Situated on Seattle’s waterfront, the Seattle Aquarium immerses students in the world of marine science and conservation. Exhibits showcase the richness of Puget Sound and beyond, offering a window into diverse species and habitats. A standout display is the Window on Washington Waters, a 120,000-gallon exhibit replicating local marine environments that includes rockfish, sea anemones, and frequent diving demonstrations. The Underwater Dome provides a 360-degree perspective on marine life, surrounding visitors with graceful sharks, schools of fish, and other underwater inhabitants.
Hands-on activities in areas like Life on the Edge encourage students to touch sea stars and sea cucumbers while learning about coastal biodiversity. The aquarium’s educational programs align with state and national standards, covering topics such as ecosystem balance, marine food webs, and climate change’s influence on ocean habitats. For schools unable to visit in person, virtual field trips deliver real-time tours, interactive discussions, and live feeding sessions. Teachers can prepare or follow up with lesson plans, downloadable activities, and multimedia content designed to foster environmental awareness. By exposing students to unique marine life and scientific concepts, the aquarium sparks an appreciation for ocean stewardship and encourages them to consider how human actions affect aquatic environments.
