








The Ark Pet Shop in Merrillville, Indiana has built a devoted following that stretches well beyond the immediate area — some customers drive an hour and a half just to browse their tanks. Walking in, the store feels almost zoo-like, with rows of beautiful, well-maintained aquariums packed into a compact but densely stocked space. The sheer volume of livestock and supplies crammed into The Ark consistently surprises first-time visitors, and the breadth covers both freshwater and saltwater fish along with reptiles and small animals.
What sets The Ark apart in northwest Indiana is the health of their livestock. Multiple reviewers specifically note that the fish they bring home arrive healthy and stay that way — a claim not every local shop can make. Part of this reputation comes from the store's practice of sourcing from local breeders, which supports the regional aquarium community and tends to produce hardier animals already acclimated to local water conditions.
The aquarium displays themselves are beautifully kept, serving as both sales tanks and inspiration for hobbyists looking to elevate their own setups. The staff, including longtime employee James, draws frequent praise for their depth of knowledge across both freshwater and saltwater species. They're the kind of team that can walk you through the specifics of a new tank setup or help troubleshoot a problem you've been struggling with.
The store stocks a comprehensive range of supplies — filters, food, medications, décor — so most customers leave with everything they need in a single trip. Prices run slightly higher than big-box competitors, but regulars consider it a fair trade for healthy animals and informed guidance. The store is small, so expect close quarters during busy times, especially with kids in tow.
A handful of reviewers have noted occasional friction with staff, and the saltwater side has drawn a few complaints about fish health, so it's worth asking about their guarantee policy before purchasing. For aquarium hobbyists across the greater Merrillville and northwest Indiana region, The Ark remains a cornerstone destination — a real, independently owned pet store with living inventory you can actually inspect before buying.
Marcie Wentworth
We are about an hour and a half away from The Ark, but it is so worth the drive! Great displays, healthy fish, great selection, and friendly staff!
Kentrell G
25 reviews
Always great
Randy B
6 reviews
Healthy fish. Store very small. Good selection. Prices higher than everywhere else. Maybe worth it for healthy fish. Haven't purchased fish from there but will be soon.
matt spiess
6 reviews
Great place
Sandra Krepel
20 reviews
Staff is very helpful. I found everything needed for my fishtank.
michael flatt
34 reviews
Quality fish, large selection and good customer service.
Leeland Faris
I want to say that don’t let the prices fool you for any of their animals every lizard, fish, and rodent I’ve gotten has been quality and never came home sick. (except maybe car sick) and every employee is very knowledgeable about the animals. My go to place 👍
Jon Rigas
47 reviews
Absolutely fantastic! One of the only real pet stores left. So many animals/fish. So much knowledge and very helpful. Love this place!
Margie Napier
18 reviews
Am very impressed with how much stock they have. They had ABSOLUTELY everything I needed!
Joe Martin
2 reviews
Nice place good people extremely knowledgeable about there animals
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (219) 769-0661 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting The Ark Pet Shop.
Take control of your listing to update info and respond to reviews.
Claim This ListingFind on Map
2400 W Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, IN 46410
February 7, 2026
Verified Data
Information verified through Google Places API and community contributions.
Other aquarium shops nearby worth checking out