About SEA LIFE Mall of America Aquarium
SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, located within the world-famous Mall of America in Bloomington, is the largest aquarium in the state. This spectacular underwater attraction brings the wonders of the ocean to the heart of the Midwest, offering visitors an unforgettable journey through diverse marine environments. With over 10,000 sea creatures representing hundreds of species, SEA LIFE Minnesota provides an immersive experience that educates and inspires visitors of all ages.
The aquarium is renowned for its incredible 300-foot ocean tunnel – one of the longest in the United States. As you walk through this transparent underwater pathway, you're completely surrounded by marine life. Sharks glide overhead, graceful rays sweep past, and schools of tropical fish create a kaleidoscope of color around you. It's an experience that makes visitors feel like they're actually walking on the ocean floor.
Beyond the stunning ocean tunnel, SEA LIFE Minnesota features more than 30 displays and exhibits showcasing marine life from around the world. From the coral reefs of the tropics to the cold waters of the Pacific Northwest, each zone offers unique encounters with fascinating creatures. The aquarium's commitment to conservation and education makes it not just an entertainment destination, but a place where visitors can learn about the importance of protecting our oceans.
What makes SEA LIFE Minnesota particularly appealing is its location within Mall of America, one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in North America. Visitors can easily combine their aquarium experience with shopping, dining, and other attractions like Nickelodeon Universe and LEGOLAND Discovery Center for a complete day of family entertainment.
SEA LIFE is located on Level 1 of Mall of America. Combine your visit with Nickelodeon Universe and LEGOLAND Discovery Center for an action-packed day!
SEA LIFE Mall of America Ticket Prices & Options
Understanding your ticket options helps you maximize value and plan the perfect visit. Here's a comprehensive guide to admission prices and packages available:
Standard Admission
Standard admission provides full access to all SEA LIFE Minnesota exhibits, including the 300-foot ocean tunnel, all themed zones, interactive touch pools, and daily feeding presentations.
- Adult Tickets (13+ years): From $25 online (gate price $30-35)
- Child Tickets (3-12 years): From $20 online
- Children under 3: Free admission with paying adult
- Senior Discount (60+): Available on select dates
Combo Tickets – Best Value
Mall of America offers fantastic combo packages combining SEA LIFE with other attractions:
- SEA LIFE + Nickelodeon Universe: Save up to 25% on combined admission
- SEA LIFE + LEGOLAND: Perfect for families with young children
- Ultimate Mall of America Pass: Access to multiple attractions at significant savings
- Annual Pass: Unlimited visits throughout the year
Special Experiences
- Behind-the-Scenes Tour: Exclusive access to backstage areas and animal care facilities
- Birthday Party Packages: Celebrate in an underwater setting
- Educational Programs: School group rates and educational packages available
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Book SEA LIFE Mall of America TicketsExhibits & Attractions at SEA LIFE Mall of America
SEA LIFE Minnesota features over 30 stunning displays and interactive experiences. Here are the highlights you won't want to miss:
300-Foot Ocean Tunnel
The crown jewel of SEA LIFE Minnesota is its spectacular 300-foot ocean tunnel – one of the longest in America. This incredible underwater walkway takes you through a massive tank containing sharks, rays, sea turtles, and hundreds of tropical fish. With curved glass walls providing 180-degree views, you'll feel completely immersed in the underwater world. Take your time walking through – it's an experience worth savoring.
Shark Harbor
Come face-to-face with various shark species in the dedicated Shark Harbor exhibit. Home to blacktip reef sharks, nurse sharks, and other impressive predators, this zone dispels myths about these magnificent creatures while showcasing their beauty and importance to ocean ecosystems. Don't miss the daily shark feeding demonstrations for fascinating insights into shark behavior.
Interactive Touch Pool
Get hands-on with marine life at the popular touch pool experiences. Under the guidance of friendly staff, gently touch sea stars, sea anemones, hermit crabs, and horseshoe crabs. It's a favorite experience for children and provides a unique connection with ocean creatures that you simply can't get from watching through glass.
Stingray Cove
Watch graceful stingrays glide through the water in Stingray Cove. These elegant creatures are mesmerizing to observe, and you can learn about their unique biology during educational presentations. Some special experiences even allow guests to feed the rays!
Tropical Ocean Display
Discover the vibrant colors of coral reef environments in the Tropical Ocean Display. Watch clownfish dart among anemones, spot moray eels hiding in crevices, and admire the stunning array of angelfish, tangs, and other tropical species. This exhibit highlights the incredible biodiversity of coral reefs and the importance of protecting these fragile ecosystems.
Seahorse Kingdom
Enter the magical world of seahorses and their relatives. These delicate creatures are among the ocean's most fascinating inhabitants, with unique features like male pregnancy and the ability to change color. SEA LIFE Minnesota participates in seahorse breeding programs to help protect endangered species.
Jellyfish Discovery
Experience the ethereal beauty of jellyfish in specially designed illuminated tanks. Watch moon jellies and other species pulse through the water in mesmerizing displays. The dramatic lighting showcases their graceful movements, creating an almost hypnotic experience.
Minnesota Waters
Learn about the amazing aquatic life found right in Minnesota's own waters. This locally-themed exhibit features species native to Minnesota lakes and rivers, including sturgeon, bass, and various freshwater creatures. It's a great way to appreciate the marine biodiversity in your own backyard.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
SEA LIFE Minnesota is open daily, with hours that coordinate with Mall of America operations:
Regular Hours
- Monday - Thursday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Friday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Note: Last admission is typically one hour before closing. Hours may be extended during holidays and summer months.
Best Times to Visit
- Weekday mornings (10 AM - 12 PM): Quietest time for a relaxed experience
- Late afternoons (after 4 PM): Crowds typically decrease
- January - March: Generally lower attendance (excluding holidays)
- Avoid: Weekend afternoons, school holidays, and rainy days when Mall of America is busiest
Location & Getting There
SEA LIFE Minnesota is located on Level 1 of Mall of America, one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in North America.
Address
SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium
Mall of America, Level 1
120 East Broadway
Bloomington, MN 55425
Getting There by Car
Mall of America is located at the intersection of I-494 and Highway 77, approximately 10 miles south of downtown Minneapolis. The complex is clearly visible from the highway and easy to find. Free parking is available in the mall's massive parking ramps.
Public Transportation
The METRO Blue Line light rail connects Mall of America directly to downtown Minneapolis and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. The Mall of America Transit Station is located on the ground level of the East parking ramp, providing convenient access to the mall and SEA LIFE.
From Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport
Mall of America is just one stop on the Blue Line from the airport – approximately 12 minutes. This makes SEA LIFE Minnesota a perfect activity for travelers with layovers or those staying near the airport.
Parking
Mall of America offers free parking in its massive parking structures. During busy times, arrive early to secure a spot closer to the East entrance for easiest access to SEA LIFE. The parking ramps are connected to the mall by climate-controlled walkways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours at SEA LIFE Minnesota. This allows time to explore all exhibits, enjoy the touch pools, watch feeding presentations, and walk through the 300-foot tunnel multiple times. Families with young children may want to allow extra time for interactive areas.
Yes! Combo tickets are available combining SEA LIFE with Nickelodeon Universe theme park and LEGOLAND Discovery Center. These combos offer significant savings compared to buying individual tickets and are perfect for a full day of family entertainment.
Yes, Mall of America offers free parking in its extensive parking ramps. There's plenty of space, though during peak times you may need to park further from the entrances.
Absolutely! SEA LIFE Minnesota is designed with families in mind. Interactive touch pools, child-height viewing windows, and engaging presentations keep young visitors entertained. Strollers are welcome throughout, and children under 3 enter free.
Yes, SEA LIFE offers several feeding demonstrations throughout the day, including shark feeding and ray feeding. Check the schedule at the entrance or ask staff when you arrive to plan your visit around these exciting presentations.
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