The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium was everything and some that we had hoped it to be. This fantastic aquarium located in Draper, UT makes for a perfect day trip for families. It’s packed with exploring, learning, and hands on play. Activities here were suitable for children of all ages and the environment was sensory friendly.
For my family, finding activities and places that are sensory friendly is a huge deal and can prove to be a big challenge. When we came up for our house hunting visit a couple weeks ago we debated for days whether or not we wanted to stop by the aquarium. I am so glad that we did.
While we did love our visit, I do have some suggestions for those planning their trip here.
Skip the Stroller
Strollers are allowed in the facility and the exhibits are designed in a way that it would be very easy to navigate a stroller through, however, most of the exhibits are higher than a child’s eye level when sitting in a stroller. Plus this aquarium is filled with hands on interactive activities. If you do bring your stroller be prepared to be helping your littles in and out of their seats often!
Bring Socks
In the middle of the exhibits is this really neat indoor playground that is the perfect place to take a break and run around. By the time we hit Tuki’s Island Play and Party Center the kids were at that level of just a little too excited and there was a bit of a struggle of getting everyone to stay together as a group. This playground was the perfect opportunity for the kids to burn off that excess energy while giving me the chance to catch my breath! Tuki’s Island is designed for children ages 2-12 (there is a baby play area), does require socks to play, and is an additional $3 for non-members and children 3+.
Swing by Café Avalon Before You Start
Food and drinks are not allowed to come through the door with you. However, right next to the entrance is the gift shop and Café Avalon. Throughout the exhibits are water fountains. Swing by Café Avalon, pick up a water bottle (which can be refilled at fountains), and avoid the long walks back for tired and hungry kids. The prices of Café Avalon are reasonable and food items are locally sourced.
Pack a Cooler
Ok…so I know I said no food and drink allowed inside, but…you are allowed to leave and come back (with a hand-stamp). This is a great solution for families that are on a tight budget or have unique dietary needs (Café Avalon does has gluten free alternatives).
Plan to Spend 2+ Hours Exploring
We spent a little over three hours exploring the different exhibits and did not make it to all of them (that was about as much time my kids could handle). There is so much to do here that you could very easily make a day of it!
Oh! And Don’t Forget to Stop by the Front Desk for a Scavenger Hunt!!
(I did not manage to get photos from all the exhibits, but here are some of my favorites)
Discover Utah
Journey to South America
The Tight Rope above the Amazon was AMAZING! So much fun!!!
Antarctic Adventure
The penguins were a ton of fun to watch…but, very hard to catch a photo of!
Ocean Explorer
Visitor Info:
Location:
Draper, UT
Hours:
Everyday 10am to 6pm
Entrance Fee(s):
– Adults (Ages 18+) $17.95
– Senior $14.95
– Military $14.95
– Student $14.95
– Teen (Ages 13-17) $14.95
– Kids (3-12) $12.95
– Child (2 & Under) Free
AQUARIUM REWARDS PROGRAM: Check out the program here.
Group Rates:
The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium offers $2 off regular general admission for groups of 20 or more. To make reservations for a group of 20 or more please call 801-355-3474 ext. 227
Memberships:
Individual Membership
Includes:
– Admission to the Aquarium for 1 year
– Unlimited 4D theatre tickets
Child 3-12:$49.95
Teens 13-17, Students, Seniors, and Military: $54.95
Adult: $59.95
Family Membership – $179.95
Includes:
– Admission to the Aquarium for 1 year for 2 named adults and up to 4 named children
– Unlimited 4D theatre tickets
* Additional children may be added for $34.95
Family Plus Membership – $249.95
Includes:
– Admission to the Aquarium for 1 year for 2 named adults and up to 4 named children
– 2 Guest admissions to the Aquarium for 1 year
– Unlimited 4D theatre tickets
* Additional children may be added for $34.95
All Loveland Living Planet Aquarium memberships include:
Convenience – Scan Your Pass at the Gate and Avoid Lines
Unlimited Admission for 1 Year
Free Admission to Tuki’s Island: Play & Party Center
Special Discounts on Gift Shop Items, Café Purchases, Stingray Feedings, Penguin Encounters, Dive Program, Summer Camps, Photo Adventure Packages, Behind The Scenes Tours, and Birthday Parties
Monthly Newsletters, eBlasts, Exclusive Offers & Promotions, Exclusive Invitations to Member Exhibit Sneak Peeks and Special Events
Phone:
801-355-FISH (3474)
Visit Website
Fun Sea Life Activities!
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