The Living Planet Aquarium FAQs
When did the aquarium open?
The Living Planet Aquarium was founded by Brent Andersen, a marine biologist, who had a vision for a world-class aquarium in Utah. In 1999, two "Aqua Vans" were outfitted with educational exhibits and began visiting Utah schools. In June 2004, The Living Planet Aquarium Preview Exhibit opened in The Gateway Mall, but moved to our current location in Sandy, Utah, in 2006 to accommodate growing crowds and expanding exhibits.
What are your operating hours?
WINTER: After Labor Day
10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Daily
9 a.m. - 8 p.m. the third Monday of every month
SUMMER: Memorial Weekend through Labor day
10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday
9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Monday
Where is The Living Planet Aquarium?
We are located at 725 E. 10600 South, Sandy, Utah 84094.
What are the directions to the aquarium coming from the North?
Take I-15 southbound to the 10600 South exit. Travel east to 700 East, and we are located on the northeast corner of 700 East and 10600 South.
What are the directions to the aquarium coming from the South?
Take I-15 northbound to the 10600 South exit. Travel east to 700 East, and we are located on the northeast corner of 700 East and 10600 South.
Are there bus routes to the Aquarium?
One UTA Bus route stops at the 900 E 10600 S park & ride just two blocks east of the Aquarium. This route is:
313 - an Express route to/from the south Salt Lake Valley (M-F service only) At this time, there is no UTA bus service to the Aquarium on Saturday and Sunday. For holiday service, please visit www.rideuta.com
What is the cost for parking?
There is no cost for parking. Parking is limited; however, additional parking is available within a short walking distance at REAMS, located at 10650 S. 700 East.
How long does it take to see the entire aquarium?
It takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on your group.
Do you offer special needs access?
The building is ADA compliant. Services for special needs are available upon request.
Are strollers allowed in the aquarium?
Strollers are permitted throughout the aquarium. We ask that you be considerate of other visitors as they are navigating dark galleries to see the exhibits.
What is the cost for admission?
The cost for admission is $9.95 for adults, $8.95 for seniors, students and military personnel, and $7.95 for children, ages 3 to 17. Children ages 2 and under may enter for free.
Do you offer any discounts?
Discounts are offered on occasion and can be found by visiting http://thelivingplanet.com/index.php/tickets/military-discounts
Do you accept credit cards?
We accept all major credit cards.
Do you offer memberships?
We do offer different levels of annual memberships for our guests. For more information, please refer to Visitor Information.
What constitutes a group, and what is the cost of group admission tickets?
A group consists of 20 people or more visiting the aquarium on the same day at the same time. The cost of group admission tickets is $8.95 for an adult and $6.95 for children, ages 3 to 17. You can request a group reservation by filling out a form on our website: Group Reservations.
Can I leave the building and return?
Visitors may leave the aquarium and return with the appropriate hand stamp.
Is there a gift shop?
Yes. A gift shop is located close to the exit where you may purchase The Living Planet Aquarium merchandise and souvenirs before leaving the aquarium.
Is there a place to eat within the aquarium?
Yes. Calypso’s Café is full of delicious snacks that can help you re-fuel as you continue to explore, discover and learn all about some of the world’s most amazing underwater animals. Calypso’s Café is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For menus and detailed descriptions, please visit the Calypso’s Café section of our website: Calypso’s Café.
What are the best times to avoid crowds?
The best times to avoid crowds are Sundays and in the evenings from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
What are your photography and video guidelines?
During your visit, you are welcome to take photos and video for your personal use only. Commercial photography is allowed only with prior written permission from our public relations department. For your safety and the safety of other visitors, we prohibit the use of tripods and monopods in the aquarium.
Flash photography can hurt some animals such as the Giant Pacific Octopus. Before you click the shutter, please look for signs that contain guidelines as to whether flash photography is permitted.
Do you provide Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is now available at the Aquarium free of charge. You can browse the Internet with your Wi-Fi enabled cell phones, PDAs or MP3 players. For more information, please ask any staff member.
Do you offer educational programs?
We currently operate two free outreach school programs, on-site field trips for school groups, a teacher professional development program and a variety of public programs. For more information about outreach programs, please visit the education section on our website.
What is your smoking policy?
For the health and safety of our guests and animals, smoking is prohibited anywhere on aquarium property, including outdoor areas.
How many exhibits are at The Living Planet Aquarium, and what can I expect to see?
There are three main exhibits at The Living Planet Aquarium: Discover Utah, Ocean Explorer and Journey to South America. There are 1,250 animals and 267 species on display, ensuring that there are always lots to see and do as you make your way through the aquarium.
Can I touch any of the animals at the aquarium?
There are four touch pools available specifically for touching animals. We have a strict two-finger touch policy to ensure the safety of our animals and our visitors.
Can I plan a party at the aquarium?
The Living Planet Aquarium is an ideal space for birthday parties, Christmas parties, family reunions, board meetings, sales events, and social hours. Our replica of an 1830s sunken ship connects to an even larger multipurpose room with capacity for dinners, wedding receptions, school proms, training workshops, and breakfast meetings. Before or after public exhibit hours, you may expand your private event into the entire aquarium space - more than 40,000 square feet in an extraordinarily unique setting!
To book your party please complete the online Birthday Reservation Request Form.
What is the schedule for public feedings?
The public feeding schedule varies on a daily basis. Check our online calendar before your visit to be sure you don’t miss one of our spectacular feeding presentations: Calendar.
Does the aquarium have storage lockers?
Unfortunately we do not have lockers at our current location. We suggest that you limit your number of personal belongings to ensure a positive experience.
How can I make a contribution/donation to the aquarium?
For more information about donations and sponsorships, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Can I bring my own food and drink?
Please note that no food or drink may be consumed inside the aquarium, and seating in Calypso’s Café is reserved for cafe patrons.
I've lost an item. Does the aquarium have a lost and found?
Our guest services staff will assist you with items that have been turned in to the lost and found area.
How can I become a volunteer?
To learn about volunteer opportunities visit Volunteer, call 801-355-3474 extension 212, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
