Nestled within the bustling Mall of America, the SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota offers a captivating underwater adventure for visitors of all ages. With admission tickets starting at just $26.88, guests can enjoy the wonders of the deep, exploring themed exhibits that showcase over 10,000 sea creatures. From the Amazon River to the lost city of Atlantis, the aquarium’s exhibits promise an engaging and educational experience. But the real thrill lies in the unexpected – a chance to come face-to-face with elusive marine life and uncover the secrets that lie beneath the waves.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Shopping Tours In Bloomington.
Good To Know
- SEA LIFE Aquarium is located within the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota and features over 10,000 sea creatures across four themed tanks.
- Admission tickets start at $26.88, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the visit, making it accessible for families.
- The aquarium offers an educational and immersive experience, with opportunities to observe animal feedings and learn from knowledgeable staff.
- Popular attractions include the underwater tunnel, Octopus Garden, and the world’s largest crab species, providing a unique glimpse into marine life.
- While the average visit duration is 30-45 minutes, visitors can time their visits to avoid peak crowds and enjoy the diverse exhibits at their own pace.
Location and Overview of SEA LIFE
The SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota is located within the Mall of America in Bloomington, USA.
This aquarium boasts an impressive collection of over 10,000 sea creatures, including tropical fish, seahorses, rays, and an octopus.
Visitors can explore four themed tanks – the Amazon River, Atlantis, Sturgeon Lake, and Rainbow Reef.
The aquarium features unique exhibits, such as the Octopus Garden and the world’s largest crab species.
Visitors can also walk through an underwater tunnel to view stingrays and turtles.
The knowledgeable staff offer scheduled talks and feedings, providing educational opportunities for guests of all ages.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bloomington.
Admission Pricing and Ticketing
Admission tickets to the SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota start from $26.88, inclusive of all taxes.
The aquarium offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, which is convenient for visitors. It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a family-friendly attraction.
Tickets are operated by the SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota, and confirmation is received at the time of booking. The admission price grants access to the aquarium’s four themed tanks, featuring over 10,000 sea creatures.
While the experience typically lasts 30-45 minutes, visitors can engage with the knowledgeable staff and participate in educational activities to make the most of their visit.
Themed Exhibits and Attractions
Diverse marine environments await visitors at the SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota, which houses four captivating themed tanks.
The Amazon River showcases the vibrant colors and unique species of the Amazon basin.
The Atlantis tank immerses guests in the wonders of the mythical lost city, complete with towering ancient ruins.
Sturgeon Lake highlights the impressive size and prehistoric features of sturgeon, one of the world’s largest freshwater fish.
The Rainbow Reef dazzles with a kaleidoscope of tropical fish swimming amidst a vibrant coral reef.
Throughout the aquarium, visitors can encounter the world’s largest crab species and venture through an underwater tunnel for up-close views of stingrays and turtles.
Educational Experiences and Animal Feedings
Beyond the captivating themed tanks, SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota offers engaging educational experiences and opportunities to witness animal feedings.
Visitors can attend scheduled talks by the knowledgeable staff, who share fascinating insights about the diverse marine life on display. From learning about the unique adaptations of seahorses to observing the feeding rituals of the resident octopus, these interactive sessions provide a deeper understanding of the aquatic world.
Whether you’re exploring the Amazon River exhibit or marveling at the world’s largest crab species, the educational programming enhances the overall visitor experience at this captivating attraction.
Visitor Duration and Experience
With an average visit lasting 30-45 minutes, SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota provides a relatively quick yet engaging experience for visitors.
The aquarium is particularly popular among families, especially those with children, who can enjoy the interactive elements and educational activities throughout the exhibits.
Although some visitors have noted issues with overcrowding impacting their experience, the diverse array of marine life, from tropical fish to stingrays and octopus, offers an immersive and informative glimpse into the underwater world.
While the duration may be brief, knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide insights during scheduled talks and feedings, enhancing the educational value of the visit.
Positive Visitor Feedback
Visitors are generally pleased with the fun and educational experience offered at SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota. Many reviewers praise the aquarium’s cleanliness and well-maintained exhibits, highlighting the interactive elements and engaging activities.
The underwater tunnel, jellyfish exhibit, and touch pool are particularly popular attractions that receive high praise. Families with children especially appreciate the aquarium’s ability to provide an informative and entertaining visit.
While some find the experience a bit rushed due to occasional overcrowding, the majority of visitors cite the aquarium as a great break from shopping at the nearby Mall of America.
Negative Visitor Feedback
While many visitors praise the aquarium’s offerings, a number of reviews cite drawbacks to the SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota experience. Some found the attraction overpriced for the duration of the visit, with one reviewer noting it "wasn’t worth the price." Overcrowding was another common complaint, with visitors describing the experience as "rushed" and impacted by noise levels. The table below outlines the key negative feedback themes:
| Negative Feedback | Reviews |
|---|---|
| Overpriced | "Not worth the price" |
| Overcrowded | "Rushed experience", "Noisy" |
| Short duration | "30-45 minutes not enough" |
Despite the aquarium’s impressive exhibits, these logistical issues seem to have diminished the overall enjoyment for some guests.
Tips and Recommendations
The SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota makes for an educational and entertaining visit, particularly for families with children.
To make the most of your experience, it’s best to time your visit to avoid peak crowds, which can impact the overall enjoyment. Be sure to engage with the knowledgeable staff, who offer scheduled talks and feedings that provide valuable insights into the sea creatures.
While the aquarium is on the smaller side, it’s an ideal break from the bustling Mall of America.
With its unique exhibits like the Octopus Garden and underwater tunnel, the SEA LIFE Aquarium offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Things To Known
Does the Aquarium Offer Any Discounts or Promotions?
The aquarium offers discounted tickets for military, seniors, and children, as well as online booking deals. Be sure to check their website for any current promotions to get the best price.
Is There a Dress Code or Any Prohibited Items?
There is no strict dress code, but visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Prohibited items include outside food/drinks, large bags, and weapons. Check the aquarium’s website for the latest policies before your visit.
Can Visitors Take Photos and Videos During the Visit?
Visitors are generally free to take photos and videos throughout their visit, allowing them to capture the aquarium’s many stunning exhibits. Flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals.
Are There Any Food or Dining Options Available On-Site?
SEA LIFE Minnesota doesn’t have its own dining options, but visitors can enjoy the food and restaurants within the Mall of America after their aquarium visit. There are plenty of dining choices available throughout the mall’s complex.
What Is the Policy for Guests With Special Needs or Disabilities?
SEA LIFE Aquarium strives to be accessible for all guests. They offer wheelchair and stroller accessibility, and staff are happy to assist visitors with special needs. Guests should contact the aquarium in advance for any specific accommodations.
Sum Up
Nestled within the Mall of America, the SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota offers an affordable and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. With a wide range of marine life, educational exhibits, and interactive activities, it’s a must-visit destination for those seeking a fun and enlightening break from shopping. Whether you’re marveling at the underwater tunnel or attending a feeding session, the SEA LIFE Aquarium is sure to leave a lasting impression.