Seattle Aquarium
Dive into the wonders of the Pacific Northwest and beyond at the Seattle Aquarium, featuring vibrant marine life and immersive exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Seattle Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dive into the wonders of the Pacific Northwest and beyond at the Seattle Aquarium, featuring vibrant marine life and immersive exhibits.
"The Seattle Aquarium is a very, very, very, VERY good aquarium!"
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save money and time by purchasing your Seattle Aquarium tickets in advance online.
🚶♀️ Explore Both Areas
Ensure your admission covers both the main aquarium and the new Ocean Pavilion for a complete visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ocean Pavilion
New expansion
Immerse yourself in the Coral Triangle with 3,500 animals and stunning 360° digital displays.
Playful Sea Otters
Window on Washington Waters
Watch these energetic and entertaining creatures frolic and interact. They're a definite crowd-pleaser!
Touch Tide Pools
Window on Washington Waters
Get hands-on with sea stars and other fascinating marine life in this interactive exhibit.
Sassy Seals
Window on Washington Waters
You might just catch a seal giving a hilariously sassy side-eye. Don't miss their expressive personalities!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Ocean Pavilion Access
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save money and time by purchasing your Seattle Aquarium tickets in advance online.
🚶♀️ Explore Both Areas
Ensure your admission covers both the main aquarium and the new Ocean Pavilion for a complete visit.
🦦 Watch Otter Feedings
Check the schedule for feeding times; the otters are especially active and entertaining then!
📱 Use the Aquarium App
Download the official app for maps, feeding schedules, and animal information.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save money and time by purchasing your Seattle Aquarium tickets in advance online.
🚶♀️ Explore Both Areas
Ensure your admission covers both the main aquarium and the new Ocean Pavilion for a complete visit.
🦦 Watch Otter Feedings
Check the schedule for feeding times; the otters are especially active and entertaining then!
📱 Use the Aquarium App
Download the official app for maps, feeding schedules, and animal information.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be challenging downtown; consider public transport or arriving early.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Seattle Aquarium for its well-maintained exhibits and the engaging nature of its animals, particularly the sea otters and seals. The new Ocean Pavilion is a significant draw, offering immersive experiences. However, some find the admission price steep for the overall quantity of exhibits, and occasional staff interactions can be less than ideal.
"Seattle Aquarium is a spot I like to visit when i travel to Seattle. It’s so pretty inside the building! The animals look like they’re healthy and are treated well. I believe my biggest issue with the aquarium is the fact that there’s not really a lot to see even with the Ocean Pavilion added onto the price.
A lot of the stuff that they have is really cool and fun. You get to touch some of the animals as well. But it doesn’t seem like the quantity of animals equal the price of admission. I understand having to keep the aquarium funded. However, $80 for two people is just so much especially when there’s not a lot to do.
Lastly, I will say, for the most part, the staff were nice however, others were a little interesting. We entered the building because the front door was open and we walked in. Multiple employees looked at us, but didn’t say anything so we didn’t think anything of it.
Until one of them with a little bit of a raise voice said “oh we’re not open yet”. It was literally 30 seconds till opening. I can understand not wanting to have anyone in there but at the same time we could wait in the line until it was officially opened. It was very odd and rubbed me the wrong way.
Other than that, go on a weekday, it’s cheaper. Because the usual price is $100 or more for two people."
Samantha Fuster
"Awesome! The aquarium has two parts.
In one, you can have an interactive experience and touch the sea urchins and other things. You can also see some jellyfish and other pretty small animals.
In the other park, you can see some sharks and whales and seals and stingrays. When you are entering, you may see a large tub of whales and other large aquatic animals above you.
Overall, this is a very, very, very, VERY good aquarium!"
Eli Greenwood
"The price is a little steep if you don't bundle with other tickets but you could spend all day at the 2 buildings. The aquarium itself is all local marine life while the pavilion has more traditional sea creatures. We learned a lot and really enjoyed our time. All of the staff was so knowledgeable and we particularly enjoyed being able to touch starfish!"
Brianna Harte
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Seattle Aquarium is located on Pier 59 on the Seattle waterfront. You can reach it via public transportation, including buses and the Link Light Rail to Westlake Station, followed by a short walk. Driving is also an option, but parking can be limited and expensive.
Several parking garages are available near the aquarium, such as the Pike Place Market Garage or the Waterfront Garage. Arriving early on weekdays can help secure a spot.
Yes, the Seattle Aquarium is easily accessible by various public transport options in Seattle, including buses and the Link Light Rail.
Weekday traffic can be moderate, especially during rush hour. If heading north on I-5 around 1 PM, it should be manageable, but expect heavier traffic if you leave closer to 4-5 PM.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to get to the Seattle Aquarium, with designated drop-off points nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but general admission typically ranges from $30-$50 per adult. It's recommended to check the official Seattle Aquarium website for the most current pricing and potential discounts.
Yes, discounts may be available for seniors, children, and military personnel. Look for online promotions or consider purchasing a CityPASS if you plan to visit multiple Seattle attractions.
You can purchase tickets at the door, but buying them online in advance is highly recommended to ensure availability and potentially get a better price.
The Seattle Aquarium offers membership options that provide unlimited visits for a year, along with other benefits. This can be a cost-effective choice for frequent visitors.
Your Seattle Aquarium ticket typically grants access to all exhibits, including the main aquarium and the newer Ocean Pavilion, featuring diverse marine life and interactive displays.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the playful sea otters, the interactive touch tide pools, the mesmerizing jellyfish, and the impressive Ocean Pavilion with its vast coral reef ecosystem.
Yes, the Seattle Aquarium features several interactive exhibits, including touch tide pools where you can gently pet sea stars and other creatures.
You'll see a wide variety of marine life, including sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, sharks, rays, jellyfish, octopuses, and numerous species of fish from the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
The Seattle Aquarium is very family-friendly, with engaging exhibits, touch pools, and opportunities to learn about marine life, making it a great outing for children.
You can spend anywhere from 2 to 4 hours exploring the Seattle Aquarium, depending on your pace and interest in each exhibit. The Ocean Pavilion adds more to see.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Seattle Aquarium has a cafe offering a selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages. You can also find various dining options along the waterfront nearby.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the Seattle Aquarium, but it's always best to check their specific policy upon arrival or on their website.
The cafe typically offers kid-friendly options like sandwiches, pizza, and snacks, along with coffee and other beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Seattle Aquarium for personal use. However, flash photography is usually prohibited to avoid disturbing the animals.
The Ocean Pavilion's large tanks, the playful sea otters, and the colorful jellyfish exhibits offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the unique expressions of the seals too!
Video recording is typically permitted for personal use, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid using excessive lighting or flash.
The main restriction is usually on flash photography. Always check for posted signs or ask staff if you're unsure about specific exhibit rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With the addition of the Ocean Pavilion, there's even more to explore, offering a vibrant underwater world that will fascinate young minds.
Consider attending a feeding demonstration for an extra dose of excitement. 💖 Couples & Date Nights
The jellyfish exhibits provide a mesmerizing backdrop, and watching the sea otters play can be incredibly charming. Consider visiting during an evening event or simply enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the exhibits. The Ocean Pavilion adds a modern, immersive element perfect for creating shared memories.
It's a wonderful way to connect and discover the wonders of the ocean together. 💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
If you're planning to visit multiple attractions in Seattle, look into purchasing a CityPASS, which often includes admission to the aquarium at a reduced overall cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The New Ocean Pavilion Experience
The pavilion features impressive 360° digital displays that enhance the underwater immersion, making you feel like you're truly part of the ocean. It's designed to showcase the incredible biodiversity of this vital marine region and educate visitors on conservation efforts.
This expansion not only adds more to see but also provides a more dynamic and engaging experience. The sheer scale of the main tank and the variety of colorful fish, rays, and even a leopard shark make it a highlight for many visitors.
Interactive Encounters & Animal Highlights
Beyond the touch pools, the aquarium is home to some truly captivating residents. The sea otters are a constant source of amusement with their playful antics, often stealing the show.
For those fascinated by the more ethereal, the jellyfish exhibits are mesmerizing, with their graceful movements and bioluminescent qualities. And don't forget the octopus – catching its feeding time at 11 AM is highly recommended for a burst of activity.
Planning Your Visit: Tickets, Timing, and Tips
While the aquarium offers a lot to see, some visitors note that the quantity of exhibits might not fully justify the ticket price for everyone.
Make sure your ticket includes access to both the main aquarium and the pavilion for the full scope of marine life on display. Remember to check the aquarium's schedule for feeding times and any special events. Parking downtown can be a challenge, so exploring public transportation options or arriving early is advisable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit