Under the Sea

June is National Zoo and Aquarium Month, a perfect time to visit your favorite local aquariums and see underwater creatures face-to-face.

Meet sea animals face to face at Sea Life Aquarium, a favorite local attraction taking guests under the sea on a 2- to 3-hour journey from the fresh waters of the Missouri River, into the mighty Mississippi River, then out into the warm, blue, coral-strewn waters of the Caribbean Sea, ending in the deep, dark abyss of the Atlantic Ocean. Come nose to nose with sharks and enjoy astonishingly close views of everything from starfish and seahorses to graceful rays. A favorite is the tropical ocean tank with a walk-through underwater tunnel.

Last fall, the Kansas City Zoo welcomed the much-anticipated Helzberg Penguin Plaza, where visitors watch more than 40 penguins swim, play, eat and splash in their world-class exhibit. Southern rockhoppers, gentoo, king penguins and Humboldts are part of the exhibit. Visitors also enjoy watching saltwater fish in the aquarium and moon jellies. For an extra special experience, visit the zoo’s calendar to learn about Penguin Pole-looza overnights in the exhibit.

You can see native Missouri and Kansas fish at local nature centers and nature stores. Burr Oak Woods Nature Center features fish native to Missouri streams and lakes. Bass Pro Shops in Independence and Olathe and Cabela’s in Kansas City, KS, all feature large fish tanks displaying native fish and turtles. Children love watching these.

For fun building sand castles and swimming, read our guide to Kansas City-area sand beaches and area lakes and boat rental information. Or, discover area pirate parks where children enjoy playing aboard pirate ship-themed playgrounds at many of the best parks in Kansas City.