








Walk into Aquatics & Exotics in Cincinnati and the first thing that grabs you is the shark tank in the back of the store — a massive display that draws kids, hobbyists, and curious passersby alike. Shark feedings happen at 2:30 PM on Saturdays, and it's exactly the kind of spectacle that sets this shop apart from anything else in the Cincinnati-NKY area. Alongside the sharks, you'll find a grouper, parrots, turtles, and an impressive roster of exotic aquatic species that you simply won't see at big-box pet stores.
The cichlid selection here earns particular praise from serious collectors, with one reviewer who owns over 40 tanks calling it their go-to location for all hobby needs. But Aquatics & Exotics isn't just about rare and flashy species. They stock live plants and the staff — especially Sky and Dom, two names that come up repeatedly — will actually teach you how to keep them alive.
Sky once corrected a customer's planting technique on a species that had failed from a chain store, explaining that burying the roots would cause rot. That plant is now thriving. The service side of the operation is equally impressive.
Trevor handled a full 55-gallon tank delivery up twisting stairs, transferred fish, performed a water change, and completed the entire setup in under 35 minutes. They offer aquarium cleaning services, consultations, and the kind of disease diagnosis that saves fish lives — Sky identified a bacterial-turned-fungal infection from a short video clip when a customer had been mistreating for ich. What resonates most across nearly 500 reviews is the genuine care for animal welfare.
The store closes every other day, reportedly for water changes and maintenance, and the tanks are consistently described as clean with healthy fish. Staff won't just sell you whatever — they'll redirect you to what actually works for your setup. One customer walked in looking for specific fish and left with something completely different, happier for the guidance.
Albino plecos, saltwater species, freshwater community fish — the selection runs deep, and the prices stay fair.
Sam
22 reviews
The staff was extremely knowledgeable. They were able to answer all my aquarium related questions.
nicki keen
21 reviews
Wow, this place is the real deal! Huge selection, large store, and centrally located. But the reason for this review is because of the people running the place. All of them very knowledgeable and just happy to be there. Genuinely an atmosphere of love for aquatics! While there you feel part of the family and all their enthusiasm is contagious. I will refer anyone that is interested in fish to definitely go to Aquatics & Exotics in the future.
Brandon Gary
56 reviews
What a great store. The fish selection is excellent and the staff/ownership have always been great to work with. They know their space if you listen to them you'll have a great experience!
Bill Rocklin
264 reviews
You can't beat this place! Great selection, knowledgeable staff, and they offer an aquarium cleaning service!
Kimberly J.
386 reviews
Great Place To Purchase And Consult With This Wonderful Staff! 🐬🦀🐟🐟. 👍🐟
bond woman
13 reviews
Dominic was very kind and helpful. The shark tank was cool!
Heather Arnold
13 reviews
The place is absolutely awesome! Very knowledgeable
Karen Sutton
167 reviews
Cool place
Josie Rose
7 reviews
The workers were very friendly and knowledgeable. The tanks were clean and have a lot of different types of fish you don't normally see. One of the best fish shops I have been to.
Vincente Benedett
37 reviews
Best aquarium shop in the area!
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (513) 521-5500 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aquatics & Exotics.
Take control of your listing to update info and respond to reviews.
Claim This ListingFind on Map
7513 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45231
February 7, 2026
Verified Data
Information verified through Google Places API and community contributions.
Other aquarium shops nearby worth checking out