Great Lakes Aquarium, Duluth - Image 1
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Great Lakes Aquarium

4.5
·5k reviews·Duluth, United States

Discover the wonders of freshwater ecosystems at the Great Lakes Aquarium, featuring interactive exhibits and diverse aquatic life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Friday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdMedium
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Great Lakes Aquarium, Duluth - Image 1

Great Lakes Aquarium

Best Time

Friday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the wonders of freshwater ecosystems at the Great Lakes Aquarium, featuring interactive exhibits and diverse aquatic life.

4.5
(5k reviews)

"This place blew our expectations out of the water! A great aquarium and zoo combination."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Fees

Be aware that parking costs extra ($10), so factor that into your budget.

⏰ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least 3 hours to see everything; you might miss areas if you rush!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Otter Show

Otter Show

Otter Exhibit

Catch the playful otters during their scheduled show for an energetic and engaging experience.

Reddit
Touch Tanks

Touch Tanks

Various Exhibits

Get up close with fascinating marine life like sturgeon and jellyfish in these interactive touch pools.

Reddit
Lake Superior & Michigan Exhibits

Lake Superior & Michigan Exhibits

Great Lakes Basin Gallery

Explore the diverse aquatic life native to these iconic freshwater lakes.

Instagram
Electric Eel

Electric Eel

Exotic Animals Gallery

Witness the mesmerizing power of the electric eel in a captivating display.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Focus on Freshwater Wonders

Unlike many aquariums, Great Lakes Aquarium highlights freshwater ecosystems of the Great Lakes Basin and beyond. Prepare for an educational journey into unique aquatic life you won't find elsewhere. TikTokInstagram

Plan for Interactive Fun

This aquarium is packed with interactive exhibits and touch tanks, making it a hit for kids. Allocate at least 3 hours to fully explore and enjoy all the hands-on experiences. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Friday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Otter shows and interactive fun
Crowd
High
When
Winter weekdays
Why
Escape the cold, fewer visitors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Emily PSA: Dont mess with Lake Superior 🧊👹 #ssmataafa #greatlakes #lakesuperior #spookylakemonth #spookylake #greenscreen #greenscreenvideo
@geodesaurus
381.4K likes • 2.3M views

🚗 Parking Fees

Be aware that parking costs extra ($10), so factor that into your budget. Reddit

⏰ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least 3 hours to see everything; you might miss areas if you rush! Reddit

Let’s Go Gambllng at Great Lakes Aquarium! There’s more than just fish! Info/tix at destinationduluth.co/GLAquarium
destination_duluth
99 likes • 5.3K views
<Special Announcement> Great Lakes Aquarium would like to officially announce that we’ve recently participated in the rescue of some animals surrendered by the local SeaQuest closure. At the time of posting, our quarantine aquarist has confirmed that all the animals are eating and adjusting well. Due to the nature of the situation, conditions are subject to change. However, we are optimistic at...
greatlakesaquarium
18.7K likes • 445.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Downtown? Maybe Not.

Walking from downtown with kids might be tough; driving and parking is recommended. Reddit

🐠 New Exhibits Often

Keep an eye out for new galleries like 'Oceans Alive' for fresh experiences. Instagram

As part of our partnership with the Great Lakes Aquarium, if you visit the aquarium this Friday or Saturday, you will receive free tickets for you and your family to attend our playoff game on Saturday night! Forget everything that happened before—this is do-or-die territory. Every snap, every tackle, every second on that clock shapes our destiny. The Harbor Monsters are ready to defend Duluth’s ...
mnmonstersfootball
144 likes • 4.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Fees

Be aware that parking costs extra ($10), so factor that into your budget. Reddit

⏰ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least 3 hours to see everything; you might miss areas if you rush! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Downtown? Maybe Not.

Walking from downtown with kids might be tough; driving and parking is recommended. Reddit

🐠 New Exhibits Often

Keep an eye out for new galleries like 'Oceans Alive' for fresh experiences. Instagram

🤝 Community Partnerships

Check for special events or ticket deals through local partnerships. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Great Lakes Aquarium for its engaging interactive exhibits and focus on freshwater life, making it a hit for families. While some find the parking fee a bit steep and wish for more exotic saltwater species, the overall experience is highly positive, with many planning return visits. Reddit

"Always a great experience with ample ever changing exhibits! Excellent place for kids to learn and burn off energy. My son LOVES the otters so we always come during the otter show. We wish they were out more. Consider providing an opportunity to touch their paws. It would really add to the experience and may help with enrichment given how social they are. The snapping turtle and the octopus really shined this trip seemingly interacting with us through the glass. It was really neat to see!"

Emilee Olson

"Visited on a Friday afternoon. We walked from downtown wasn't my favorite with kids so I do recommend just driving and parking there no matter how close you are. There was a lot of interactive things for young kids! We had a great time and will be back. We spent so much time we ended up missing the whole Ocean area. Plan for a good 3 hours, this place blew our expectations out of the water!"

Jon Ross

"This aquarium provided such a great experience! The variety of fish and wildlife was incredible! It was like visiting an aquarium and zoo combination. There is a touch pond stocked with Sturgeon (which are so gorgeous) and also a jellyfish touch area that were both open. The interactive learning stations geared for kiddos are awesome. The habitat for each beautiful creature looked cleaned and lovingly tended to. This was such a great aquarium to visit and enjoy! I cannot wait to return on our next family visit. I would recommend a visit to anyone! 5 Stars indeed!"

Alexis Personal

What People Like

Interactive exhibits
Kid-friendly activities
Freshwater focus

What People Dislike

Parking fee
Limited saltwater exhibits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Great Lakes Aquarium is located on the waterfront in Duluth, MN. While it's possible to walk from downtown, many visitors recommend driving and parking due to the distance with children. Parking is available on-site for a fee. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the Great Lakes Aquarium, but it comes with an additional charge of $10. Reddit

Information on public transport routes to the Great Lakes Aquarium can be found on the Duluth transit authority's website. It's advisable to check schedules in advance. (General knowledge, no specific citation available)

The Great Lakes Aquarium is designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, with ramps and elevators available. (General knowledge, no specific citation available)

Duluth is accessible by car via major highways. For those flying in, the nearest major airport is Duluth International Airport (DLH), which is a short drive from the aquarium. (General knowledge, no specific citation available)

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Great Lakes Aquarium is approximately $20 per adult. Prices for children and seniors may vary. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons, to save time and potentially secure your entry. Check the Great Lakes Aquarium website for online ticketing options. Instagram

The Great Lakes Aquarium typically operates with daily hours, but these can vary seasonally. It's best to consult their official website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit. (General knowledge, no specific citation available)

Look out for potential discounts through partnerships with local organizations or special event days. For example, there have been promotions offering free playoff game tickets with aquarium visits. Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking a time slot online can help manage crowd flow and ensure entry, especially during busy periods. Check the aquarium's ticketing page for details. (General knowledge, no specific citation available)

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find a diverse range of freshwater aquatic life, including fish from the Great Lakes, otters, electric eels, sturgeon, octopuses, and various reptiles and birds. They also have interactive touch tanks. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! The aquarium features numerous interactive learning stations and touch pools specifically designed for children, making it a fun and educational experience. Reddit

Most visitors spend around 3 hours exploring the aquarium to fully enjoy the exhibits and interactive elements. Reddit

Yes, the aquarium often has scheduled otter shows that are very popular. Check the daily schedule upon arrival for any other special presentations or feeding times. Reddit

'Oceans Alive' is a newer gallery at the Great Lakes Aquarium that features unique marine life, including the captivating weedy seadragon. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Great Lakes Aquarium typically has a cafe or snack bar offering light refreshments and snacks. For full meals, consider dining in the surrounding Duluth area. (General knowledge, no specific citation available)

Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the Great Lakes Aquarium, though exceptions may be made for baby food or specific dietary needs. It's best to confirm their policy. (General knowledge, no specific citation available)

Yes, the aquarium is located in a vibrant area of Duluth with many restaurants and cafes nearby, offering a variety of dining options. (General knowledge, no specific citation available)

Aquarium cafes often serve grab-and-go items like sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages. (General knowledge, no specific citation available)

The Great Lakes Aquarium may offer party packages or rental spaces for special events like birthday parties. Inquire directly with their events department for details. (General knowledge, no specific citation available)

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside the Great Lakes Aquarium for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the animals. Instagram

The touch tanks, the otter exhibit, and the unique displays like the electric eel or seadragons offer great photo opportunities. The waterfront views outside are also scenic. Instagram

While tripods and professional video equipment might require special permission, standard cameras and smartphones are usually fine. Always check signage or ask staff if unsure. (General knowledge, no specific citation available)

The lighting can be dim in some exhibit areas to mimic natural underwater environments, which can be challenging for photography. Using a camera with good low-light performance or a phone with a night mode is helpful. Instagram

Short videos for personal social media are typically permitted. For commercial filming or extensive video projects, you'll likely need to contact the aquarium's media relations department. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Great Lakes Aquarium is a fantastic choice for families. Its focus on interactive exhibits and touch tanks will keep children entertained and educated for hours. InstagramReddit The otter shows are a particular hit with younger visitors. Reddit

Plan for at least 3 hours to allow kids to fully engage with the displays without feeling rushed. While walking from downtown is possible, driving and parking is often easier with little ones. Reddit The aquarium is not overwhelming, making it perfect for toddlers and young children. Reddit

📚 Educational Visitors

For those interested in learning about aquatic ecosystems, the Great Lakes Aquarium offers a unique deep dive into freshwater environments. Its focus on the Great Lakes Basin provides specific regional insights. Instagram

The interactive learning stations and detailed exhibits cater to a curious mind, offering a wealth of information on species, habitats, and conservation efforts. It's an excellent opportunity to understand the delicate balance of freshwater life. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

While the lighting can be challenging in some exhibits, the Great Lakes Aquarium offers unique subjects for photographers. Capture the playful otters, the mesmerizing electric eel, or the intricate details of the seadragons. Instagram+1

Be mindful of flash restrictions and consider using a camera with good low-light capabilities. The touch tanks also provide excellent opportunities for close-up shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Focus on Freshwater Ecosystems

The Great Lakes Aquarium stands out by dedicating its exhibits to the fascinating world of freshwater ecosystems. Unlike many aquariums that focus on saltwater marine life, this institution dives deep into the biodiversity of the Great Lakes Basin and other freshwater environments. Visitors can learn about the unique challenges and inhabitants of these vital water systems. Instagram

This focus provides a different perspective on aquatic life, showcasing species like sturgeon, lake trout, and various freshwater invertebrates. It's an educational opportunity to understand the importance of conservation efforts for these often-overlooked environments. The aquarium aims to foster a connection between visitors and the natural world right in their backyard. TikTokInstagram

From the mighty Lake Superior to the intricate details of smaller streams, the exhibits are designed to be both informative and engaging. This approach makes it a valuable destination for students, families, and anyone interested in the natural history of the region. Instagram

Interactive Learning for All Ages

One of the most praised aspects of the Great Lakes Aquarium is its commitment to interactive learning. The aquarium is designed to be hands-on, with numerous touch tanks and engaging exhibits that encourage participation. Children, in particular, will find plenty to explore and discover, making it an excellent destination for family outings. InstagramReddit

Visitors can get up close and personal with creatures like sturgeon and jellyfish in the touch pools, offering a tactile experience that brings the underwater world to life. Interactive stations and educational displays are strategically placed throughout the aquarium, providing fun facts and insights into the lives of the animals. Reddit

This emphasis on interaction ensures that learning is not just passive observation but an active, memorable experience. It's this engaging approach that leads many visitors to describe the aquarium as a place that 'blew our expectations out of the water.' Reddit

Animal Rescue and New Additions

The Great Lakes Aquarium has demonstrated a commitment to animal welfare through its involvement in animal rescues. Recently, they participated in the rescue of animals surrendered from a local closure, ensuring these creatures found a safe and well-cared-for environment. Instagram

This initiative highlights the aquarium's dedication to conservation and providing a home for animals in need. The rescued animals are carefully monitored and adjusted to their new surroundings by quarantine aquarists. Instagram

Furthermore, the aquarium continually enhances its visitor experience with new galleries, such as the 'Oceans Alive' exhibit, which features unique species like the weedy seadragon. These additions keep the exhibits fresh and exciting for repeat visitors. Instagram