Atlantis No More, Aquarium Announces Name Change, Hotel Opening Date

As one door opens, as they say, another closes.

And as the owners of prepare for a July 1 opening of a 100-room hotel and adjoining exhibition center alongside the 10-year old aquarium, the owners are looking to reshape the brand of the aquarium to welcome the new 28,000 square-foot ballroom. In the process, the name "Atlantis Marine World" will be laid to rest.

Atlantis Marine World, meet the Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center.

“We are creating a unique destination,” said Bryan DeLuca, general manager of the LIA and EC. "“Our visitors enjoy seeing or experiencing something new each year, and, to that end, the aquarium has been launching something new each summer. But what better way to do that indefinitely, and reach outside the space limitations here at the aquarium, than create a new changing exhibit space next door?"

On July 1, the exhibition center and Hyatt Place are expected to open up to the public, part of a $24 million expansion on East Main Street and the Peconic River.

The first exhibit, titled 'Butterflies!,' will contain thousands of butterflies in an indoor garden.

“Eleven years ago, when we first opened, we envisioned that Atlantis would help promote economic impact for the town of Riverhead and Long Island, not only bringing new jobs, but also creating a true tourist destination,” said Jim Bissett, co-owner of Atlantis Holdings, the parent company of the aquarium and new hotel. “Now, with the openings of Long Island Exhibition Center, the Hyatt Place East End hotel, and the additions, we hope to inspire visitors to stay – and stay longer."