How to Visit OdySea Aquarium with Kids

Visiting OdySea Aquarium in Scottsdale, Arizona, is more than just a day out—it’s an immersive educational adventure that sparks curiosity, fosters environmental awareness, and creates lasting memories for families. With over 500 species and more than 2 million gallons of water, OdySea Aquarium offers a uniquely engaging experience for children of all ages. But navigating a large, interactive aquarium with young visitors requires thoughtful planning. From managing energy levels and attention spans to choosing the right exhibits and timing your visit, a successful trip hinges on preparation. This guide walks you through every step of planning and executing a seamless, enjoyable, and enriching family outing to OdySea Aquarium with kids. Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, school-age children, or teens, this comprehensive tutorial ensures your family gets the most out of the experience—without the stress.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Visit During Off-Peak Times

One of the most critical decisions you’ll make is choosing the right day and time to visit. OdySea Aquarium sees its highest traffic on weekends, holidays, and during school breaks. To avoid long lines, crowded exhibits, and overheated spaces, aim for a weekday visit—Tuesday through Thursday is ideal. Arrive early, ideally within the first hour of opening (10:00 AM). Early mornings mean fewer people, cooler temperatures in the galleries, and better photo opportunities without crowds in the background. If you must visit on a weekend, consider arriving right before closing (between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM). Many families leave by then, and you’ll enjoy quieter halls and shorter wait times for interactive experiences like the touch pools.

2. Purchase Tickets Online in Advance

Buying tickets online not only saves time at the entrance but often provides a discount compared to walk-up pricing. Visit the official OdySea Aquarium website and select the “Family Ticket” option, which typically includes admission for two adults and up to three children. Look for seasonal promotions—many occur during summer, spring break, or local school holidays. If your child qualifies for special programs (such as military, educator, or museum reciprocal programs), verify eligibility and bring proper identification. Digital tickets can be scanned directly from your phone, eliminating the need to print or queue. Avoid third-party resellers; only purchase through the official site to ensure validity and access to real-time updates on exhibit closures or special events.

3. Pack Smart: What to Bring (and What to Leave Behind)

Preparation is key when visiting with children. Here’s a practical packing list:

• Snacks and water bottles – While the aquarium has cafes, bringing your own healthy snacks helps manage hunger without long waits. Avoid messy or strongly scented foods.
• Lightweight stroller or baby carrier – The facility is large, and young children tire quickly. A collapsible stroller is ideal for toddlers and preschoolers. Note: strollers are permitted throughout the facility.
• Extra clothes and wipes – Accidents happen. Pack a change of clothes for younger kids, especially if they plan to participate in touch pools or water-themed exhibits.
• Sunscreen and hats – Even if you’re staying indoors, the parking lot and outdoor areas require sun protection. Arizona’s UV index is high year-round.
• Portable charger – Cameras, tablets, and phones will be in heavy use. Bring a small power bank to keep devices charged.
• Quiet toys or books – For waiting periods or rest breaks, bring a small fidget toy or a picture book about marine life.

Avoid bringing large bags, backpacks, or strollers with extendable handles that block walkways. Also, leave behind balloons, noisy toys, and items that could disturb animals or other guests.

4. Download the OdySea Aquarium App

The official OdySea Aquarium app is a free, essential tool for families. It features an interactive map, real-time show schedules, animal encounter times, and augmented reality (AR) features that bring marine creatures to life through your phone’s camera. Download it before you arrive. Use the app to locate restrooms, nursing stations, and quiet zones. It also sends push notifications if a show starts earlier than scheduled or if an exhibit is temporarily closed. For children, the app includes a digital “Animal Explorer” badge system—kids earn stickers by visiting different zones, making the trip feel like a game.

5. Map Out Your Route Based on Your Child’s Age

OdySea Aquarium is divided into distinct themed zones. Tailor your route to your child’s developmental stage and attention span.

For toddlers (ages 1–3): Start with the Touch Pools and Shark Tunnel. These are visually stimulating and tactile. Toddlers love watching rays glide over their hands and seeing large fish swim overhead. Keep the visit short—aim for 60–90 minutes. Take breaks on benches near the Pacific Northwest exhibit, which features calm water sounds and gentle lighting.

For preschoolers and early elementary (ages 4–7): Follow this sequence: Touch Pools → Shark Tunnel → Sea Otter Cove → Penguin Pavilion → Discovery Center. The Sea Otter Cove is a crowd favorite—watching otters play, groom, and splash is captivating. The Discovery Center offers hands-on activities like sorting shells, matching animal tracks, and listening to whale songs. These exhibits are designed to be interactive and educational without overwhelming young minds.

For older children (ages 8–12): Add the Deep Sea Adventure and Amazon River Journey exhibits. These feature larger tanks, immersive lighting, and detailed signage about ecosystems and conservation. The Deep Sea Adventure includes a replica of a submersible and real deep-sea specimens like the giant isopod. Encourage kids to read the placards aloud or ask staff questions.

For teens (ages 13+): Prioritize the Marine Science Lab and Conservation Zone. These areas highlight research efforts, endangered species, and climate impact. Teens often enjoy the “Ask a Marine Biologist” sessions, which occur daily at scheduled times.

6. Schedule Around Live Shows and Feeding Times

Live demonstrations are highlights of any aquarium visit. Plan your route around these timed events to maximize engagement and minimize waiting.

• Sea Lion Show – Held twice daily (11:30 AM and 3:00 PM). Arrive 20 minutes early to secure front-row seats. The show includes tricks, vocalizations, and educational facts about sea lion behavior and conservation.
• Penguin Feeding – Occurs at 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM. Watch penguins dive and catch fish. Staff explain feeding habits and how zoos support wild populations.
• Shark Feeding – Daily at 2:00 PM. A dramatic event where divers feed sharks in the 400,000-gallon open-ocean tank. Loud cheers and gasps are common—prepare younger kids for the noise.
• Touch Tank Guided Sessions – Offered hourly between 10:30 AM and 4:30 PM. Trained educators guide children through safe interactions with starfish, sea urchins, and hermit crabs. These are ideal for hands-on learning.

Use the app or check the daily schedule board near the entrance to confirm times. Don’t try to see every show—select one or two based on your child’s interests. Overloading the schedule leads to fatigue and frustration.

7. Take Strategic Breaks

Even the most enthusiastic children need downtime. OdySea Aquarium has several quiet areas designed for rest:

• The Family Lounge near the main entrance has comfortable seating, changing tables, and a small play corner with books and puzzles.
• The Outdoor Courtyard offers shaded benches, water fountains, and a small splash pad for cooling off.
• Benches are strategically placed near the Amazon River Journey and Seahorse Sanctuary exhibits, where ambient lighting and slow-moving fish create a calming atmosphere.

Plan a 15–20 minute break every 60–75 minutes. Use this time to hydrate, snack, and let your child process what they’ve seen. Avoid rushing—children retain more when they’re relaxed.

8. Engage Your Child with Questions and Activities

Passive observation is less memorable than active participation. Turn your visit into a learning adventure by asking open-ended questions:

• “What do you think this fish eats?”
• “Why do you think the octopus changes color?”
• “How is this animal different from the one we saw earlier?”

Bring a simple “aquarium bingo” card you’ve printed or created on your phone. Include images of common animals like penguins, sea turtles, stingrays, and seahorses. Children earn points for spotting each one. You can also encourage journaling: give your child a small notebook and crayons to draw their favorite animal and write one fact about it.

9. End with a Souvenir and Reflection

Before leaving, stop by the gift shop. Choose a meaningful, educational souvenir—a plush animal, a marine life coloring book, or a “Junior Marine Biologist” badge. Avoid overbuying; let your child pick one item as a reward. After exiting, take a few minutes to reflect: “What was your favorite part?” “What surprised you?” “Would you like to learn more about sharks next time?” This reinforces learning and builds anticipation for future visits.

Best Practices

Set Realistic Expectations

Children’s attention spans vary widely. Don’t expect your 3-year-old to sit through every exhibit. Focus on quality over quantity. Even 2–3 well-experienced zones can be more impactful than rushing through 10. Let your child lead—follow their curiosity. If they’re fascinated by the jellyfish tank, spend 20 minutes there. If they’re done with the sharks after five minutes, move on.

Teach Aquarium Etiquette

Before you arrive, explain simple rules: “We walk quietly so the animals can rest,” “We don’t tap on the glass,” “We use gentle hands in the touch pools.” Role-play these behaviors at home. Children respond well to positive reinforcement: “You’re doing such a great job being quiet—look how the sea turtle is swimming calmly!”

Use the “One Exhibit at a Time” Rule

Overstimulation is a common issue in large aquariums. Instead of trying to see everything, pick one exhibit, observe it fully, then move on. Stand still. Watch the movements. Count the fish. Notice the colors. This mindful observation deepens understanding and reduces sensory overload.

Prepare for Sensory Sensitivities

Some children are sensitive to loud noises, bright lights, or crowds. OdySea Aquarium offers sensory-friendly maps and quiet hours on select days—check their website in advance. If your child has sensory needs, request a “sensory kit” at guest services (includes noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, and visual schedules). Staff are trained to accommodate special needs and will gladly adjust lighting or timing if needed.

Encourage Environmental Awareness

Use the visit to start conversations about ocean conservation. Point out signs that say “Protect Our Coral Reefs” or “Plastic Hurts Turtles.” Ask: “What can we do at home to help?” Simple actions like using reusable water bottles or picking up litter make the lesson tangible. Many children leave with a newfound respect for marine life and a desire to protect it.

Bring a Sibling Strategy

If you’re visiting with multiple children of different ages, assign roles. Let the older child be the “Animal Detective” and find specific creatures. Give the younger child a “Feeding Assistant” job—helping to choose which snack to bring to the touch pool. This fosters cooperation and reduces sibling rivalry.

Photography Tips for Families

Don’t let your camera become a distraction. Use natural light when possible. Avoid flash—it can stress animals. Focus on candid moments: your child’s face lighting up at a penguin’s waddle, their tiny hand touching a starfish. Take a few photos, then put the phone away. Memories are made through presence, not pixels.

Tools and Resources

Official OdySea Aquarium Website

The website (www.odysea.com) is your primary resource. It includes:

• Daily show and feeding schedules
• Interactive 3D map of the aquarium
• Membership and discount options
• Accessibility information
• Seasonal events and educational programs

Free Printable Activity Sheets

OdySea offers downloadable “Explorer Kits” for different age groups. These include:

• My First Aquarium – For ages 2–5: simple matching games and animal coloring pages
• Junior Marine Biologist – For ages 6–10: scavenger hunts, fact sheets, and journal prompts
• Conservation Challenge – For ages 11+: research questions and action plans to reduce plastic use

Print these at home and bring them along. Completing the activities earns a sticker or badge at the front desk.

Children’s Books to Read Before Your Visit

Build excitement and background knowledge with age-appropriate books:

• “The Rainbow Fish” by Marcus Pfister – Teaches sharing and beauty in diversity
• “A Sea of Treasures” by Mary M. Cerullo – Introduces ocean habitats with vivid illustrations
• “Penguins: The Ultimate Guide” by Steve Jenkins – Perfect for curious older kids
• “The Octopus Scientists” by Sy Montgomery – Engaging narrative for middle-grade readers

Mobile Apps for Marine Learning

Supplement your visit with these free apps:

• SeaLife Base – Identifies marine species from photos
• Marine Life Quiz – Fun trivia game for kids
• Google Expeditions AR – Use your phone to project 3D coral reefs or whales into your living room

Local Library Resources

Many public libraries offer free aquarium passes through their “Museum Pass” programs. Check your local branch—some even include free parking vouchers or discounted family memberships. This can reduce the cost of admission by up to 50%.

Parenting Blogs and YouTube Channels

Search for “OdySea Aquarium with kids” on YouTube. Channels like “Family Adventures AZ” and “Arizona Mom Life” post real-time vlogs showing how families navigate the aquarium. These videos offer practical tips on stroller routes, best photo spots, and how to handle meltdowns.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Garcia Family – Two Toddlers, One Successful Day

The Garcias visited on a Tuesday morning with their 2-year-old and 4-year-old. They arrived at 9:45 AM, skipped the gift shop until the end, and focused only on the Touch Pools, Shark Tunnel, and Sea Otter Cove. They brought a stroller, packed apple slices and water, and used the app’s AR feature to “find” a hidden dolphin in the exhibit. After 90 minutes, they took a break in the courtyard, then left before the crowds arrived. “We didn’t see half the aquarium,” says Mom Elena, “but my kids asked to go back next week. That’s a win.”

Example 2: The Chen Family – A 9-Year-Old’s Marine Science Project

After learning about coral reefs in school, 9-year-old Liam asked to visit OdySea for his science project. His parents planned a 3-hour visit focused on the Deep Sea Adventure and Conservation Zone. They used the printable “Conservation Challenge” worksheet and interviewed a staff member about how aquariums help endangered species. Liam recorded his findings on a voice memo. He later presented his project to his class using photos from the app. His teacher awarded him “Best Research Project of the Month.”

Example 3: The Rivera Family – Sensory-Friendly Visit

Seven-year-old Sofia has autism and struggles with loud environments. The Riveras contacted OdySea in advance and requested a sensory-friendly visit. They arrived during a designated quiet hour (first Saturday of the month), received noise-canceling headphones, and were given a private guided tour of the Seahorse Sanctuary. Staff dimmed lights and reduced commentary. “For the first time, Sofia sat still for 20 minutes watching a seahorse,” says Dad Carlos. “We didn’t expect that. We’ll be back.”

Example 4: The Thompson Twins – Sibling Teamwork

Twins Mia (10) and Jake (7) visited with their parents. Mom gave Mia the “Animal Detective” role and Jake the “Snack Assistant.” They had to find five specific animals and bring back a picture of each. Jake got to choose which snack they ate during the break. “It kept them both engaged,” says Mom Lisa. “No fighting. Just teamwork.”

FAQs

Can I bring a stroller into OdySea Aquarium?

Yes, collapsible strollers are permitted throughout the facility. Wide aisles and elevators make navigation easy. However, strollers with extendable handles or large frames may be difficult to maneuver in tight exhibit areas. Consider a lightweight, umbrella-style stroller for convenience.

Are there nursing or changing facilities?

Yes. Family restrooms with changing tables are located near the main entrance, the Sea Otter Cove, and the Discovery Center. There is also a dedicated Family Lounge with comfortable seating, a microwave, and a sink for bottle warming.

Is the aquarium wheelchair accessible?

Yes. OdySea Aquarium is fully ADA-compliant. Elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms are available throughout. Wheelchairs and scooters can be rented at the front desk on a first-come, first-served basis.

How long should we plan to spend at OdySea Aquarium with kids?

Most families spend 2–4 hours. For toddlers, 1.5–2 hours is ideal. For school-age children, 3–4 hours allows time for exhibits, shows, and breaks. Avoid staying longer than 4 hours—overstimulation can lead to meltdowns.

Can kids touch the animals?

Yes, but only in designated touch pools supervised by staff. These include starfish, sea urchins, and hermit crabs. Never touch any animals outside these zones. Staff provide instructions on how to touch safely and gently.

Are there food options inside the aquarium?

Yes. The Coral Café offers kid-friendly meals like chicken nuggets, pizza, sandwiches, fruit, and yogurt. There are also snack stands selling popcorn, ice cream, and bottled drinks. Outside food and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed in designated areas.

What if my child has a meltdown?

There are quiet zones and family lounges where you can step away from the crowds. Staff are trained to assist and will offer water, a quiet space, or even a break in a private room if needed. Don’t feel embarrassed—this happens to everyone. Your child’s comfort comes first.

Can I buy tickets at the door?

Yes, but tickets are often more expensive than online purchases. During peak seasons, timed-entry tickets may sell out. To guarantee entry and save money, buy online in advance.

Is there parking? Is it free?

Yes. OdySea has a large, free parking lot adjacent to the entrance. It’s well-lit, secure, and includes designated family parking spaces near the entrance. No validation is required.

Can I bring a service animal?

Yes. Service animals are welcome. Emotional support animals are not permitted for the safety of the marine life and other guests.

Conclusion

Visiting OdySea Aquarium with kids is not just about seeing fish in tanks—it’s about igniting wonder, building empathy for nature, and creating shared family memories that last a lifetime. With thoughtful planning, age-appropriate pacing, and a focus on engagement over exhaustion, your visit can transform from a routine outing into a meaningful educational journey. Use the tools, follow the best practices, and let your child’s curiosity guide you. Whether your child is mesmerized by a jellyfish’s glow, fascinated by a penguin’s waddle, or inspired to protect the ocean after learning about plastic pollution, OdySea Aquarium offers more than entertainment—it offers transformation. Remember: the goal isn’t to see everything. It’s to experience something deeply. And with this guide, you’re ready to make that happen.