If you’re searching for a place where sharks swim overhead, penguins waddle with style, and electric eels flash their stuff, look no further than the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium. Located at 12033 Lone Peak Pkwy, Draper, UT, this aquatic wonderland is more than a museum- it’s a splashy adventure for all ages. Whether you’re a marine enthusiast or just want to see a toucan eat breakfast, this aquarium will have you grinning like a dolphin in no time.
A World of Water Wonders
Step inside and you’ll find yourself surrounded by nearly 2,500 animals from over 450 species. The aquarium is cleverly divided into four main exhibits, each with its unique flavor:
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Ocean Explorer: Head straight to the touch pool and dare to stroke a small leopard shark or a stingray. Don’t miss the enormous 300,000-gallon shark tank, home to 28 different sharks, stingrays, a green moray eel, and a 40-pound green sea turtle with a backstory worthy of a movie.
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Journey to South America: Meet a 14-foot anaconda, piranhas, caimans, and electric eels. The toucan aviary is a must-see, and the giant tank houses arowana, pacu, giant catfish, and a five-foot arapaima- basically, the sumo wrestler of the fish world.
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Discover Utah: Explore the aquatic life native to the Beehive State and learn how local ecosystems thrive.
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Antarctic Adventure: Chill out with the penguins and discover how these tuxedoed birds keep their cool.
Hands-On Fun and Animal Encounters
This is not your average “look but don’t touch” museum. The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium invites you to get up close with its animal encounters. Book a Penguin or Stingray Encounter and you’ll come away with a story that will make your friends jealous. There’s always something happening, whether it’s a feeding demonstration or a pop-up educational session. You might even catch a seahorse doing its underwater dance or learn how a toucan snacks in style.
When to Visit: Business Hours Made Simple
No need to memorize a complicated schedule. The aquarium is open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with the last entry at 5:00 p.m.. On Monday nights, you get bonus hours- doors stay open until 8:00 p.m., with the last entry at 7:00 p.m.. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy a stroll through the exhibits or squeeze in a quick after-work visit.
Why Draper Is the Place to Be
Let’s be honest: after a day spent marveling at river monsters and penguins, you might start wondering what it’s like to live nearby. Draper, Utah, isn’t just the home of the aquarium but also a vibrant community with a lot going for it. The area offers a blend of outdoor adventure and modern amenities. You’ll find top-rated schools, a strong sense of community, and a calendar full of local events.
Commuting is a breeze, thanks to the excellent transit options and quick access to Salt Lake City. And if you love the outdoors, Draper’s miles of hiking and biking trails, family-friendly parks, and even a golf course will keep you busy year-round. Shopping, dining, and entertainment are all within easy reach, making it a fantastic place for families, professionals, and anyone who wants a little excitement mixed with their daily routine.
Plan Your Visit to Loveland Living Planet Aquarium Today
Ready to trade screen time for shark time? The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium at 12033 Lone Peak Pkwy, Draper, UT, is waiting to wow you. With interactive exhibits, up-close animal encounters, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for family outings, date days, or solo adventures.
The aquarium’s daily hours from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (with extended hours until 8:00 p.m. on Mondays) make it easy to fit into any schedule. Dive in and discover why this Draper destination is making waves in Utah- and why you might just want to call the neighborhood home.
Source: livingplanetaquarium.org
Header Image Source: Loveland Living Planet Aquarium – GMB
