OdySea Aquarium Named One of the
Nation’s Top Ten Aquariums by USA TODAY
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OdySea Aquarium is honored to be named one of the top aquariums in the nation, ranking ninth in USA TODAY’s prestigious 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards. Each year, a panel of industry experts curates a shortlist of standout aquariums, with final rankings determined by a nationwide public vote, representing the perspectives of those familiar with and inspired by these destinations.
“This recognition means so much to us because it’s decided by the very people who have experienced OdySea Aquarium firsthand—our guests,” said Greg Charbeneau, President of OdySea Aquarium. “Knowing that those who have walked through our doors appreciate the care, passion, and dedication we put into every detail of OdySea Aquarium is truly humbling. It inspires us to keep creating memorable moments that educate, entertain, and foster a deeper connection to the natural world.”
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OdySea Aquarium is one of the largest and most interactive aquariums in the nation, offering an unforgettable blend of education, entertainment, and up-close animal encounters. Home to more than 6,000 animals and 300 species across 70 exhibits, this state-of-the-art facility captivates guests with unique experiences including:
- OdySea Voyager: The world’s only rotating aquarium experience where guests can relax in stadium-style seats as they’re gently rotated past massive 46-foot viewing windows to see stunning sea turtles, sharks, rays, sea lions, and more.
- Shark Restroom: A surprising view awaits as the mirrors above the sinks in this bathroom are replaced with a direct view into the aquarium’s shark exhibit!
- SeaTREK® Helmet Dive Experience: Walk underwater and interact with Indo-Pacific marine life in a 120,000-gallon habitat.
- Penguin Encounter: Experience a 45-minute interactive session with charismatic, waddling African penguins.
- Sloth Encounter: Enjoy an incredible, up-close opportunity to meet and learn about an adorable two-toed sloth.
USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Award is the latest in a growing list of accolades OdySea Aquarium has earned since opening its doors in 2016 including America’s Best Restroom, Best Indoor Attraction, Best Place to Take Kids, Most Loved Place, Best of the Valley, and Best of Phoenix.
The full 2025 10Best Aquariums List:
- Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium — Springfield, Missouri.
- Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies — Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
- Texas State Aquarium — Corpus Christi, Texas.
- St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station — St. Louis Missouri.
- Mystic Aquarium — Mystic, Connecticut.
- Tennessee Aquarium — Chattanooga, Tennessee.
- Adventure Aquarium — Camden, New Jersey.
- The Florida Aquarium — Tampa, Florida.
- OdySea Aquarium — Scottsdale, Arizona.
- The Maritime Aquarium — Norwalk, Connecticut.
To learn more or plan a visit, head to odyseaaquarium.com.
