House Of Tropicals in Glen Burnie, Maryland is one of those stores that swallows your afternoon whole. Walk in for one thing and you'll find yourself drifting past rows of freshwater tropicals, saltwater tanks shimmering with corals and marine fish, and a live plant selection that draws planted-tank enthusiasts from well beyond the Baltimore metro area. " The sheer scale is the first thing that hits you.
The freshwater section is enormous, stocking everything from flowerhorns and plecos to stingrays and species you rarely see outside specialty importers. Their saltwater side carries a full line of marine fish and corals, and they maintain a pond section for customers building outdoor setups. One regular watched a baby shark hatch from its egg over multiple visits.
That kind of spectacle isn't something you stumble across at a chain pet store. Axolotl keepers will find a knowledgeable crew here — one customer recounted spending an hour with a staff member named Kaylie, who helped them build a complete axolotl setup from scratch at prices that undercut competitors. The store also sells live blackworms (generally clean, per regulars), frozen and live feeder rodents for reptile owners, and a full range of dry goods including substrates, lighting, and enclosure accessories for snakes and tarantulas.
The staff's depth of knowledge is a recurring theme in reviews. Employees share what they do in their own home tanks, discuss cycling, and offer genuine guidance. That said, some visitors have reported inconsistent service — a few encounters with brusque or dismissive employees have left a mark.
With a store this busy, waits for help can stretch. House Of Tropicals runs periodic sales worth watching for, and the pricing on fish and supplies is generally considered fair for the quality. Just know: there's no public restroom, and the parking lot entrance near the back intersection demands caution.
Come ready to browse — this place rewards the unhurried visit.
KelseyArin
6 reviews
Zero stars if possible- the entire staff is RUDE. Customer service is beyond terrible. If you all hate your job so much, choose a different career path.
Allyson M
14 reviews
Only giving the store a 3 after my second visit, which was yesterday evening. My first visit was absolutely wonderful and the employee who helped me by was so knowledgeable and friendly. I've only owned goldfish in the past, but have recently taken interest in tropical fish. I'm still in the learning phase, and I've enjoyed visiting this store to learn about various species. Again, the 3 star review is only due to my visit last night. Had my visit last night been like my first, I would've rated higher. At any rate, I was browsing in the store last night when I came across a tank with several tropical fish and an eel. One of the fish appeared to be lodged in a tank decoration. I observed it for a bit and was concerned. When I finally managed to track down an employee, I said I'm concerned about this guy, is he okay? Before I could even get the last word out of my question, this employee cuts me off and says "Do you have a large tank?!" The way he said it was almost like he was speaking to me as if I was a child being disciplined. I responded with "no, I'm asking if this fish is okay?" He didn't even look at the fish or the tank I was pointing to and said "yeah if you have a large tank, he will act completely different. So do you have one?!" It was one of the most bizarre store encounters I've had. Really rubbed me the wrong way, as it seemed like there was no care whatsoever for the animals. Management should definitely reconsider having this employee facing customers and caring for the animals for that matter.
Melissa WhitakerMiller
8 reviews
U can buy pets, but I bought mice for my snake
Sidney Johnson
3 reviews
Unfortunately I will be making the drive to another fish shop instead of this one. I had some malfunctions with my debit card at checkout and the manager was arguing with the girl trying to help me saying that declined means I don't have any money on the card and went out of his way to publicly embarrass me about it, assuming that was the only reason my card could not work. He was dismissing me and not helping anymore because he was very set on me not having money. Completely inappropriate and one of the rudest experiences I've had. The owner should definitely consider the type of people they have representing the shop.
A M
9 reviews
Love this place! They have so many exotic pets and the staff are awesome and knowledgeable!
Brandon Miller
63 reviews
Best tropical fish selection within hundred miles
rashawn moore
11 reviews
Staff very friendly, extensive inventory. Best prices in town. Or if you just need to breath and refocus I'll go in and look at the wide array of inventory.
Larry Holt
174 reviews
Large selection.
Adrian
74 reviews
We come here to buy live rats for our snake; a Red Tail Boa Constrictor. They are a good price and we are in and out. I do recommend this place for your aquatic needs. The only thing for me is the drive but live feeder rats are hard to find; so we take the drive to feed our pet.
steven latchaw
264 reviews
Huge selection of fish, plants, animals. Generally competent staff. Prices are what I would expect from quality I get from the establishment
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (410) 761-1113 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting House Of Tropicals.
Phone
(410) 761-1113Website
houseoftropicals.net/Address
7389 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Take control of your listing to update info and respond to reviews.
Claim This ListingFind on Map
7389 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Glen Burnie, MD 21061
February 7, 2026
Verified Data
Information verified through Google Places API and community contributions.
Other aquarium shops nearby worth checking out