Sea Life Aquarium Locations in the United States

Sea Life Aquarium operates multiple locations across the United States, each independently owned and operated. The main Sea Life locations are in Grapevine, Texas (near Dallas-Fort Worth), Bloomington, Minnesota (at the Mall of America), and Kansas City, Missouri. Each facility is a separate business, so hours, admission prices, and exhibits vary by location.

The Grapevine location is the original and largest Sea Life Aquarium in North America. It sits inside the Grapevine Mills Mall at 1310 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine, Texas 76051. The Minnesota location is inside the Mall of America at 5000 South Drive, Bloomington, Minnesota 55425. The Kansas City location is at Union Station, 30 West Pershing Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64108.

Key Takeaways

  • Sea Life Aquarium has three main locations: Grapevine, Texas; Bloomington, Minnesota; and Kansas City, Missouri, each with different hours and admission costs.
  • The Grapevine location is the largest and oldest Sea Life facility in North America and is housed inside Grapevine Mills Mall.
  • The Minnesota location sits inside the Mall of America, making it straightforward to combine your visit with other mall attractions.
  • Each location operates independently, so you should check the specific facility's website or call ahead before visiting to confirm current hours and any special exhibits.

Getting to the Grapevine, Texas Location

Grapevine Mills Mall is located about 20 miles northwest of downtown Dallas. If you are driving, take Interstate 635 or Interstate 820 toward Grapevine, then follow signs to the mall. Parking is free in the mall lot. The address for GPS is 1310 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine, Texas 76051.

Public transportation options are limited in this area. The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) bus system does not have a direct route to Grapevine Mills Mall, so a car or rideshare service is the most practical option. If you are flying into Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, a rental car or rideshare will get you there in about 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic.

Getting to the Bloomington, Minnesota Location

The Mall of America is located in Bloomington, just south of Minneapolis. The address is 5000 South Drive, Bloomington, Minnesota 55425. If you are driving, take Interstate 494 to the Killebrew Drive exit and follow signs to the mall. Parking is free.

Public transit is available through Metro Transit. The Blue Line light rail stops at the Mall of America station, which connects directly to the mall. This is a convenient option if you are staying in Minneapolis or St. Paul. From Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, you can take the light rail directly to the mall in about 30 minutes.

Getting to the Kansas City, Missouri Location

Sea Life at Union Station is located at 30 West Pershing Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, in the historic Union Station building downtown. If you are driving, use GPS to navigate to Union Station and look for paid parking in the surrounding lots or garages. Street parking is also available but can be limited during busy times.

Kansas City's public transit system, KCATA, runs bus routes near Union Station. The station itself is walkable from many downtown hotels and restaurants. If you are arriving by train, Union Station is a major Amtrak hub, so you can step off the train and walk directly into the facility.

Hours and Admission Information

Each Sea Life location has its own operating hours and admission structure. Hours typically run from mid-morning to early evening, but they vary by season and day of the week. Some locations offer discounted admission for online purchases made in advance, and many have special rates for children, seniors, and military personnel.

Before you visit, check the specific location's website or call their direct phone number to confirm current hours, any temporary closures, and current admission prices. Many locations also offer combo tickets if you plan to visit other attractions in the same mall or facility.

What to Expect at Each Location

All three Sea Life locations feature underwater tunnels where sharks and rays swim overhead, touch pools where you can interact with starfish and sea anemones, and exhibits focused on different ocean habitats. The Grapevine location is the largest and typically has the most extensive collection of species and interactive experiences.

Each facility is designed for families with children, though adults without children also visit. Most visits take between one and three hours depending on how long you spend at each exhibit and whether you participate in interactive activities. The facilities are climate-controlled and indoor, making them good options for hot or cold weather days.

Planning Your Visit

If you are visiting a Sea Life location for the first time, arrive early in the day when crowds are lighter. Bring comfortable walking shoes because you will be on your feet the entire visit. Many locations have a gift shop and snack bar, though you may want to bring your own water bottle to stay hydrated.

If you are traveling with young children, check whether the location has family restrooms and nursing areas. Some locations offer birthday party packages and group rates, so contact them directly if you are planning a special event. Photography policies vary by location, so ask staff whether you can take photos and videos before you start exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit Sea Life Aquarium if I am not going to the mall?

Yes. At the Grapevine and Bloomington locations, you can enter the aquarium directly without shopping at the mall. At the Kansas City location inside Union Station, you can visit the aquarium as a standalone attraction. You do not need to purchase anything else to enter.

Are there Sea Life Aquariums outside of Texas, Minnesota, and Missouri?

Sea Life Aquariums operate in other countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia, but in the United States, the three locations listed above are the main facilities. Some other aquariums in the U.S. may have similar names or branding, so verify the exact location before traveling.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Summer and school holidays are the busiest times. If you prefer smaller crowds, visit on a weekday during the school year. Winter months are also typically quieter except around winter holidays. Check the specific location's website for any seasonal closures or special events.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

Most locations offer online ticket purchases at a discount compared to gate prices. Buying in advance also lets you skip the ticket line. However, you can also purchase tickets at the entrance on the day of your visit if you prefer.

Is Sea Life Aquarium wheelchair accessible?

All three locations are wheelchair accessible. Elevators, accessible restrooms, and accessible parking are available at each facility. Contact the specific location directly if you have questions about accessibility for mobility devices or other needs.