Biosphere 2
Explore a 3.14-acre sealed laboratory replicating Earth's biomes, from rainforest to ocean, in the Arizona desert.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat crowds & heat
Biosphere 2
Best Time
Beat crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a 3.14-acre sealed laboratory replicating Earth's biomes, from rainforest to ocean, in the Arizona desert.
"This is mind blowing experience! One of the most important places to visit in the USA."
🎯 Download the App Tour
Use the self-guided app for an informative tour, but be ready to restart it if it freezes. :iphone:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and stairs, especially for the Tower Tour. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tropical Rainforest
Inside the glass structure
Step into a humid, vibrant jungle teeming with diverse plant life, a stark contrast to the desert outside.
Ocean Biome
Inside the glass structure
Explore a million-gallon ocean with a coral reef, showcasing marine life and the challenges of aquatic ecosystems.
Fog Desert
Inside the glass structure
Experience the arid beauty of a fog desert, adapted to survive with minimal water and unique atmospheric conditions.
Tower Tour
Exterior observation tower
Ascend 77 stairs for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the entire Biosphere 2 facility and surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Beyond the Main Domes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Download the App Tour
Use the self-guided app for an informative tour, but be ready to restart it if it freezes. :iphone:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and stairs, especially for the Tower Tour. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated & Cool
The biomes are warm and humid. Bring water and wear light clothing. :sweat_drops:
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Consider military discounts if applicable. Arrive early to avoid school groups. :admission_tickets:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Download the App Tour
Use the self-guided app for an informative tour, but be ready to restart it if it freezes. :iphone:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and stairs, especially for the Tower Tour. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated & Cool
The biomes are warm and humid. Bring water and wear light clothing. :sweat_drops:
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Consider military discounts if applicable. Arrive early to avoid school groups. :admission_tickets:
🔭 Tower Tour Worth It
For a unique perspective, climb the 77 stairs for amazing views. Not for those with mobility issues. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often find Biosphere 2 a mind-blowing and unique experience, especially for those interested in science, ecosystems, and space exploration. The diverse biomes are a major highlight, offering a glimpse into different environments. However, some visitors note that certain areas can be closed off, and the self-guided app may occasionally malfunction. The heat and humidity inside the biomes are also frequently mentioned.
"Nice to finally check this place out. I love plants and learning about them so I figured this place would be awesome for a friend date. We did enjoy seeing the plants. We saw a lot of plants I haven’t seen before. We did notice a lot of things were closed off or we couldn’t really see it. There are guided tour options and self guided tours with WiFi and your cell phone. We chose to have the self guided tour as I didn’t want to pay more than the $30 I paid for each ticket. I paid for two with military discount which still was $27/each. With it being an hour away I got there right after opening time around 9:30am. Perfect time to beat the kids who show up during lunch time for school field trips. So it was nice to enjoy it without it being loud and over crowded since a lot of spaces are tight. It was already a little warm in the biosphere as well. So plan for some toasty humid weather in there."
Denise Peach
"A lot of good information pertaining to the ECO-System. Videos at each station were very informative. The Tower Tour, $12, will give you a 360⁰ view of the whole facility. Just be ready to climb 77 stairs... 😬 Canes and walkers not advised.
A great way to spend the afternoon."
Kevin Carr
"This is mind blowing experience!
And I mean it.
If you are interested in science, space exploration, self sustaining ecosystems this is the place for you!
If only you have a tiny engineering knowledge and a little sense of biology and ecosystems and interactions within them and between them this place will send your imagination to the moon!
One of the most important places to visit in the USA in general. One of a kind research facility hosting enclosed ecosystems, cloned from the ones known from the Mother Earth.
My family was absolutely stunned (wife and 12yo son). Fantastic personnel willing to answer every question, great idea with the app guide - yet it freezes pretty often requiring restart.
I hesitated for the moment to visit that place, but I’m so glad I decided to go.
And I have that great feeling that money spent there will serve a good cause keeping this unique place running.
If you ever wondered how the human bases would look like on Mars, the Moon or other less friendly environments - this is the place to see and learn.
Whoever were the people who designed it - I admire you.
Thank you!
What is my wish to make it even better?
Take us to the LUNG, show us actually the hydroponic garden, take us to the power generation area. I will come back if this dream comes true!"
Jerry F
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Biosphere 2 is located in Oracle, Arizona, about 30 miles north of Tucson. You can drive there via Oracle Road (AZ-77 N) and then follow signs. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. +1
Yes, Biosphere 2 is about a 2-hour drive from Phoenix, making it a feasible day trip for those in the Phoenix area. +1
The address for Biosphere 2 is 32540 S Biosphere Rd, Oracle, AZ 85623.
Public transportation options to Biosphere 2 are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the facility.
Many local tour operators in Tucson offer day trips to Biosphere 2, providing transportation and sometimes guided experiences. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but general admission is around $30 per person. Military discounts may be available. The Tower Tour is an additional fee, typically around $12.
It is recommended to book your Biosphere 2 tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your spot and potentially save time.
Biosphere 2 is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, discounts may be available for military personnel, seniors, and children. Check the Biosphere 2 website for current discount information.
Refund policies can vary. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions when purchasing your tickets or contact Biosphere 2 directly for their refund policy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Biosphere 2 features multiple distinct biomes, including a tropical rainforest, ocean, fog desert, savanna grassland, and a mangrove wetland. You can also explore the research labs and learn about past and present experiments.
Biosphere 2 offers both guided tours and self-guided options. The self-guided tour can be accessed via an app on your smartphone, which provides information as you explore.
A typical visit to Biosphere 2 can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on whether you do a self-guided tour or a guided tour, and if you opt for additional experiences like the Tower Tour.
Yes, Biosphere 2 is generally considered suitable for children and can be a very educational experience. However, some younger children might find the extensive walking and scientific information challenging.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as there is a lot of walking and stairs. Light, breathable clothing is recommended as the interior biomes can be warm and humid.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Biosphere 2 for personal use. However, tripods and professional photography equipment may require special permission.
The diverse biomes, the unique glass structure, and the panoramic views from the Tower Tour offer excellent photo opportunities. The ocean biome and the lush rainforest are particularly photogenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted at Biosphere 2 due to safety and research protocols. It's best to check their official policy regarding drones before your visit.
While personal photography is allowed, be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. Some specific research areas might have photography restrictions.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is helpful for some interior shots. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive biomes.
🎫 💡 History & Science
The Biosphere 2 experiment was a groundbreaking 1990s project that sealed eight people inside a 3.14-acre enclosed ecosystem to study self-sustaining life and Earth's systems.
Biosphere 2 was conceived by businessman John P. Allen and funded by billionaire Edward Bass. It was built by Space Dynamics and the Biosphere Foundation. 
Today, Biosphere 2 is a research facility operated by the University of Arizona, focusing on Earth systems science, climate change research, and sustainable living.
Biosphere 2 contains five distinct biomes: a tropical rainforest, an ocean with a coral reef, a savanna grassland, a fog desert, and a mangrove wetland.
The experiment provided valuable insights into the complexities of closed ecological systems, human psychology in isolation, and the delicate balance of Earth's environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the Tower Tour for a fun challenge and a great view, but be mindful of the stairs. Arriving early is key to avoiding the noise and bustle of school field trips, ensuring a more enjoyable experience for everyone. Pack snacks and water, as the interior can be warm and humid.
🔬 Science Enthusiasts & Students
Engage with the informative displays, utilize the app for in-depth details, and don't miss the chance to ask questions of the knowledgeable staff. The historical context of the original experiment, combined with current research, offers a comprehensive understanding of the facility's significance.
👩❤️👨 Couples & Date Ideas
The Tower Tour provides a romantic panoramic view, perfect for shared moments. It's a great option for couples looking for an activity that is both engaging and offers plenty of conversation starters.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Biomes
Further exploration leads to the savanna grassland, a more open environment, and the fog desert, adapted to arid conditions and unique atmospheric moisture. The mangrove wetland also plays a crucial role in the facility's ecological balance. Each biome is a testament to the intricate web of life and the scientific effort to understand and preserve these vital systems.
These biomes are not just for show; they are active research laboratories. Scientists study everything from plant physiology and water cycles to the impact of climate change and the potential for life support systems in extreme environments, including future space missions.
+1The Biosphere 2 Experiment: A Historical Perspective
The project faced significant challenges, including technical issues, interpersonal conflicts among the crew, and unexpected ecological shifts within the biomes. Despite these hurdles, the experiment yielded invaluable data on the dynamics of closed systems, the psychological effects of isolation, and the complex interactions between different life forms.
+1Today, Biosphere 2 continues its legacy as a vital research facility under the management of the University of Arizona. It serves as a unique living laboratory for studying global environmental issues, climate change, and the development of sustainable technologies, drawing parallels to potential future human habitats on other planets.
+1Experiencing Biosphere 2: Tips from Visitors
Comfortable footwear is essential, as the visit involves considerable walking and climbing stairs, particularly if you opt for the Tower Tour. This additional tour offers a stunning panoramic view of the entire facility and is highly recommended for a broader perspective.
Visitors often express awe at the scale and complexity of the research facility, with many finding it a thought-provoking experience that encourages reflection on environmental issues and humanity's impact on the planet. The staff are frequently praised for their knowledge and willingness to answer questions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit