Nestled in the heart of Draper, Utah, the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium stands as a testament to the wonders of marine life and the diverse ecosystems of our planet. Since its inception in 1999, the aquarium has grown exponentially, both in size and popularity, becoming a regional attraction with over 850,000 annual visitors.
A Journey from Humble Beginnings
The vision for the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium was conceived by Brent Andersen, a marine biology graduate from the University of California Santa Barbara. Andersen's dream was to create an expansive aquarium showcasing ecosystems from around the globe. The journey began modestly with an AQUAVAN in 1999, which visited Utah schools with portable marine exhibits. By 2004, the aquarium had established a 10,000 square feet exhibit in downtown Salt Lake City. This preview exhibit was a hit, drawing over 150,000 visitors annually in its first two years. Recognizing the need for a larger space, the aquarium relocated to Sandy, Utah, in 2006. With continued support from the community and significant contributions from donors like the Loveland Family Foundation, the aquarium found its permanent home in Draper, Utah, in 2014. The sprawling 136,000 square feet facility welcomed over 1.1 million visitors in its first year.
Diverse Exhibits for All Ages
The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium is home to over 4,500 animals from 550 species, spread across five main exhibits:
Ocean Explorer: Dive into the deep blue and encounter sea jellies, eels, seahorses, and seven species of sharks. The highlight is the shark tunnel, a marvel of engineering that offers a 360-degree view of these magnificent creatures.
Journey to South America: Step into a rainforest setting, complete with anacondas, piranhas, electric eels, and tree frogs. This exhibit educates visitors about the rich biodiversity of rainforests and the importance of their conservation.
Discover Utah: Explore the local fauna, including some of Utah's threatened species. The playful North American river otters are a crowd favorite, educating visitors about otter reintroduction efforts in Utah.
Antarctic Adventure: Experience the chilly wonders of the Antarctic, complete with a Falkland Islands research station and the delightful Gentoo penguins.
Expedition: Asia: Launched in 2016, this exhibit showcases the diverse wildlife of Asia, from small-clawed otters to the vibrant roul-rouls.
Beyond the Aquarium Walls
The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium is not just about showcasing animals. It's also deeply committed to education and community outreach. Their education department operates two outreach programs, the Utah Waters Van and the Rainforest Van, which visit over 450 elementary schools statewide each year. These programs aim to educate nearly 80,000 students about the importance of water conservation and rainforest preservation.
A Deep Dive into Nature's Wonders
In conclusion, the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium is more than just an attraction; it's an educational hub and a beacon for conservation efforts. Whether you're a curious child or an adult with a passion for nature, this aquarium promises an unforgettable experience. Dive in and discover the wonders of our living planet!
