The Seattle Aquarium

Frommer's Review

Although it's not nearly as large and impressive as the Monterey Bay Aquarium or the Oregon Coast Aquarium, the Seattle Aquarium did undergo a major remodel in 2006-2007 and is now looking just fabulous. The "Window on Washington Waters" exhibit, a huge tank just inside the entrance, is a highlight of a visit, especially when divers feed the fish. There's also a tank that generates crashing waves, and, in the Life on the Edge tide pool exhibit that focuses on life along Washington's shores, you can reach into the water to touch starfish, sea cucumbers, and anemones (kids love these tanks). The aquarium's main focus is on the water worlds of the Puget Sound region, but there are also fascinating exhibits of sea life from around the world, including a beautiful coral-reef tank. The star attractions, however, are the playful river otters and sea otters, as well as the giant octopus. From the underwater viewing dome you get a fish's-eye view of life beneath the waves, and each September you can watch salmon return up a fish ladder to spawn. Of course, there are also plenty of small tanks that allow you to familiarize yourself with the many fish of the Northwest.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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