Sharks in the Mall of America?

Sea Life Aquarium shark, Mall of America

The Mall of America can be a scary place. Overzealous tourists, chaotic parking, and a general over-stimulation of the senses can break down even the most seasoned shopper.  Visitors to the MOA may be unaware of another danger in the mall. Sharks, giant octopus, jellyfish, and various other sea creatures lurk just below their feet!  Formerly known as Underwater World, the Sea Life Aquarium at the Mall of America is located below the first floor of the Mall of America. 

Just the Basics

My wife and I decided to visit the Sea Life Aquarium because teachers get free admission.  We were required to show our school ID at the ticket counter to get the educator discount.  In return, we were both given a year membership to the aquarium which also allowed each of us to bring in a guest to the aquarium at half-price admission.    

Jellyfish, Sea Life Aquarium, Mall of America

After descending an escalator to the depths of the MOA, the view that greeted me made me skeptical about what we would find in the Sea Life Aquarium.  The first exhibit, which feature an aquarium of stingrays and another shallow tank filled with starfish was underwhelming to say the least.  The tanks were small and the whole area seemed sparse of anything to view.  To make matters worse, the entire room was painted in a cheesy ocean theme more appropriate for a bad sea-food restaurant.  Despite the underwhelming start, the aquarium got better the further I explored.  

The next exhibits of small tanks feature jellyfish of all colors, a giant octopus, and sea horses of all sizes.  I had never seen any these marine animals in person and was impressed by the way Sea Life showcased the exhibit.  By using circular tanks and low room lighting, Sea Life allows visitors to get a 360 degree view of the vibrant color and detail of each creature.  The highlight of the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium is a 300 foot ocean tunnel that is stocked with sharks, sea turtles, and countless other marine life.  Shark swam right above and beside me as I walked through the tunnel, which is designed to look like the lost city of Atlantis. I felt like a little kid giddy with excitement as I tried unsuccessfully to get the sharks and turtles to pose for pictures.  As we left the ocean tunnel, we walked through a yet-to-be completed exhibit on the rainforest, which seemed set to be a great addition to the aquarium. 

Ocean Tunnel, Sea Life Aquarium, Mall of America

Is the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium at the Mall of America worth the price of admission?  For educators and those that plan ahead for discounted admission, yes.  For die-hard marine life nuts, yes.  For a family on a budget, probably not.  I enjoyed my time at the aquarium and was wowed by the up-close and personal views it offered of marine life.  Had I paid full-price admission, I would have left wishing for more out of my $20. 

Just the Basics

• Cost: Adults $19.99, Kids 3-12 yrs $15.99, Under 3 are free
• Hours: 10am-7:30pm weekdays, with varied hours on the weekend
  
• Location: Mall of America, Bloomington Minnesota
• Website: http://www.mallofamerica.com/attractions/view/sea-life-minnesota-aquarium
• Advice: Educators with school ID get in for free! Discounted tickets can also be purchased from their website.