Vancouver Aquarium

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Vancouver Aquarium is as entertaining as it is educational

Sea Otters holding hands at Vancouver Aquarium cc licensed photo by mindluge

Located inside beautiful Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium is Canada's largest aquarium and the fifth largest in North America.

One of Vancouver's top tourist attractions for over 50 years, this was the first Aquarium in the world to capture and display an Orca whale, although they no longer keep Orcas in captivity. Sea lions, sea otters and a rescued dolphin are just a few of the thousands of species on display. The Aquarium, the largest in Canada, is currently home over 50,000 animals native to areas ranging from Canada's northern Artic, to local BC waters to the Amazon rainforest. The animals are organized into twelve different exhibits and galleries, where trained naturalists are on hand to answer any questions you might have.

The aquarium opened its largest ever expansion in the summer of 2014. The expansion includes an outdoor courtyard where they feature educational programs, entertainment for the kids, concerts and other special events throughout the summer. Inside, you'll find a huge globe wrapped with screens that take you on an exploration of the world's oceans and the life within. Be sure to check out the updated tropical gallery which also includes a new bat cave.

Each day the aquarium features a full schedule of fun and interesting shows, all included in your admission. You can see a list of the day's shows on the information board inside the aquarium and on the official website. There show schedule includes an immersive 4D cinema experience.

If you get hungry during all your exploring, you can head over to new Ocean Wise indoor or outdoor cafes.

It's good to know that the Vancouver Aquarium, while indeed entertaining, is highly focused on education, ocean and marine research, and conservation. The institution is highly respected around the world for their efforts in these areas. A non-profit charitable organization, your admission fee not only goes towards maintaining the aquarium and its many animals, but also helps support their ongoing work. Except for rescuing distressed animals, which are only kept when it's determined they are not releasable, the aquarium does not engage in capturing wild animals relying on breeding their current specimens.

Combining a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium with a walk around the famous Stanley Park seawall is a memorable way to spend a gratifying and pleasant day. For complete details about the Vancouver Aquarium click on the official website link below.

See the complete line of Vancouver Experiences on Viator

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Yes. Tickets must be purchased from the official website in advance.

Vancouver Aquarium Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Address: 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada

Phone: (778) 655-9554

Official Website: Vancouver Aquarium

Vancouver Aquarium Reviews

Rated 4.5 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating The entry fee for 2 was about $95 in Jan 2025, truly eye-popping. But did I have a great time? You bet. It exceeded my expectations, it was significantly more enjoyable and memorable compared to what I remembered as a kid. Other than wishing that the admission prices were more friendly, I would recommend dropping by the aquarium if you’re from out of town. I recommend budgeting 3.5-4 hours for the visit.
Josh Lin - 2 weeks ago

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5 Star Rating Worth every penny! I feel the ticket is pricey at first, but the animals look like they are being cared well and in good condition. Plus the experience is super cool. I spent ~3.5 hours. There are so much to see with variety of pieces across the globe. If you are a fan of aquarium, consider getting a membership for ~80$, you can freely come within a year, which is more beneficial than a 50$ one time entrance.
Huynh Anh Diep Tran - a week ago

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3 Star Rating If money is no option the aquarium makes a great activity with the kid. If you are an aquarium enthusiast you'll be underwhelmed. The aquarium is small and very busy. We have gone a few times now and have never been able to see the otters due to the crowds. It was difficult to see exhibits which created a hostile environment amongst guests. The aquarium is wheelchair accessible. Bring a lunch or buy one in the cafe. The cafe has decent coffee and i was happy to get a latte. The gift shops have some great finds and unique items.
L Dilley - 2 weeks ago

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5 Star Rating This place is such a calm and enjoyable mix of learning and fun. I’ve made so many special memories here over the years, and every visit feels unique. The displays are always interesting, and the staff are super friendly and happy to answer questions. If you’re not a fan of big crowds or lots of kids, I’d recommend going on a weekday for a more relaxed vibe.
Jasneet - a month ago

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5 Star Rating Fantastic experience! Dave the Otter Interpreter was a highlight (OK, his furry coworkers were the real stars, but Dave did a great job repping them). There's so much to see and learn - give yourself several hours to enjoy everything.
Amy Roberson - 2 weeks ago

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Directions

Skytrain and Bus Line	Nearest Station	Walking Time
Expo Line	Burrard Station	5 Minutes
Canada Line	Waterfront Station	5 Minutes

How to get to Vancouver Aquarium by Skytrain and Bus

From Burrard SkyTrain Station take the Burrard Street Exit. Walk to your left (North) along Burrard Street 1 block to West Pender Street. Cross to the far side of Pender and look for the westbound #19 Stanley Park Bus Stop to your left.

From Waterfront Station exit onto Cordova Street and cross over at Seymour Street and walk uphill 2 blocks to Pender Street. Turn right on Pender and walk ½ block to the westbound #19 Stanley Park Bus Stop.

Ride the #19 Stanley Park bus to its terminus just inside the park then make your way to the east following the signs for the quick 5 minute walk to the aquarium.