Oakland's Tropical World is a small, independently-run pet store in Oakland, Maryland, operated by longtime owner Becky, who has kept the shop going largely on her own for many years. While it's a general pet store carrying everything from hamsters and reptiles to dog and cat food, the aquatics section holds its own with freshwater fish tanks stocked with live aquatic plants, shrimp, and various freshwater species including feeder fish. Reviewers who've taken the time to inspect the tanks have noted clean, plant-filled setups with healthy shrimp and minimal snail issues — a sign of decent aquarium husbandry.
The store packs an impressive amount of inventory into a compact space. Along with fish and aquarium supplies, you'll find snakes, lizards, turtles, hamsters, rats, and hermit crabs, plus a selection of rawhide-free dog treats and what loyal customers describe as top-of-the-line pet foods. It's the kind of place where you might walk in for cat food and walk out with a new fish after a 20-minute conversation with Becky about tank setup and care.
Becky's knowledge is the store's biggest asset. Multiple longtime customers — some going back 17 years — credit her advice for keeping their pets healthy. She's known for being direct and thorough when discussing animal care, particularly when it comes to startup supplies for new pet owners.
That directness can come across as brusque, and reviews are genuinely split on the customer service experience. Some find her candor refreshing and caring; others have had uncomfortable encounters. The store's physical space shows its age — the flooring has seen better days, and the tight layout means navigating aisles takes patience.
Animal enclosure sizes have drawn criticism from some visitors, particularly for larger reptiles. But for Oakland-area residents looking for freshwater fish, aquarium advice, and pet supplies without driving to a big-box retailer, Tropical World fills a real niche. Becky's decades of hands-on experience with both aquatics and reptiles makes this a resource worth knowing about if you're local.
Bry Sisler
Went into store about two months ago I was looking at her animals and the lady came straight at me yelling at me to get out of her store. Because she has no signs up anywhere saying not to look at them. The store is filthy and gross but she wants people to buy her overpriced items. Without knowing if the animals living or dead.
Tonia Collins
6 reviews
Becky is awesome always helpful when u ask questions
Pookietattoo
8 reviews
Ive been going to Tropical Word for 17 years. Ive bought so much stuff...reptiles, fish, rats...supplies food etc.... Ive never had an issue whatsoever. I bought both of my snakes when they were little 6 inch babies. Just about 12 years ago. And they are both still part of my Motley Crew of critters. If you think this little country Pet store is not to your standards....simple..go somewhere else....She is incredibly knowledgeable and sells top of line foods and products.. This small business has been run by the same Young Lady for....years and years....by herself mostly.. I give her KUDOS for her dedication...she obviously must really love what she does...because I somehow doubt she is an Millionaire Entrepreneur 😉.
Garland Lockhart
9 reviews
Small hometown store, Becky is very knowledgeable of the animals and fish that she sells. She has been spot on with all of the advice she has given me for my tank situation. She is my go to when it comes to my pets.
Anthony Collins
7 reviews
Becky really knows her stuff. Always has a wide range of foods for our cats and is always very knowledgeable and helpful.
Lucy Roo
20 reviews
Becky knows her business! Well kept tanks and animals!
Dustin walling
11 reviews
Way overpriced on feeder rats. Anywhere else I can buy a frozen jumbo feeder for $8 but some reason here sells frozen fancy rats for around $15.
charles
11 reviews
Moved to the area 5 years ago. First visit here yesterday. For as small as the store is, there is a ton of items. I was shocked. Was pleasantly surprised to hear that all of the dog treats they sell are rawhide free. Got a little fish, still doing fine, and some other items. Prices are what you would expect from a local store, fair. On the treatment of animals- Took a long time looking at every fish tank. Only found 1 dead and that was a feeder fish. All tanks, though not of swimming pool cleanliness, were totally more than acceptable for a more natural aquarium. All tanks clean and thriving with aquatic plants. Noticed zero snail infestations also. Shrimp healthy too. I don't know much about the reptiles but observed the owner feeding all of them when I came in. Had a little funk, but suspect that to be the little furry creatures. No cages appeared nasty or the like. There was what I would call a giant lizard that I feel should be in a larger enclosure. It appears to have outgrown its cage. Not really big on snakes so if they were there just walked past them without a care. Only thing I could really find to complain about was the flooring. I was waiting to fall through in some spots. Am pretty sure there's going to be no option but to replace it all soon. Call Crellin Handyman. All in all, found a owner that seems to care quite a bit and likes to talk about everything animals and a nice local pet store that I'll be returning to a lot more often.
Brian Davis
3 reviews
Horrible place made my 7 year old niece cry for asking a simple question worst customer service u can get Horrible place
Emily Longerbeam
2 reviews
The owner is very informative on all the critters in her shop. Highly recommend.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (301) 334-8195 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Oakland's Tropical World.
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104 E Liberty St, Oakland, MD 21550
February 7, 2026
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