Kids’ Activities at Aquarium of the Pacific

July 24, 2026
Kids Activities at Aquarium Pacific

Your child won't remember every fish they saw. They'll remember the one they got to touch. That's what makes the fun hands-on experiences for kids at the Aquarium of the Pacific so memorable. Instead of simply looking through glass, kids can get closer to marine life through interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and encourage learning. From touch pools and interactive exhibits to animal encounters and family-friendly programs, these are some of the experiences that make a visit to the aquarium so much fun.

Shark Lagoon Touch Pools

Aquarium of the Pacific - Touch Pool

At Shark Lagoon, kids can interact with sharks, rays, and other marine animals through hands-on touch pools. For many families, this is one of the highlights of the aquarium because kids get the rare chance to safely touch marine animals instead of simply looking through the glass. It is perfect for young animal lovers who want more than just viewing exhibits. Parents can encourage gentle touches and remind kids to follow staff instructions to protect the animals.

Jellyfish Touch Experience

The Jellyfish Touch Experience at Harbor Terrace gives kids a chance to encounter one of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. Kids can safely touch jellyfish while learning about their movements, survival skills, and importance in the ocean environment. It's a rare opportunity to experience marine life beyond the glass, making it a favorite stop for curious kids who love discovering the underwater world.

Lorikeet Forest Interaction

Lorikeet Forest offers a different kind of animal encounter where kids can feed colorful lorikeets using nectar cups. This engaging experience helps kids understand how animals depend on their environments while creating a memorable family moment. Parents should note that feeding the lorikeets may require an additional fee, so it is helpful to check availability before planning your visit.

Big Fish, Little Fish

Big Fish, Little Fish is a wonderful experience for young children starting to discover the wonders of the ocean. Through stories, hands-on activities, and interactive play, kids can learn about marine animals, habitats, and conservation in a fun, age-appropriate way. The program helps toddlers and preschool-aged children build curiosity about marine life while introducing simple science concepts they can understand. Be sure to check the aquarium schedule ahead of your visit since this activity runs at designated times.

Discovery Labs

Discovery Labs

Discovery Labs lets kids explore marine science through interactive activities about aquatic animals rather than simply reading exhibit signs. Kids get a closer look at how marine animals live, adapt, and survive in the ocean. It's another reason why so many families recommend these fun hands-on experiences for kids at the Aquarium of the Pacific. This interactive experience makes science more engaging, especially for school-age children who enjoy experimenting and discovering how the natural world works.

Why Kids Love These Interactive Experiences

One of the best parts about these activities is that kids are encouraged to do more than just watch. Instead of simply looking at marine animals, they can touch, explore, and ask questions that help them better understand ocean life. These experiences makes the aquarium fun for children while helping them learn important lessons about protecting the ocean, animal care, and the connection between people and the environment.

Tips for Families Visiting the Aquarium

  • Arrive early to enjoy the most popular interactive exhibits before they get busy.
  • Check the aquarium’s daily schedule before your trip to plan around special programs and experiences.
  • Pack a change of clothes if your little ones enjoy water play.

Whether your child is fascinated by sharks, curious about colorful birds, or excited to discover what lives beneath the ocean’s surface, the Aquarium of the Pacific offers plenty of ways to turn learning into a family adventure. After exploring the interactive exhibits, continue planning your family adventure with more ideas and helpful tips on how to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific and make the most of your day.