Ever since Sea World left the Midwest (aka Aurora, OH), I haven’t been the same. I grew up at that park and have very fond memories with Shamu and the rest of his aquatic crew.

My love for the water has been a consequence of growing up in a family that has always owned boats and other types of watercraft. I would NEVER live in a city that isn’t situated near a large body of water — ever.

While you cannot really snorkel in our great lake, I’ve had the opportunity to view a little under the sea action in places like Hawaii and Brazil. I cannot tell you how much excitement I get when I see that whole new world (cue Little Mermaid reference) that makes up the majority of our planet.

Unfortunately, CLE does not have one facility dedicated to underwater life, other than those found at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Plans for a waterfront aquarium near the Rock Hall once lived on a list of lakefront development concepts, which in my opinion would have been ideal. However, we all know how these grandiose plans and renderings soon become only imaginary dreams that will most likely never see the light of day.

HOWEVER, I am happy to say that CLE will soon see our very own aquarium located right in lovely downtown. Located in the FirstEnergy Powerhouse, The Greater Cleveland Aquarium is scheduled to open in early 2012 and will feature over 40 tanks of fresh and salt water species.

Personally, I am really pumped about the “SeaTube” exhibit, which is literally a tunnel of glass where visitors will walk through providing a more believable underwater experience.

I am thinking (and hoping) companies and individuals will be able to rent the space for private events. Wouldn’t it be great to host a benefit or even your 30th birthday party under the sea!? A boy can only dream…