SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, Melbourne
Nestled amidst the bustling cityscape of Melbourne lies a hidden gem that allows you to embark on an underwater adventure like no other – SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium.
Are you ready for an unforgettable underwater adventure? Explore the fascinating world of marine life at Melbourne Sea Life Aquarium and embark on a journey like no other!
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is one of my go-to indoor places when the weather’s wild – hot, cold, wet. The aquarium regularly promotes new features, events and activities to make it a more appealing attraction for families.
The Melbourne Aquarium is divided into several themed zones and exhibits, each showcasing a unique aspect of marine life. Some of the notable zones include:
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Antarctica: Experience the chilling cold of Antarctica and witness playful penguins in a state-of-the-art exhibit.
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Coral Caves: Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of coral reefs and the diversity of marine species that call them home.
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Mermaid Garden: This area features seahorses, sea dragons, and other enchanting creatures that resemble underwater gardens.
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Rainforest Adventure: Explore the lush rainforest environment, complete with cascading waterfalls and exotic creatures like turtles and crocodiles.
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Bay of Rays: Get up close to graceful rays and other gentle giants of the ocean as they glide through the water.
- Ocean Invaders: Immerse yourself in three interactive zones teeming with a captivating variety of mesmerizing jellyfish species.
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Please note: The Oceanarium is currently closed while the zone undergoes an exciting renovation – during this time unfortunately the sharks and rays will be off display. General admission tickets are also being offered at a discount while this is closed.
The layout of the aquarium exhibits means a bit of travelling between floors which are easily negotiated with a pram using the lift and ramps.
My favourite part is getting up close to the penguins and watching as they waddle and swim, plus seeing the cute penguin chicks snuggling into their parents. At 11:30am and 3:30pm daily you get to watch the keepers feed the penguins.
Another highlight for the kids is seeing Pinjarra, the 6-metre-long saltwater crocodile!
To take a break from the fish check out the Ice Age: No Time for Nuts 4D cinema. What is 4D cinema? Not only do you wear the kooky paper glasses, other special events occur including smoke, vibrating chairs and gusts of air. The movie goes for 10 minutes and is recommended for 4+ years, though Baby 2.0 (3yo) is still ok.
Outside the cinema in an interactive touch screen game and a wall of ice for sensory play.
The Art Aquarium is an exhibit where kids are encouraged to colour in and decorate fish. You then scan your creation and watch it come to life on the big screen. The Art Aquarium has the potential to be a great feature but unfortunately, the scanner is not working on our visit (or at least the bunch of parents who were there with us couldn’t work out how to use it).
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While many of the tanks are higher than toddler level throughout the exhibits there are special nooks where only kids can fit. My kids particularly enjoy running in and out of the toddler-sized tunnels to watch the fish from below.
There are opportunities to get hands-on in some of the tanks and you get to pick up and touch some of the sea creatures.
The fish feeding experience is low-tech but actually quite fun for toddlers because you are feeding the fish living in the massive tank. The kids love dropping the pellets into the water and watching the fish rise up to feed.
The Melbourne Aquarium is not just a place for entertainment; it’s also an excellent source of marine education. Visitors can learn about the biology, behavior, and conservation of various marine species through informative displays and educational talks.
Finally, entry to SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium doesn’t have to be expensive if you take advantage of various offers and discounts available. BUY discount tickets to SEA Life Melbourne Aquarium. You can also buy a combined discount ticket to SEA Life Melbourne Aquarium and Legoland Melbourne.
You can also buy a membership if you’re planning to visit regularly. It’s one of the best memberships for Melbourne families.
Click here for more indoor things to do and places to go in Melbourne with kids
BUY discount tickets to SEA Life Melbourne Aquarium
BUY combined discount ticket to SEA Life Melbourne Aquarium and Legoland Melbourne.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]HOT Tips:
- BUY discount tickets to SEA Life Melbourne Aquarium or a combined discount ticket to SEA Life Melbourne Aquarium and Legoland Melbourne to save time and money;
- Under 4s are free;
- Pram friendly with ramps and stairs;
- Ice Age: No Time for Nuts 4D cinema is billed at being suitable for kids 4+ years;
- Cafe on site, though I prefer eating at The Grain Store instead or BYO food;
- parents room with change facilities available;
- best access during the weekday is via public transport;
- on weekends book cheaper parking at Wilson Parking or Secure Parking;
This post contains affiliate links. If you book using the links there is no extra cost to you and I earn a small commission that helps me to provide valuable and useful information free for you! Thanks in advance – Joyce
[…] ‘Melbourne Big Ticket’ offers entry to both Sea Life Melbourne and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre for $45 per person (visits to take place within 90 […]
Great day for young children great place To go crazy and have fun.
BUT. Way too expensive Extreamly busy this time of year and a bit of an effort to get to the tanks for a close up look , but if you have an adventurous child they can push their way in; long long queues and inefficient ticketing desks. . Lots of squealing and excitement and some tears from restraint children who just want to run free and explore. Relax and enjoy an exciting time in your child or
Grandchild’s day you may not get another chance to see the awe on their faces .