Vancouver Aquarium

The largest aquarium in Canada, Vancouver Aquarium is conveniently sited in the heart of the gorgeous Stanley Park. Spanning an impressive 9,000 square metres, this incredible aquarium is home to an enormous diversity of exotic sea creatures from a giant Pacific octopus to pretty little clownfish.Interactive exhibits and re-created habitats educate, inspire and entertain visitors of all ages as they move through the various galleries. Examine the diversity of marine and animal life that inhabits the British Columbia coast or learn about the adverse effects of climate change on Canada’s Arctic shores.Vancouver Aquarium is particularly lauded for its excellent close-encounter programmes which give visitors an intimate look at the behaviours of certain marine mammals. At the Beluga Encounter, hand-feed the charismatic giant whales, participate in their training session and learn about their unique marine habitat. Greet the African penguins as they waddle around the perimeter of their enclosure or marvel at the fearsome reef sharks at the daily shark show.If you really want to gain an insight into how an aquarium works, take one of the illuminating behind-the-scenes tours where friendly and informative guides explain exactly how they care for 50,000 marine animals. Particularly focused on research and conservation, this is a fantastic eye-opener for any budding marine biologist.For an enriching encounter of a different kind, head to the aquarium’s cinema and immerse yourself in the multi-sensory 4D Experience. Take in the smells and sounds as a plethora of marine animals leap out of the screen towards you.Finally, come face to face with an array of exotic animals at the Graham Amazon Gallery. This re-created tropical rainforest is home to a wonderful array of creatures including a 3.5-metre long anaconda, two-toed sloths and a school of piranhas. Designed to emulate the conditions of a real rainforest, this gallery even has hourly rainstorms as well as lights that simulate dawn and dusk.Hail, rain or shine, the Vancouver Aquarium is the perfect place to spend an afternoon so make sure you schedule it in to your holiday.