OdySea Aquarium Celebrates a Decade in Arizona with Expanded Summer Experiences
New Coral Exhibits, Behind-the-Scenes Access, Birthday-Themed Fun & More
May 23 – Sept. 6
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OdySea Aquarium is turning 10! Over the past decade, the Southwest’s largest aquarium has welcomed millions of guests, and this summer it’s celebrating the milestone with a months‑long birthday bash filled with immersive exhibits, festive surprises, new coral displays, and exclusive behind‑the‑scenes experiences.
“Celebrating ten years is a testament to the passion of our team, the curiosity of our guests, and the importance of inspiring people to care about our oceans,” said President of OdySea Aquarium, Greg Charbeneau. “OdySea Aquarium has grown into a place where families and friends learn, explore, and connect with wildlife in meaningful ways. We’re proud of what we’ve built and excited for the next decade of conservation, education, and unforgettable experiences.”
From Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day (May 23 - Sept. 6), guests are welcomed into a full‑on birthday celebration the moment they step inside. The Aqua lobby comes alive with vibrant projection‑mapped balloons and confetti, setting a high‑energy tone that continues throughout the Aquarium. Whimsical scenes of sea lions, otters, penguins, and other fan‑favorite animals sporting colorful birthday hats create nonstop, social‑media‑worthy moments. The fun continues with surprise giveaways from the roaming Prize Patrol Team and cheerful appearances by penguin mascots Pip & Polly in their birthday best.
Guests can also elevate their visit with a limited‑time Behind the Scenes Tour, offered daily from May 30 through July 24. This guided experience grants rare access to areas not typically open to the public, including back‑of‑house jellyfish propagation spaces, coral nurseries, and the backstage walkways above Shark Waters — the Aquarium’s largest exhibit. The tour will provide a deeper understanding of the animals in the Aquarium’s care — from species‑specific adaptations and behaviors to the unique personalities that make them unforgettable. It’s a rare opportunity to see the behind‑the‑scenes habitats and systems that help support marine life at the aquarium.
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Behind the Scenes Tour Details:
- Dates: May 30 – July 24
- Weekday: 2 p.m.
- Weekends: 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
- Cost: $14.95
- Length: 30–45 minutes
- Ages: 6+
Adding to the summer excitement, OdySea Aquarium will debut two new coral exhibits in mid‑June, giving guests an expanded look at vibrant marine ecosystems and colorful underwater habitats.
Whether longtime supporters or first‑time visitors, guests are invited to celebrate 10 years of ocean connection, care, and unforgettable moments at OdySea Aquarium this summer. Plan a visit and join the celebration at odyseaaquarium.com.
