Sea Life Arizona photo
ZooArizona, US

Sea Life Arizona

Sea Life Arizona invites you to dive into an amazing underwater world.

About

Sea Life Arizona invites you to dive into an amazing underwater world. This interactive aquarium, nestled within the Arizona Mills mall in Tempe, offers an immersive journey into marine life, bringing the wonders of the ocean right to the heart of the desert. With over 5,000 creatures across more than 30 breathtaking exhibits, visitors can come face-to-fin with majestic sharks and graceful stingrays, or marvel at mesmerizing jellyfish. The visitor experience at Sea Life Arizona is designed to be both educational and engaging, making it a perfect destination for families. You can explore a vibrant Coral Exhibit teeming with clownfish, gently touch a sea star in the Interactive Touchpool, and encounter rescued green sea turtles like Donna and Ziva in their dedicated habitat. The highlight for many is Arizona's only 360-degree ocean tunnel, where sharks, rays, and sea turtles glide all around and above you, offering an unparalleled perspective of these incredible creatures. Beyond the ocean depths, the aquarium also features unique exhibits like Critter Canyon, which showcases local desert wildlife such as desert tortoises and king snakes, demonstrating the interconnectedness of different ecosystems. Educational talks and feeding demonstrations further enrich the visit, providing insights into the animals' lives and the importance of ocean conservation. Whether you're captivated by the serene ballet of seahorses in the Temple of the Seahorse or intrigued by the diversity of the Freshwater Exhibit, Sea Life Arizona promises an unforgettable aquatic adventure. Be ready to snap and learn! Get the Snappit app to identify any nature species you find here.

Sea Life Arizona officially opened its doors on May 15, 2010, marking a significant addition to the Arizona Mills mall in Tempe. It was the second Sea Life aquarium to launch in the United States and the 33rd worldwide, part of the global chain owned and operated by the British company Merlin Entertainments. The development was a $15 million investment, transforming a former retail space into a vibrant aquatic attraction. From its inception, the facility has emphasized education and conservation, aligning with the broader mission of the Sea Life brand to protect ocean habitats and marine life.

What to do here

Immerse yourself in the various themed zones, watch sharks and rays glide overhead in the ocean tunnel, feel different marine textures at the touch pool, and observe the diverse behaviors of thousands of sea creatures. Consider adding a Behind-the-Scenes tour for an additional fee to learn about animal care and the aquarium's operations.

Seasonal info

Being an indoor venue, Sea Life Arizona is a comfortable year-round attraction, providing a cool escape during the hot Arizona summers. While specific animal activities don't change seasonally, visitor numbers fluctuate as mentioned above.

Accessibility

Sea Life Arizona is fully wheelchair and ADA accessible. All areas, including exhibits and restrooms, are designed to accommodate guests using wheelchairs, ensuring an inclusive experience. Mobility scooters and ECVs (Electric Convenience Vehicles) are permitted, and child-level viewing bubbles are available for younger visitors.

Don't miss

1

360-degree Ocean Tunnel

2

Interactive Touchpool

3

Sea Turtle Rescue Reef featuring rescued green sea turtles Donna and Ziva

4

Bay of Rays

Wildlife you might spot

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Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Snap map for this place

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Good to know before you go

Book online in advance

Arrive early

Consider a combo ticket

Wear comfortable shoes

Bring your camera

Engage with staff

Re-entry is allowed

Frequently asked questions

On average, visitors spend about 60 to 90 minutes exploring Sea Life Arizona. However, this can vary depending on individual interests and how much time you wish to dedicate to each exhibit and activity.
Yes, Sea Life Arizona is fully wheelchair and ADA accessible. All exhibits, pathways, and restrooms are designed to accommodate guests using wheelchairs, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for everyone.
Sea Life Arizona is home to a wide array of fascinating creatures. Be sure to look for blacktip and brown sharks, various species of stingrays, rescued green sea turtles Donna and Ziva, elegant seahorses, mesmerizing jellyfish, playful clownfish, and the unique desert tortoises Mojave and Sonora in Critter Canyon. You might also spot the endangered Gila topminnow in the Freshwater Exhibit.

Recent snaps at this place

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