Top Zoos in Seattle; Aquariums & More
If you are traveling to Seattle, you may want to stop to check out the following zoos and aquariums in the area. There is something for everyone at the Zoos in Seattle. Whether you are looking at the animals at the Woodland Park Zoo, or enjoying the marine life at the aquarium, there is plenty to do when you visit a zoo in Seattle. Zoos in Seattle are not just for families with young children, going to a zoo in Seattle is a great idea whether you are an adult that enjoys animals or a parent with children.
Woodland Park Zoo
The goal of the Woodland Park Zoo is to help save animals in the wild. The zoo hopes that visitors will be inspired to participate in conservation projects and habitat preservation projects after their trip to the zoo. The Woodland Park Zoo is located in the heart of the city and is considered to be one of the oldest zoos west of the Mississippi. For more than a century, visitors to the zoo have arrived to see the animals as well as to enjoy the beautiful landscaping on the zoo grounds. Each year, 1.2 million people visit the zoo. Visitors will enjoy strolling through the 92 acre zoo and viewing over 1,000 animals representing over 300 species. Proceeds from ticket sales help to fund the zoo as well as over 30 different conservation projects in 50 different countries across the globe in order to protect wildlife and their habitats. (http://www.zoo.org/home)
Seattle Aquarium
The Seattle Aquarium first opened its doors in 1977. It is now the 7th most popular aquarium in the United States. At the aquarium, you can learn about the Pacific Coral reefs or learn more about marine animals. For example, sea otters eat more than 25% of their body weight each day.
A touch tank and the tidal tank are the perfect way for visitors to experience marine life close up. Visitors can also watch the dive shows and view the animals during feeding times. In addition to the wonderful exhibits and hands on activities, friendly staff and volunteers are available to answer any questions that visitors may have about the aquarium or the animals at the facility.
Events are planned at the aquarium throughout the year including holiday events and a toddler story time, as well as events like Octopus week. Besides the exhibits and the special events, visitors to the aquarium should also take the time to view the octopus display as well as the “animal oddity” display. Visitors will also enjoy learning more about underwater exploration at the NASA kiosk, learning about ecology, as well as learning about various research and conservation projects the aquarium is funding around the world including those in the Puget Sound area. (http://www.seattleaquarium.org/)
