Aquarium of Boise

Aquarium of Boise is a 10,000-square-foot aquarium centered on hands-on exploration of aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. Its collection includes more than 250 species across 38 exhibits, with 35,000 gallons of saltwater supporting marine habitats alongside freshwater fish, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. The facility's mix of animals gives it a broader scope than an aquarium devoted exclusively to marine life, while its educational mission emphasizes understanding and conservation through direct interaction.

Marine exhibits include a 17,000-gallon shark and puffer display, a ray pool with cownose rays and bamboo sharks, and a tropical reef habitat featuring more than 35 species. Other exhibits explore freshwater fish from South America, reptiles such as iguanas and pythons, rainforest species, and tide pool animals including sea stars, sea urchins, and hermit crabs. A bird aviary adds opportunities to feed selected birds by hand. The variety and interactive format make the aquarium particularly suited to visitors who enjoy touching, feeding, and exploring animals rather than simply viewing traditional aquarium displays.