Opening in 2012, Kansas City Sea Life Aquarium is one of the newest attractions in Kansas City. This attraction is run by a company that maintains more than 35 aquariums across the world. The aquarium in Kansas City has over 5,000 creatures, including large reef sharks, octopi and smaller creatures such as seahorse and jellyfish.
Journey through a number of different ocean habitats as you explore the 28,000-square-foot (2,600-square-meter) venue. You’ll see smaller fish as you enter before making your way to the freshwater tanks. You will find many fish native to both the Missouri and Kansas lakes and streams here.
Let the kids hold crabs and feel the texture of starfish in the touch pool further into the aquarium. Staff are always on hand to help and answer any questions about the creatures in the pool.
One of the favorites in the aquarium is the ocean tank. Walk under the tank and watch as sharks and rays swim gracefully above you. Tropical fish swim through the tanks amongst the other animals. The aquarium also has one of the country’s best seahorse breeding programs and has an incredible array of species on show.
Allow two to three hours to see the aquarium, which is suited to families with children of all ages. Kids will enjoy the informational signs throughout the aquarium and the ocean-themed play area towards the exit. The whole family will appreciate the interactive talks held throughout the day. Check the aquarium’s website for a schedule of the talks.
Sea Life Aquarium is located in the Crown Center in Kansas City, near the center of town. The aquarium is open daily and closes late on Friday and Saturday. Parking is available in the Crown Center and is free when you validate your parking ticket at the aquarium’s admissions desk. There are plenty of public transport connections to Union Station and on Main Street.
