Seattle Aquarium

Last weekend, we decided to check out the Seattle Aquarium. We had never been there before, and were pleasantly surprised at how big this place was for being situated on a dock overhanging the Sound.

The Aquarium seemed to be designed for elementary-aged children, but my husband and I had a great time. They have touch pools full of starfish, anemones, and other sea animals that you can touch, displays of brightly colored pacific fish and coral, moon jellyfish, and even two enormous octopus—seriously one of the most interesting creatures I have ever seen up close. Octopus Week at the aquarium starts February 14th. Click here to find more information on this event.


Throughout the day, the aquarium holds feedings for the animals where a diver enters the tanks and feeds the fish bits of food. She talks to the kids as she does so, explaining which fish prefer which food, etc.

Scott Beale/Laughing Squid laughingsquid.com

In the largest tank (see photo above) you can find a variety of fish you would see if you went diving in the Sound, though I'm sure the aquarium's collection of fish are bigger and better fed than the average sampling. Their eel—bright blue and at least 6 feet long—circled the tank every few minutes, as did the similar-sized skate and sturgeon.

The aquarium has a large section that is partially outdoors as well, where you can view a salmon ladder, bird refuge, and an outdoor feeding of some seals. Make sure that you dress warmly on the day that you go, especially with young children. The section is protected from the rain, but not from the cold.

They also had activities for children, such as face painting and small wet suits to try on, on the day I visited.

Find directions to the Seattle Aquarium here.