ZooWashington, US

Seattle Aquarium

The Seattle Aquarium, nestled on Piers 59 and 60 along the vibrant Elliott Bay waterfront, is a premier destination for experiencing the rich marine life of the Salish Sea and beyond.

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About

The Seattle Aquarium, nestled on Piers 59 and 60 along the vibrant Elliott Bay waterfront, is a premier destination for experiencing the rich marine life of the Salish Sea and beyond. This captivating public aquarium prides itself on its deep commitment to marine conservation, offering visitors an engaging and educational exploration of underwater ecosystems. With its recent expansion, including the stunning Ocean Pavilion, the aquarium beautifully bridges the local aquatic environment with diverse global habitats, creating a truly comprehensive and inspiring experience for all ages.

Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of the Window on Washington Waters, a spectacular 120,000-gallon exhibit showcasing the local coastal waters, teeming with native fish and invertebrates. The iconic Underwater Dome provides a breathtaking 360-degree view into a large Puget Sound habitat, where salmon, lingcod, and various rockfish glide by. Engage directly with marine life at the Life on the Edge tide pools, where you can gently touch sea stars and anemones. Don't miss the playful antics of sea otters and harbor seals in the Marine Mammals exhibit, or the vibrant Birds and Shores area featuring tufted puffins and rhinoceros auklets. The new Ocean Pavilion transports guests to the Coral Triangle, an area of immense biodiversity, allowing up-close encounters with blacktip reef sharks, rays, and dazzling coral formations.

More than just an attraction, the Seattle Aquarium is a vital hub for marine conservation and education, inspiring a deeper understanding and appreciation for our one world ocean. Its thoughtful design, interactive exhibits, and daily animal talks and feedings create memorable moments, encouraging visitors to connect with marine life and learn about critical environmental stewardship. Whether observing a Giant Pacific Octopus or exploring the colorful reefs, a visit here leaves a lasting impression and a renewed sense of responsibility for the health of our oceans. Be ready to snap and learn! Get the Snappit app to identify any nature species you find here.

The Seattle Aquarium first opened its doors on May 20, 1977, replacing a privately owned facility, the Seattle Marine Aquarium, which closed the same year. The plans for a city-operated aquarium were approved by voters through a Forward Thrust ballot initiative in 1968. Initially, the aquarium was owned and managed by the City of Seattle's Department of Parks and Recreation. In a significant transition on July 1, 2010, the non-profit Seattle Aquarium Society took over its management under a long-term operating agreement with the City. This change further solidified the aquarium's commitment to marine conservation and education. The most recent major development is the opening of the new Ocean Pavilion in 2024, which significantly expands the aquarium's campus and exhibit offerings.

What to do here

Explore all three buildings (Pier 59, Pier 60, and the Ocean Pavilion). Participate in daily talks and animal feedings – check the schedule upon arrival. Engage with the touch tanks in "Life on the Edge." Visit Caring Cove if you have young children, an interactive play space. Enjoy the views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains from the outdoor areas and cafe.

Seasonal info

During fall and winter, visitors are advised to dress warmly due to the outdoor elements of the marine mammal habitats and typical Seattle rain.

Accessibility

The Seattle Aquarium is wheelchair-accessible, with accessible habitats and restrooms. Wheelchairs are available for loan at guest services on a first-come, first-served basis. The facility is registered as sensory-inclusive, and a private nursing/pumping pod is available. A social story visual guide is also offered to help prepare visitors with autism or sensory sensitivities.

Don't miss

Window on Washington Waters

A massive 120,000-gallon tank showcasing local marine life.

Underwater Dome

Offers a 360-degree view into a large Puget Sound habitat.

Life on the Edge

Interactive tide pools where you can touch sea creatures.

Marine Mammals

Observe sea otters, harbor seals, and Northern fur seals.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Sea Otter

Harbor Seal

Northern Fur Seal

Octopus

Blacktip Reef Shark

Leopard Shark

Coral

Sea Star

Anemone

Atlantic Salmon

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Buy tickets online in advance

This is highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays, to ensure your preferred entry time and potentially avoid longer wait times or sold-out days.

Plan parking ahead

The aquarium does not have dedicated parking. Consider booking a spot in a nearby garage via services like SpotHero. The Pike Place Market Garage offers two free hours of parking with Aquarium validation.

Check daily schedules

Upon arrival, inquire about the day's schedule for animal feedings and educational talks at the marine mammal habitats or other exhibits, as locations and times can vary.

Visit during off-peak hours

For a quieter experience with fewer crowds and more interactive time at touch tanks, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons.

No flash photography

To protect the animals, refrain from using flash photography or phone flashlights near the habitats.

Dress in layers

Parts of the aquarium, including marine mammal exhibits, are outdoors. Seattle's waterfront weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers ensures comfort.

Engage with touch pools responsibly

At the "Life on the Edge" exhibit, remember to wash your hands before and after, and only use one finger to gently touch the tide pool animals.

Frequently asked questions

: Most visitors find that a complete and enjoyable visit to the Seattle Aquarium takes approximately 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on their pace and interest in attending animal talks or feedings.
: Yes, guests are permitted to bring outside food and beverages into the Seattle Aquarium. However, outdoor eating on the back deck of Pier 59 is encouraged, weather permitting. Eating is restricted in certain habitat areas, including Window on Washington Waters, Birds & Shores, the harbor seal habitat, and throughout the Ocean Pavilion.
: The Seattle Aquarium offers various discounts, including those for Washington state residents, seniors, military personnel, and tribal members, which are available for purchase on-site. Visitors can also find free or reduced admission through Seattle Public Library and King County Library museum passes, as well as through CityPASS® tickets, which bundle admission with other Seattle attractions.