It's Cathy with My Book a Day. It's almost spring break in Utah. I'm always on the look out for something to entertain our 3 kids (18, 13, and 5) when they're out of school. SeaQuest in the Layton Hills Mall is always a great idea. There's something for everyone.
SeaQuest is a lot of fun because not only can you see a bunch of amazing ocean animals, you can interact with almost every one. My family has had a lot of fun going there and learning about the animals.
Here's what you can expect on a visit to SeaQuest interactive aquarium in Layton, Utah.
Animals
There are so many animals and creatures to see! We’ve enjoyed watching the caymans – which look like small crocodiles. It’s always fun to search their habitat for them. And when you find them, it’s fun to watch the way their eyes follow the other animals in there. I’m always wondering if they’re going to catch something to eat while we watch.
There is also a lizard room. This one is set up so that you go in through double doors into the lizards' habitat. You can use a token to feed one of the lizards some of the lettuce that they love to eat. We haven’t tried feeding them yet, but it's fun to just go in. Watch your and your kids' feet to make sure you don’t step on any lizard tails.
I love seeing the undersea animals, too! SeaQuest has an octopus and it's mesmerizing to watch it move smoothly through its tank. There are also jellyfish to watch. I’m always amazed by the crazy animals that I find in aquariums. So many fascinating things live in the ocean!
We love watching the giant tortoises roam through SeaQuest. They usually have a keeper following them around.
There are also a bunch of snakes in this section of the aquarium. Those aren’t my favorite up close, but seeing them through glass is a different story. I’ve also seen the staff carrying animals around so that people can get an up close look or even touch them. Shudder!
Related: Can you swim in the Great Salt Lake?
Birds
Next you come to the birds section. You can feed either the parakeets or the lorikeets. This is so much fun! Pay the staff member in the room a token. Then they give you a little tub of bird food. That’s when the fun starts! As soon as you open the food, the birds flock to it. They’ll land on your hands, arms, lap, or wherever they can. It’s really funny to watch them fight over the food.
We’ve only fed the smaller parakeets and it’s a little crazy. Don't let young children hold the food container if he or she will be scared of birds landing on them. I also wouldn't take my littler kids in with the lorikeets, since feeding them seems even more intense. Those birds will take the lids off of the food containers on their own. So crazy!
Related: Tips for Making the Most of Your Day at Lagoon Amusement Park
Touch pools
One of our favorite spots in the whole aquarium is the stingray tank. It’s so big! You can view the stingrays from anywhere, including underneath. If you’re adventurous, you can even go snorkeling with them.
The stingrays are used to people feeding them, so they come over to the side where you can reach them. It’s really cool to be able to touch them. And we were even brave enough once or twice to feed them shrimp.
I love the free fish pedicure and manicure. The manicure is free. You put your hand in and the tiny little fish eat the dead skin off.
A fish pedicure costs money or tokens, and it’s definitely a fun thing to try.
Related: Mrs. Cavanaugh's Chocolate Factory Tour
On the way out, watch for the sharks. You'll see smaller ones in an open tank, and some nurse sharks in an enclosed tank. These animals are just really neat to watch. I personally would never try to touch them!
Like most attractions, you exit through the gift shop. They have all kinds of ocean themed toys/books/stuffed animals that are fun for the kids. You might even find something you want to take home with you!
Tokens
Tokens are required to enjoy most the interactive experiences like feedings or fish pedicures. You'll probably want at least 1-2 per person. The official website recommends 2-3 per person. You can share some of the feeding experiences to stretch your tokens. Unused tokens are not refundable, but can be used on a return visit.
Ways to Save
There are several ways to avoid paying full price at SeaQuest Utah.
- Buy online – You'll save $2 per person if you buy your passports through the official website in advance.
- Take young children – Kids under age 2 get in free at SeaQuest. This is a great activity for families with young children.
- Buy tokens in bulk – Tokens cost $3 each, but you pay less when you buy more. Save when you buy them in bulk online with your tickets.
- Follow on Facebook – SeaQuest Utah regularly posts money-saving offers and giveaways on its Facebook page.
- America First Visa – Cardholders save 50% on single-day and annual passports, plus birthday parties and tours.
Conclusion
SeaQuest in Layton, Utah is a fun field trip for families. It's home to 1,200 animals and 300 species. It's conveniently located at Layton Hills Mall, and offers a wide variety of interactive animal exhibits.
Good to Know
Where: 1201 N Hill Field Rd #1072, Layton, Utah. SeaQuest is located inside the Layton Hills Mall.
When: Open every day except Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas Days. Check the official website for hours and updates.
How Much: $14.95 at the door for adults (ages 12+). Discounts for kids and seniors. Check the Ways to Save section above for money-saving ideas.
How Long: 1-3 hours
Amenities: free parking, restrooms, food court upstairs
Website: https://utah.visitseaquest.com/
Have a question or comment? Add it here.