It was established in 1926 by the Bermuda government to enhance a growing tourism industry and "to inspire appreciation and care of island environments."

[citation needed] The Aquarium is just inside the main entrance building, and contains over 200 species of fish and invertebrates in many naturalistic displays.

[1] Replicating a local reef system and housing one of the largest living coral collections in the world, the zoo section includes mammals, birds, and invertebrates from island ecosystems worldwide.

The museum offers educational exhibits on Bermuda’s geology and marine biology, making it a comprehensive learning experience.

[1] Harbor seals and green sea turtles are housed in outdoor exhibits to the right and left of the main entrance.

[1] The facility participates in four Species Survival Plans (SSP) as of 2009: golden lion tamarin, Matschie's tree kangaroo, Oriental small-clawed otter, ring-tailed lemur.

[6] The institution's second multi-year capital campaign was launched in 2005, with its largest project being a $2.7 million state-of-the-art animal care pavilion.

[7] Outside the capital fund drive, the Bermuda government has pledged an additional $700,000 for general exhibit updates.