Tropic Isle Aquarium in Framingham, Massachusetts has been a fixture of the MetroWest fishkeeping scene for decades — the kind of store people drive 90 minutes to visit and keep coming back to for twenty years. Walk through the door and the warmth hits you immediately (literally — several reviewers recommend layering down), along with a greeting from staff who seem genuinely eager to help, even when the place is packed. The selection is what draws the crowds.
Both freshwater and saltwater livestock fill rows of clean, well-maintained tanks, and the variety runs deep — from cichlids and endlers to yellow Coris wrasses and mystery snails, with a shrimp selection that tempts even cautious hobbyists. The live plant and hardscape offerings round out the inventory for planted tank enthusiasts, and the dry goods section covers everything from fish food to full aquarium setups. Their online roster gets regular updates, so you can check stock before making the trip.
Owner Kathleen (Katie to regulars) is a constant presence and a big part of what makes the store feel personal rather than transactional. Staff members like Alec earn praise for walking first-time tank owners through the entire setup process — from cycling to stocking — with patience and real expertise. One customer learned their vegetable-eating fish would happily munch romaine lettuce instead of pricey seaweed, the kind of practical, money-saving tip that builds trust.
Multiple reviewers single out the care given to the animals themselves, noting that even the bettas look healthy and well-kept. Prices are consistently described as reasonable, and the store stocks harder-to-find items that keep experienced hobbyists loyal. The return policy requires a water sample and proof within 48 hours, which is worth knowing upfront.
A few customers have reported disease issues — camallanus worms in livebearers, a bacterial infection introduced by a saltwater wrasse — so quarantine-minded fishkeepers should plan accordingly. For the depth of selection, quality of livestock, and genuine helpfulness of the staff, Tropic Isle remains one of the strongest aquatics destinations in Massachusetts.
G F
20 reviews
Great place for salt water and fresh water fish
Lam Vu
70 reviews
When you first walk in staff immediately greet you and ask if you need anything even if they are super busy! Amazing selection and I appreciate that they update their roster online. It is very warm in there so make sure you layer down so you don't pass out looking at all the cool stuff
Hannah Brown
Fantastic place! Great selection of fish and plants and super knowledgeable staff. I've recently set up my first fish tank and the staff here has been so incredibly helpful throughout the entire process - specific huge thanks to Katie and Alec for answering my many, many questions and helping me fix any tank issues I've had! Highly recommend.
Lucas Wolbach
3 reviews
Can’t say enough about this place. I’m very new to the hobby and I won’t go anywhere else for fish or supplies anymore. Tons of options, well organized, and staff is very knowledgeable and helpful. Definitely go visit!
Randall Denny
32 reviews
Awesome selection of fish, plants, you name it. Very knowledgeable , helpful staff.
Melvyn Grimard
5 reviews
Place is wonderful but has a very rude and kurt cashier. This is the second time I have left there frustrated and insulted. I left once with $150 worth of fish left on the counter due to his rudeness. Today I bought $300 worth of items. No coupon was given me and I drove 1.5 hrs to get there. Why they dont fire him I dont know. People on the floor tell you one thing and then this rude cashier gives you a different story and makes you feel anything but appreciated as a customer. I like Katie and will call her AGAIN to complain. Have shopped there often and spent alot of cash there. I may not go back for fear I may lose it with this young, rude man who works there. He is demeaning with his attitude is bad for business . I am a polite person. I am so angry . . Called to complain but was told it was all a misunderstanding. I will miss this place but there are other shops. Customers should be treated with RESPECT. Katie should teach her check out staff to be as courteous and respectful as she and her floor staff are. I am very disappointed that it was dismissed as a misunderstanding. I am not stupid and I know when I am being treated poorly. Any kind of courteous explanation by them would have made all well. They did not even give me a coupon for the fish I bought. I have shopped there for probably 20 years or more. I would NOT complain unless there was a solid reason. So much for Customer Appreciation.
Jimmy Nguyen
3 reviews
By far one of the best if not the best aquatics store in Massachusetts housing both fresh and salt water faunas
Doug
2 reviews
Great place, great selection, and super knowledgeable and helpful staff - normally I would give them a 5. Just lost most (8 of 9) of my tank of beautiful salt water fish in three days due to possible bacterial infection from a yellow Coris wrasse I bought from them. I don't have space for QT, but that I guess is my risk. Just a warning. (Katie - I called immediately when I realized what is happening. Not surprisingly, the Coris is alive and happy.)
Thomas Shea
5 reviews
used to go there as a kid with my dad. just went there Nov 15. place is every bit as great as it was, and of course now I know more. awesome selection. great service. Katie was amazing
Judith McDonough
7 reviews
People are nice
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (508) 875-5303 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Tropic Isle Aquarium.
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686 Worcester Rd, Framingham, MA 01702
February 7, 2026
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