Summary
Merlin Entertainment Group chose Tempe, Arizona to build a $15 million, 26,000 square foot aquarium. While this was only the second aquarium by this group located within the U.S., they have more than 30 other Sea Life aquariums in 11 countries on two continents. Merlin Entertainment also owns and operates Lego Land in San Diego and Sea Life in Carlsbad, CA.
Sea Life Arizona features more than 30 display tanks in 12 distinct habitats housing more than 5,000 creatures in 200,000 gallons of water. The aquarium is home to a variety of sea creatures such as seahorses, rays, sharks, and species indigenous to Arizona.
Sea Life promotes conservation and has an established environmental organization called Save Our Seas, the purpose of which is to protect sea turtles, sharks, whales, dolphins, and commercial fish stocks.
What was my take on Sea Life Arizona? While it isn’t Sea World — there aren’t dolphin shows or rides or even penguins — I thought it was beautiful! Not only were the fish and other marine life enchanting, but the design and colorful decor made it more like a theme park than other aquariums that simply feature tanks lined up in rows. Sea Life Arizona is a wonderful addition to the many attractions for both locals and visitors that the Phoenix area has to offer. It will probably be especially enjoyed by children of the area, many of whom might not have ever seen an ocean, and will assist in developing awareness of the special ecological challenges facing marine life.
Who Should Visit Sea Life
Sea Life Arizona was designed especially for young visitors. They can easily see all the displays and participate in fun and educational activities throughout their visit. Throughout the aquarium, there are questions and answers about the marine life on display, along with details about the various sea creatures that visitors encounter.
The aquarium is dark in some areas and incorporates lots of color — a feast for the eyes of both young and old! For those who may feel uneasy in small spaces, there are enough sitting areas and larger spaces to alleviate any claustrophobia you might experience.
How It Works
After guests buy their tickets, they are invited to take a photograph with a special background which they can purchase later as a souvenir to remember their visit. Following this, guests congregate in a waiting area to ensure the aquarium is not overcrowded. Automatic doors allow the next group of guests into an intermediate room where a very short video introduces the aquarium. At the conclusion of the video, visitors enter the aquarium and the adventure begins.
The aquarium is designed so that visitors travel along a defined path to the end. While there are places to stop along the way, it is generally advisable to keep moving forward and not backtrack against the flow of traffic. The exhibits progress logically, starting with Arizona lakes, rivers, and caves, all the way to the Pacific Ocean and coral reefs.
Upon entry, you’ll receive a map of the aquarium. The ambiance is dimmed, and you may not really require the map unless you wish to revisit a specific exhibit later on. You cannot get lost.
What You Can Do at Sea Life
Here’s a concise list of things that you can do during your visit to Sea Life Arizona:
- You may take pictures, as long as you don’t use flash. Some areas are lighter than others, and you can capture good images in those regions.
- You can check out the Dive Discovery Theater, where films play all day long, usually between 15 and 30 minutes in length.
- You can touch marine creatures at the tide pool.
- You can watch feeding times and listen to discussions about marine life throughout the day. Check with the ticket counter for the schedule of the day’s talks or special activities.
- You can take a break and relax or play in the Playzone.
- You can stay cool! The Sea Life Arizona aquarium is open year-round, with no outdoor exhibits and a fully air-conditioned environment.
- You may enjoy your visit at your leisure — there is no set maximum time for your stay. Families with children can generally expect to spend at least two or three hours at the aquarium.
- Your admission charge allows you entry for one entire day. You can have your hand stamped and return later in the same day to keep enjoying the aquarium.
What You Can’t Do at Sea Life
Here’s a brief list of things that you may not do when visiting Sea Life Arizona:
- You may not use flash photography.
- You may not use your phone inside the aquarium.
- Double strollers must be left outside.
- No running. Skateboards, scooters, or anything else with wheels are also not permitted.
- No food is allowed in Sea Life. Only beverages with screw caps are permitted.
- There is no cafeteria inside Sea Life Arizona, nor do they sell snacks. Sea Life Arizona is located at Arizona Mills Mall, close to the Food Court, where you can enjoy burgers, hot dogs, subs, pizza, ice cream, and more.
- Restrooms are not available within Sea Life. They are next to the Food Court in the mall.
- If you stopped to shop before visiting Sea Life, it is advisable to leave your packages in your car for easier movement.
- Riding seahorses is prohibited. 🙂
Take a Guided Tour
If you desire more detail and personal attention during your visit to Sea Life Arizona, consider participating in a behind-the-scenes guided tour. Your Sea Life representative will take you beyond the door labeled “Authorized Personnel Only” to see a glimpse of what happens behind the scenes.
Here’s what else you need to know about guided tours at Sea Life Arizona:
- There is an additional charge for a guided tour.
- The tour includes lectures and some hands-on activities. Generally, very young children may not appreciate it as there are not many fish or other creatures to see behind-the-scenes.
- Tours are limited to about 8 participants, allowing for easy interaction with your tour guide.
- Advance reservations are not accepted; check in at the admissions counter for the next available behind-the-scenes tour.
- The tours are conducted daily, several times throughout the day.
- The tour generally lasts about 30 minutes, depending on the number of questions and group size.
- Expect minimal walking on this tour. Your guide will take you to the restricted area where you will discuss how the aquarists care for the creatures and their environment at Sea Life. You likely won’t take more than 20 steps during the entire discussion, but you will be standing the whole time.
All dates, times, prices, and offerings are subject to change without notice.
Come Back Often and See What’s New
Visiting Sea Life Arizona isn’t a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Aside from the fact that you’ll probably notice something different each time you visit, new exhibits are introduced periodically. For example, in 2011, Sea Life Arizona opened the Claws exhibit, showcasing crustaceans. Meet the Japanese spider crabs, which can grow to 15 feet across, and the coconut crabs capable of cracking open coconuts with their powerful claws.
Did you know that Japanese spider crabs can live for 100 years? So, how old is the Japanese spider crab in this picture? I didn’t think it was polite to ask, and I didn’t want to make her angry!
Hours and Admission Prices
Sea Life Arizona is open seven days per week except on Christmas Day.
Hours
Monday through Saturday: 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Last admissions are one hour before closing.
One Day Admission (August 2017)
Adult: $22
Child ages 3 – 12: $17
There is often a discount for purchasing tickets online in advance. Seniors may receive a discount when purchasing in person and asking first.
Looking for other discounts to Sea Life Arizona? Present your AAA card for discounted admission. Additional discounts may also be available through various local partners including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Dunkin’ Donuts, Pizza Hut, and more. Discounts and partners change throughout the year. Military personnel with ID also receive a discount.
Combo Tickets
If you plan to visit the LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona (which is right next door), you may purchase a combo ticket for both attractions.
Annual Membership
Annual pass holders enjoy entry for an entire year with no admission charge, a discount in the retail shop, invitations to special events, and a member newsletter.
Adult: $45
Child ages 3 – 12: $45
Parking is free.
During peak times, there may be long waits (30+ minutes) to enter Sea Life Arizona, especially in summer, which could mean lining up outside. If you have a season pass or purchased your tickets in advance online, check for the speedy line — you can go right in!
All dates, times, prices, and offerings are subject to change without notice.
Location and Contact Information
Sea Life Arizona is conveniently located just off I-10 at Arizona Mills Mall in Tempe, Arizona. You can reach Sea Life via Valley Metro bus service, which stops at Arizona Mills right outside Sea Life: 48, 56, 77, 108. Check Valley Metro schedules and maps for details. There are no Light Rail stations within walking distance of Sea Life Arizona.
Sea Life Arizona Aquarium Address:
5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Suite 145
Tempe, AZ 85282
Sea Life Arizona Aquarium Phone:
480-478-7600
Sea Life Arizona Official Website
