Photo: Loveland Living Planet Aquarium
Photo: Cristi K
Photo: Katea Spencer
Loveland Living Planet Aquarium
★4.6(19,644 reviews)$$Aquarium
🕑 2.5-3.5 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12, though all ages enjoy it. Toddlers are mesmerized by the colorful fish and gentle stingrays, while older kids love the shark tunnel and learning about Utah's native aquatic ecosystems. The interactive exhibits keep elementary-aged children engaged for hours.🧡 Saved by 150+ families
About
The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium offers an immersive underwater adventure that captivates kids of all ages. From walking through a mesmerizing shark tunnel to getting hands-on at the stingray touch pool and meeting adorable penguins face-to-face, this world-class aquarium delivers unforgettable experiences that blend education with pure excitement.
Highlights
- ✓Walking through the 40-foot shark tunnel surrounded by swimming sharks and rays
- ✓Touching live stingrays at the interactive touch pool
- ✓Meeting African penguins at the Penguin Research Station
- ✓Discovering native Utah fish and wildlife in the Journey to South America exhibit
- ✓Watching playful river otters and exploring the Amazon rainforest ecosystem
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right at opening (10:00 AM) to beat the crowds and have the best experience at the touch pools before they get busy
- 2.Download the aquarium's app beforehand for interactive scavenger hunts that keep kids engaged throughout the visit
- 3.Bring hand towels or sanitizing wipes since kids will want to touch everything at the stingray pool
- 4.Visit on Monday evenings for extended hours until 8:00 PM when it's typically less crowded than weekends
- 5.Check the daily schedule for penguin feedings and animal encounters when you arrive,these shows are highlights that fill up quickly
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday at opening) offer the smallest crowds. Mondays stay open until 8:00 PM, making late afternoon a great option. Avoid Saturday afternoons when the aquarium is busiest with weekend visitors.
What to Know
General admission tickets should be purchased online in advance (especially on weekends) to guarantee entry and save time. The facility is fully wheelchair accessible with stroller-friendly pathways, and while there's a café inside, outside food is not permitted.
Seasonal Notes
The aquarium is open year-round and provides an excellent indoor activity during Utah's hot summers and cold winters. Special holiday events include Halloween celebrations and festive decorations during the winter season. Summer weekends are the busiest times.
Nearby Eats
Draper has numerous family-friendly options within 5 minutes including Chick-fil-A and Cafe Rio for quick meals, or try The District shopping area nearby with multiple casual dining restaurants perfect for families.
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