Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

About

Loveland Living Planet Aquarium in Draper, Utah brings the world's ecosystems under one roof. Ranked as the ninth largest aquarium in the nation, it's a destination that surprises visitors who might not expect world-class marine life exhibits in a landlocked state.

The aquarium is organized around distinct habitat zones. Journey through Ocean Explorer to watch sharks glide overhead in a massive tunnel exhibit. Step into the humid warmth of the South American rainforest gallery, where tropical birds fly freely and poison dart frogs cling to branches just inches away. The Antarctic Adventure area introduces you to gentoo penguins in a climate-controlled habitat that recreates their icy home.

Kids and families will find plenty of hands-on experiences throughout. Touch pools let visitors feel the rough skin of a stingray or the bumpy shell of a horseshoe crab. Free daily presentations include Animal Meet-and-Greets, Shark Diver Talks, and educational shows that bring the science to life without feeling like a classroom.

Beyond the permanent exhibits, the aquarium hosts rotating seasonal displays and special events throughout the year. There's also an outdoor area with splash pads and play structures that make it easy to spend a full day here, especially during warmer months.

Practical details: the aquarium sits just off I-15 in Draper, about 20 miles south of downtown Salt Lake City. Ample parking is available on-site. Plan for at least two to three hours to see everything at a comfortable pace, though many families stay longer. A cafe on-site offers standard options if you need to refuel. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, which is recommended during peak times like school breaks and weekends.

Whether you're traveling with young children, visiting with grandparents, or exploring on your own, the Living Planet Aquarium offers an engaging experience that's well-organized and easy to enjoy at your own pace.

Accessibility

Loveland Living Planet Aquarium is designed to be fully wheelchair accessible. Every habitat viewing area can be reached with a wheelchair or other mobility aids. The multi-story exhibits include ADA-compliant ramp pathways, so visitors don't need to rely solely on elevators to move between levels. A public elevator is located in the main lobby for direct access to the second floor.

The facility offers ample on-site parking. Accessible parking spaces are available close to the main entrance.

Pathways throughout the aquarium are wide and smooth, accommodating wheelchairs, power chairs, and strollers comfortably. The layout allows visitors to move through exhibits at their own pace without bottlenecks in most areas.

For visitors with sensory sensitivities, the aquarium includes some naturally darker and quieter gallery spaces (like the deep ocean exhibits), while other areas such as the rainforest zone may be warmer and more humid with ambient sounds. Contact the aquarium directly to ask about designated quiet times or sensory-friendly events, as many aquariums now offer these programs seasonally.

Restrooms are available on multiple levels of the facility. Contact the venue for specific details about family restrooms or companion-care restroom availability.

Service animals are generally permitted in accordance with ADA guidelines. For questions about specific accommodations, assistive listening devices, or other accessibility needs, contact Loveland Living Planet Aquarium directly before your visit to confirm current offerings and any temporary changes to access.

More accessible places in Utah

• Natural History Museum of Utah (Salt Lake City)
• Arches National Park (Moab)
• Bryce Canyon National Park (Bryce)
• Canyonlands National Park (Moab)
• Red Butte Garden (Salt Lake City)
• Dinosaur National Monument (Jensen)