in partnership with more than 40 leading conservation organizations, Wonders of Wildlife is a not-for-profit conservation attraction dedicated to sportsmen and women and celebrating the rich history of hunting and fishing in America.
Since opening in 2017, WOW has welcomed nearly 9 million visitors from across America and around the world, with nearly half of the U.S. population within a day’s drive. Located adjacent to Bass Pro Shops’ national headquarters in Springfield, Mo., WOW attracts visitors from coast to coast.
More than an aquarium, Wonders of Wildlife is home to a world-class collection of museums and exhibits honoring the role sportsmen and women play in conserving fish, wildlife and the great outdoors, including the International Game Fish Association Hall of Fame, the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame, the American Museum of Fly Fishing, National Wild Turkey Federation Museum, Nature’s Best Photography and other nationally recognized institutions.
Conservation in action
Wonders of Wildlife plays an active role in conservation through rescue, rehabilitation, research and species recovery initiatives. In partnership with leading conservation organizations, wildlife agencies and academic institutions, WOW supports hands-on programs that protect wildlife and advance conservation.
Key efforts include the WOW Sea Turtle Center, established in 2020 in partnership with government agencies in response to increased cold-stunning events. The first facility of its kind in the Midwest, the center has a proven record of rehabilitating and releasing sea turtles back into their natural habitat.
WOW also advances conservation education with the Wonders of the Ozarks Learning Facility (WOLF) School, a nationally recognized program developed in partnership with Springfield Public Schools and the Missouri Department of Conservation to deliver conservation-focused curriculum to students locally and broadcast to classrooms around the world.
Opening Soon – World’s Largest Jellyfish Exhibit
Looking ahead, Wonders of Wildlife will introduce another world-class attraction, the all-new Jellyfish Abyss. This cutting-edge experience will feature one of the largest jellyfish exhibits in the world, combining immersive environments with innovative technology to bring guests closer than ever to these mysterious creatures.
Learn more and make plans to experience Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium by visiting www.wondersofwildlife.org.
