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Seattle, Washington / Museums

Seattle Aquarium

A premier regional resource for marine life discovery, the Seattle Aquarium is a nonprofit organization located on the Elliott Bay waterfront on Pier 59 and 60.

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Seattle Aquarium
www.seattleaquarium.org, og_image_www.seattleaquarium.org

Where is the Seattle Aquarium located?

The Seattle Aquarium is located on the Elliott Bay waterfront at 1483 Alaskan Way, Pier 59, Seattle, WA 98101, and occupies Pier 59 and Pier 60.

What are the hours?

The aquarium is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., though hours may vary.

What is it known for?

It is a nonprofit, AZA-accredited aquarium known as a premier regional resource for conservation education and hands-on marine experiences focused on Puget Sound and the global ocean.

Is it free?

General admission is available at no charge for those using a valid voucher from the Seattle Public Library museum-pass program, which requires a matching photo ID.

Are there events for adults?

Yes, the aquarium hosts an 'After Hours' evening event specifically for adults aged 21 and over.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Seattle Aquarium is a public, nonprofit aquarium situated on the Elliott Bay waterfront, occupying Pier 59 and Pier 60. Opened in 1977, the institution serves as a leading regional resource for hands-on marine experiences and conservation education, focusing on the amazing Puget Sound and the world's one ocean. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the aquarium provides visitors with exciting ways to discover the marine environment. Its mission is deeply tied to the conservation of Earth's one ocean, ensuring that visitors of all ages can engage with marine life and learn about the importance of protecting the sea. Located at 1483 Alaskan Way, the facility offers a variety of exhibits and educational programs. For those seeking a more mature experience, the aquarium hosts an 'After Hours' evening event specifically for adults aged 21 and over, allowing them to soak up the Seattle summer nights while exploring the marine exhibits. Visitors can explore the facility daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The aquarium's commitment to conservation education is central to its operations, framing its purpose around both local Puget Sound ecology and global ocean health.

Visitor tips

  • Plan your visit during regular business hours, typically 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.
  • If you have a Seattle Public Library card, check for available museum-pass program vouchers for free general admission.
  • Adults 21 and over can look for 'After Hours' evening events, some of which run from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. PST.

Nearby context

The Seattle Aquarium is a key landmark on the Elliott Bay waterfront, providing a gateway to the marine life of the Puget Sound, situated alongside other Pier-based attractions on Alaskan Way.

Sources

Evidence and links