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Upscale Aquatics

About

For those seeking a piece of the ocean in the heart of North Carolina, Upscale Aquatics is a true discovery. It is more than just a store; it is a full-scale exhibition of exotic aquatic flora and fauna located in the suburbs of Charlotte. If you appreciate the beauty of the underwater world, this spot in the USA should definitely be on your must-visit list.

Upscale Aquatics. Source: Kupi.com AI

Specializing in rare and unusual species, Upscale Aquatics offers its guests a chance to immerse themselves in a tropical atmosphere. It features exotic corals, unique marine and freshwater fish, and rare macroalgae. The cleanliness of the tanks and the meticulous care for the inhabitants make this place popular not only with professional aquarists but also with casual tourists looking to admire nature's vibrant colors.

As part of the well-known Tropical Fish Company family, the establishment maintains the highest quality standards. Visitors value this location for the opportunity to see specimens that are almost impossible to find in regular pet stores. The tranquil atmosphere and the staff's professional approach turn a simple visit into a fascinating journey through the depths of the world's oceans.

Contacts

To get in touch with Upscale Aquatics or check the availability of specific fish species, you can use the contact details provided below. The store is active on social media, where you can follow Tropical Fish Company for updates on new arrivals of rare specimens.

Address 18926 Statesville Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031, USA
Phone +1 704-727-3133
Official Website upscaleaquaticsnc.com
Google Maps Open map

What to Do

Inside Upscale Aquatics, visitors can enjoy the captivating experience of watching underwater life unfold. You can spend time examining an impressive selection of marine fish, invertebrates, and live corals. Many guests come here simply for inspiration, to see how professionally designed aquariums can become true living pieces of art.

For aquarium hobbyists, this is the perfect place to upgrade their home reef. Here, you can purchase not only rare fish but also high-tech equipment and receive expert advice on species compatibility. The staff is renowned for their expertise; they are happy to answer questions from both beginners and advanced aquarists.

Special attention should be paid to the exotic specimens and macroalgae, for which enthusiasts are willing to travel hundreds of kilometers. Even if you don't plan on making a purchase, visiting the store is a great educational experience that allows you to learn more about the fragile balance of coral reefs.

Getting There

Upscale Aquatics is located at 18926 Statesville Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031. This is in the scenic Lake Norman area, which is situated very close to the major metropolitan hub.

If you are planning to travel by car from downtown Charlotte, take I-77 North to the Statesville Rd exit. The drive usually takes about 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic. Convenient visitor parking is available right at the store.

For those preferring taxis or services like Uber/Lyft, the trip from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) takes approximately the same amount of time, covering a distance of about 40 km. Public transport to this suburb is limited, so using a personal or rental car is the most comfortable option for tourists.

History & Facts

While the detailed historical records of Upscale Aquatics itself are not public knowledge, its development is closely tied to the growing popularity of the aquarium hobby in North Carolina. The store has become a vital part of the Tropical Fish Company ecosystem, earning a reputation as one of the best spots in the region for exotic fish enthusiasts.

The location in the suburb of Cornelius, near Huntersville, is significant. This area of Mecklenburg County has traditionally attracted water recreation lovers due to its proximity to Lake Norman. It is likely this "aquatic" regional atmosphere that contributed to the success of this specialized center.

Over the years, Upscale Aquatics has evolved from a simple retail outlet into a true community. Its high trust rating among visitors and emphasis on maintaining immaculate cleanliness in its tanks have made it an important point on the tourist map of Charlotte's suburbs.

Time Needed

For a casual look at the amazing inhabitants of Upscale Aquatics, most visitors find 1–2 hours to be sufficient. This is plenty of time to leisurely stroll between the rows of aquariums, admire the vibrant corals, and observe the behavior of rare fish.

If you are a dedicated hobbyist or plan to get detailed advice on setting up your own aquarium, we recommend allocating 2–3 hours. Conversations with the expert staff can take some time, as they are always ready to share valuable tips on caring for complex ecosystems.

Working Hours

Upscale Aquatics is open to visitors daily, though the weekend schedule differs from weekdays. From Monday to Saturday, the doors are open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

On Sunday, there is a shortened schedule: you can visit the display and make purchases from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. It is recommended to check ahead by phone before visiting, as hours may change during public holidays.

Nearby

A visit to this aquatic destination can easily be combined with outdoor activities in the surrounding area. Exploring this part of the state offers plenty of impressions, especially if you are traveling with family or looking for outdoor entertainment.

Name Distance (km)
Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park 3.3
Frankie's of Charlotte 11.8
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Concord 19.1
Big Air Trampoline Park - University City Blvd 22.5
DEFY Charlotte 23.0
Ray’s Splash Planet 26.1
Big Air Trampoline Park 38.8
Carowinds 41.5
Carolina Harbor 41.8
Sky Zone Trampoline Park 41.9

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