Aquarium Outfitters Carolina in Wake Forest has been a fixture of the Triangle-area aquarium scene for well over a decade, drawing hobbyists from as far as Holly Springs and Chapel Hill—many gladly driving 40 minutes or more to browse what multiple reviewers call one of the best selections in North Carolina. The store operates with a distinctly old-school local fish store feel. You could spend half an hour walking the aquarium section and still not see everything.
The freshwater selection is routinely praised as phenomenal, with everything from puffer fish and rainbow fish to axolotls available, plus a rotating variety of unique aquatic creatures that keep regulars coming back. The saltwater and reef side has recently expanded significantly, with noticeably clean tanks and healthy livestock. Reviewers who've kept corals and reef fish purchased here for months report thriving tanks and zero losses—a sharp contrast to their big-box pet store experiences.
The staff—Chris, Bryce, Jillian, and Evan are names that come up repeatedly—are clearly passionate about the hobby. They test water parameters, walk customers through proper stocking order for reef tanks, and ask the right questions to make sure fish and corals are suitable for each buyer's setup. Evan in particular earns praise for handling special orders, so if you're after something specific, he's the person to talk to.
The store also builds custom tanks, which sealed the deal for at least one loyal customer. Beyond aquatics, Aquarium Outfitters carries reptiles, live feeder insects, mice, and a full line of dry goods and equipment for both aquarium and terrarium setups. Live freshwater plants and corals round out the livestock offerings.
The atmosphere can feel a bit chaotic—this isn't a sterile showroom—and a handful of visitors have noted inconsistent greeting when walking in. But the depth of knowledge, the health of the animals, and the genuine care this family-run operation puts into its livestock make it a destination store for the Raleigh-Durham area. For reef keepers especially, the investment in quality livestock here pays dividends over the bargain-bin alternative.
Nate M
20 reviews
Bunch of cool fish, little bit chaotic. But again amazing fish collection, would recommend if you just want to see what they have.
Jane Sorrell
358 reviews
Top of the line aquarium needs! Helpful staff.
Cameron King
This is my favorite aquarium store with really unique aquatic creatures. Staff is super knowledgeable of their livestock. 10/10 recommended checking this place out
Matthew Grob (MattyG)
3 reviews
Very welcoming and informative staff and they have a phenomenal selection of freshwater fish! Best pet store in the area.
James Gassmann
13 reviews
They are very knowledgeable, friendly, and have a wide variety of supplies.
Jennifer Romano
24 reviews
Awesome people there and they will go above and beyond to help you and order something you need. Won't go anywhere else for all our pets.
DNA Cherry
69 reviews
The bad. Went in for the first time yesterday. Walked around the whole aquarium section and wasn't acknowledged that we were there. Not many people were there so it's not like they were busy. Employees were busy talking and laughing amongst themselves. Don't get me wrong I'm all up for enjoying work but acknowledge your customers especially new ones. We drove about an hour to get there because of what I read online reviews on customer service and the selection. We finally walked up and asked for some help and it seemed it was a bother to him. The good. A nice selection like bed seeing some things were a bit pricey. Loved seeing the different tank set ups unlike a general chain. Maybe like some bars they just want locals and regulars idk. I'll definitely check some other places.
Darrell Brumfield
24 reviews
Great place. Great variety of fish.
Irene Hudson
73 reviews
I cannot rave about this place enough. I made the terrible error that most beginner reef keepers make and bought fish from the big name pet store. I blew $100 and both fish I got died the next day, and of course, you don't get your money back. Needless to say if you try to cheap out, you will be paying double. My experience here was night and day. The employees were all so knowledgeable. They are also really kind and will educate you without judgment. They tested my water to make sure everything was okay and told me the order in which I should be adding things and everything I needed to be a good reef keeper. I have now been coming here for 6 months and my tank is thriving. Every single fish I have got from them and every coral has done amazing. They ask you all the right questions to make sure that the fish and corals you are selecting are suitable for your tank. It is evident that this is a family run business and how much they care about the animals. Reefing can be a very complex and expensive hobby.But with places like AO it becomes much easier. Don't make the same mistake that I did trying to save a few bucks, you will pay for it in the long run. For as long as I have a tank, AO will have my business.
John W
12 reviews
Aquarium Outfitters Carolina is an outstanding local shop. Chris, Bryce, and Jilian are knowledgeable, genuinely caring, and always willing to help. As someone new to the hobby, I really appreciate how patient and thorough they are in answering all my questions and making the experience enjoyable every time.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (919) 556-8335 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aquarium Outfitters Carolina.
Phone
(919) 556-8335Address
823 S Main St, Wake Forest, NC 27587
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823 S Main St, Wake Forest, NC 27587
February 7, 2026
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