Seattle Aquarium Has New Ocean Pavilion

The Seattle Aquarium’s new Ocean Pavilion, which opened late last month, stands as a significant milestone in the revitalization of Seattle’s waterfront. More than just a beautiful addition to the area, the Ocean Pavilion offers an engaging experience for visitors of all ages, showcasing a diverse array of marine life.

Upon entering the Pavilion, guests are immediately drawn to an expansive exhibit titled “The Reef.” This captivating display features vibrant coral and a variety of fish, quickly earning the attention of children and adults alike. One excited visitor, a 4-year-old, dashed toward the exhibit, embodying the infectious enthusiasm it inspires.

The aquarium has plans to introduce an Indo-Pacific leopard shark pup into “The Reef” display once she matures, adding an extra layer of excitement for future visitors. 

The Ocean Pavilion operates daily from 9:30 AM to 6 PM, with the last entry at 5 PM. Although ticket prices may deter some, with adults costing over $40 and children around $25 (children aged 3 and under can enter for free), admission provides access to both the main aquarium campus and the new Pavilion.

One of the Pavilion’s standout features is its main viewing window, a stunning floor-to-ceiling installation that measures 23 feet tall and over 30 feet wide. This immersive experience draws visitors in, allowing them to witness the captivating underwater world up close. During a recent visit, the star attraction—the Indo-Pacific leopard shark—delighted onlookers by performing playful somersaults for a captivated audience of children.

In addition to the impressive aquatic displays, the central hall features moving projections of sea life that captivated the attention of many young visitors, including my own child. A colorful tunnel filled with interactive and tactile exhibits offers hands-on experiences for younger guests, ensuring that even the littlest explorers, like my 5-month-old baby, can engage with the marine environment.

Upstairs, guests can marvel at a mangrove forest growing out of picturesque pools, while smaller displays on the lower level provide intimate views of lionfish, clownfish, scorpionfish, and vibrant anemones. 

The highlight of the upper level is the opportunity to observe spotted eagle rays as they gracefully glide overhead, swooping within inches of the glass as if greeting visitors. With three rays in total, their playful presence adds to the Pavilion’s charm.