OdySea Aquarium
Arizona's premier aquarium, featuring diverse marine life, interactive exhibits, and unique attractions like a shark-viewing restroom.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
OdySea Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Arizona's premier aquarium, featuring diverse marine life, interactive exhibits, and unique attractions like a shark-viewing restroom.
"One of the coolest aquariums I've been to—and easily the biggest I've seen in Arizona. "
🎯 Shark Restroom Selfie Spot
Don't miss the famous shark tank restroom for a unique photo op!
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing OdySea Aquarium tickets in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shark Tank Restroom
Near the entrance
Wash your hands while sharks swim by! Voted #1 bathroom in the U.S. for a reason.
+1
Jellyfish Gallery
Main exhibits
Mesmerizing and calming, this gallery is one of the largest in the country.
Immersive Aqua Lobby
Entrance
A 360° digital projection experience that makes you feel submerged in the ocean.
Voyager "Ride"
Main exhibits
A unique rotating theater that offers a different perspective on the aquarium's exhibits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Plan for Extra Experiences
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Shark Restroom Selfie Spot
Don't miss the famous shark tank restroom for a unique photo op! +1
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing OdySea Aquarium tickets in advance.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes for exploring all the exhibits.
💰 Consider Add-Ons
Unique encounters like penguin feeding are extra but offer unforgettable experiences.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Shark Restroom Selfie Spot
Don't miss the famous shark tank restroom for a unique photo op! +1
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing OdySea Aquarium tickets in advance.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes for exploring all the exhibits.
💰 Consider Add-Ons
Unique encounters like penguin feeding are extra but offer unforgettable experiences.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Arizona can be hot! Bring a water bottle or be prepared to purchase drinks inside.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise OdySea Aquarium for its clean, well-maintained exhibits and the impressive variety of marine life. The unique features like the shark tank restroom and the immersive Aqua Lobby are frequently highlighted as standout attractions. While the admission price is noted as high by some, the overall experience, knowledgeable staff, and interactive elements are considered well worth it for a memorable visit.
"We had a great time at the aquarium. The tanks are very clean and the species look very healthy. The signage is informative. The educational staff is more than willing to chat. Id particularly like to thank the woman of color (not sure of her name.. she is light skinned and has long hair) who talked to us about the sturgeons. We then saw her again downstairs by the jellyfish. She demonstrated such passion for fish, reptiles, oceans, ...all things aquatic! The variety of species is excellent, and the signage was informative and easy to read.
A few comments/suggestions... I think it would be nice if this facility was not-for-profit or if a portion of the proceeds went towards charity. I also think the tanks need plant life. Plastic plants rubbed me the wrong way. This is the only home these creatures know. It should mimic natural conditions as much as possible, even if that means more work cleaning the tanks. The entry fee is also way too expensive for the average person. We only did the aquarium, not the other attractions, because of price. Overall, we were impressed by the variety of species, many ways to interact with them, the bright, clean and well-lit facility, lots of benches to sit on, and the Voyager "ride" was fun. I do wish Voyager was less geared towards kids. The recordings that played at each "stop" were very juvenile. Also, the gift shop was way too kid-oriented. We wanted to buy things, but the selection was limited for adults."
Josie G
"Odyssey Aquarium is one of the coolest aquariums I’ve been to—and easily the biggest I’ve seen in Arizona. The exhibits are impressive, and what makes it stand out are the unique encounters you can add on: meeting penguins, hanging out with a sloth, or even diving with the fish. Those experiences do come at an extra cost, but they’re a fun option if you’re looking for something special.
One of my favorite parts of the aquarium is the rotating viewing room—it’s such a neat and creative way to take in the exhibits. It really adds to the whole experience and makes it feel different from other aquariums.
Overall, Odyssey Aquarium is absolutely worth a visit. Whether you just walk through the main exhibits or splurge on one of the encounters, it’s an unforgettable experience."
Shannon
"OdySea is an amazing aquarium. The theme follows the journey of a drop of rain. The exhibits are well maintained and the staff is very knowledgeable. The environment is welcoming and easy to navigate. There are tons of graphics sharing information in many areas of science and conservation. They offer encounters and the SeaTrek which is pretty cool for those who are not dive certified. You can spend an entire day taking photos of all the animals and reading all the signs and graphics. I visited on a Sunday and the number of people that day was not crowding so it was even more enjoyable. The penguin encounter is $100 but it is definitely an investment and an unforgettable experience."
Lorenzo Fuentes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
OdySea Aquarium is located at the Arizona Boardwalk in Scottsdale. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving or ride-sharing services are often recommended.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the Arizona Boardwalk, where OdySea Aquarium is located. Parking is generally free for visitors.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to get to OdySea Aquarium, especially if you're staying nearby in Scottsdale or Phoenix.
From Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX), you can take a taxi, rideshare, or rent a car to reach OdySea Aquarium. The drive is approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes, OdySea Aquarium is part of the Arizona Boardwalk, which features other attractions like Dolphinaris Arizona, Butterfly Wonderland, and the Museum of Illusions, making it a great destination for a full day of entertainment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission tickets for OdySea Aquarium typically range from $46.98 for adults and $36.95 for children. Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, you can often find OdySea Aquarium discount tickets through various sources like Groupon, Costco, or by looking for special promotions online. Checking for OdySea Aquarium coupons can help reduce the admission cost.
You can purchase OdySea Aquarium tickets at the door, but buying them online in advance is recommended to potentially secure better pricing and avoid long queues, especially during peak times.
OdySea Aquarium may offer discounts for military personnel or students. It's advisable to check their website or contact them directly for details on eligibility and how to apply these discounts.
General admission includes access to the main aquarium exhibits, the immersive Aqua Lobby, and the Voyager rotating theater. Special encounters and experiences are usually an additional cost.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the incredible Jellyfish Gallery, the immersive Aqua Lobby, and the unique shark tank in the restroom! The Voyager rotating theater is also a highlight.
Yes, OdySea Aquarium offers several interactive experiences, including touch pools and special animal encounters like meeting penguins or sloths, though these often come with an extra fee.
OdySea Aquarium is very family-friendly, with engaging exhibits and interactive elements that children will love. The sheer variety of marine life keeps young ones entertained.
You can easily spend 2-3 hours exploring the main exhibits. If you plan to participate in special encounters or the Voyager ride, allow for at least 4 hours.
OdySea Aquarium hosts various special events throughout the year, including adults-only 'Fish & Sips' nights and themed events like 'Mermaid Magic.' Check their schedule for upcoming events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, OdySea Aquarium has food and drink options available for purchase, including snacks and meals. These are often available during special events like 'Fish & Sips.'
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside OdySea Aquarium. It's best to check their specific policy, but plan to purchase food on-site.
Food options typically include typical aquarium fare like snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. During special events, more varied food and beverage options might be available.
Yes, the Arizona Boardwalk and surrounding Talking Stick Entertainment District offer a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, if you wish to dine outside the aquarium.
Alcohol is typically served during special adults-only events like 'Fish & Sips' nights at OdySea Aquarium.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed at OdySea Aquarium for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the animals.
The Jellyfish Gallery, the Aqua Lobby, and the shark tank in the restroom are incredibly photogenic. The Voyager ride also offers unique photo opportunities.
Video recording is usually permitted for personal use, similar to photography. Be mindful of other visitors and any posted restrictions.
While tripods and professional lighting equipment might be restricted, standard cameras and smartphones are generally fine. It's always a good idea to check their official policy if you plan to use specialized gear.
Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, allowing for more unobstructed shots. The lighting inside the aquarium is designed to showcase the exhibits, so any time can be good for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family visit, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. Pack snacks and drinks if allowed, or be prepared to purchase them on-site.
💑 Couples & Date Nights
Explore fascinating exhibits together, from the glowing jellyfish to the impressive shark tanks. The aquarium also hosts 'Fish & Sips' nights, which are adults-only events featuring food, drinks, and live music, providing a fun and romantic atmosphere without the daytime crowds. Walking through the aquarium hand-in-hand, discovering new marine creatures, and sharing the awe-inspiring moments can create a special bond. The visually stunning exhibits, like the Aqua Lobby, provide plenty of conversation starters and photo opportunities.
+1 It's a chance to reconnect and experience something new and exciting together. 💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Prioritize which exhibits or experiences are most important to you. If special encounters are too expensive, focus on enjoying the main aquarium exhibits, which are extensive and impressive on their own.
+1 Consider packing your own snacks and water if permitted to save on in-aquarium purchases. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Famous Shark Restroom
+2 The largest of these sharks can be a lemon shark weighing over 250 pounds and measuring more than 8 feet long. This unexpected amenity has become a major talking point and a must-see for many visitors, offering a truly memorable and slightly surreal experience. This innovative design not only provides a unique visual spectacle but also highlights the aquarium's commitment to integrating marine life into unexpected spaces. It's a testament to how OdySea Aquarium aims to surprise and delight its guests, turning even a mundane necessity into an extraordinary moment. Many visitors share their excitement and photos of this feature online, making it a viral sensation.
+1Unique Animal Encounters
These encounters are designed to be educational and memorable, offering a deeper understanding of marine life and conservation efforts. For instance, the penguin encounter allows visitors to get close to these charming birds, while the sloth encounter offers a rare glimpse into the life of these slow-moving mammals.
The Immersive Aqua Lobby
The illusion created is one of being completely submerged in the heart of the sea, setting a captivating tone for the rest of the visit. This technologically advanced entrance is designed to immediately transport visitors into an underwater world, enhancing the overall sense of wonder and discovery. It's a visually stunning introduction that prepares guests for the diverse aquatic environments they are about to explore. The Aqua Lobby serves as a perfect prelude to the aquarium's extensive collection of marine species and exhibits.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit