SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium - Touch Pool

The SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium Touch Pool offers an unforgettable hands-on marine experience where kids can actually touch and interact with starfish, rays, and other fascinating sea creatures under expert supervision. Located in the heart of Bloomington's Mall of America, this interactive exhibit transforms children from passive observers into active marine explorers, creating memorable moments that spark curiosity about ocean life.

• ✓Touching gentle stingrays as they glide through the water
• ✓Feeling the unique texture of starfish and sea anemones
• ✓Learning fun facts from enthusiastic staff members stationed at the pool
• ✓Watching kids' faces light up during their first marine animal encounter
• ✓The shallow, safe pool design that allows even nervous children to participate comfortably

1. 1.Visit right when the aquarium opens for the calmest touch pool experience with fewer crowds and more one-on-one time with staff educators
2. 2.Bring hand sanitizer for after the experience, though handwashing stations are available,kids will want to touch everything afterward
3. 3.Roll up sleeves beforehand and remind kids to use gentle, two-finger touches as instructed by staff to keep the animals safe
4. 4.Take advantage of the Mall of America location by combining your visit with lunch and other attractions, making it a full-day adventure
5. 5.Ask staff about feeding times for other exhibits,planning around the touch pool and feeding demonstrations maximizes your experience

Weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) are ideal, especially during the school year when crowds are lightest. Avoid weekends and school holidays when the touch pool can get crowded with long wait times. The first hour after opening offers the best staff-to-guest ratio for questions and guidance.

The touch pool is included with general aquarium admission (typically around $25-30 per person with discounts for kids). Parking is available in the Mall of America ramps with validation options, and the venue is fully accessible with stroller-friendly paths throughout.

Open year-round with consistent hours. Holiday periods (spring break, Thanksgiving week, Christmas through New Year's) bring larger crowds. Special themed events occasionally occur around holidays, so check the website for seasonal programming.

Since you're in Mall of America, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. offers a fun, ocean-themed dining experience that continues the aquatic adventure, while Crayola Experience Cafe provides quick, kid-friendly options with plenty of space for energetic little ones.