Utah has no shortage of family-friendly attractions, but few combine hands-on learning, animal encounters, and fun quite like its aquariums. Two of the most popular destinations are Layton Aquarium & Wildlife Encounters in Layton and Loveland Living Planet Aquarium in Draper.
Both are known for providing unforgettable experiences that inspire curiosity about the natural world—but they’re quite different in size, atmosphere, and style. Whether you’re planning a weekend family adventure, a school field trip, or a birthday celebration, this guide will help you decide which aquarium best fits your day out.
Two Aquariums, Two Styles of Experience
Loveland Living Planet Aquarium is Utah’s largest and most well-known aquarium. Located in Draper, it features thousands of animals from around the globe, from sharks and penguins to otters and tropical fish. It’s designed for guests who want an immersive, museum-style experience and plenty of space to explore.
Layton Aquarium & Wildlife Encounters, on the other hand, focuses on what makes animal experiences truly memorable—interaction. Guests can feed stingrays, hold reptiles, or even meet sloths up close. The aquarium’s smaller size means you spend less time walking and more time connecting directly with animals and staff.
Both options are fantastic for different reasons. Let’s look at how they compare in cost, experience, and overall value.
Cost Comparison: Layton Leads in Affordability
Price often plays a big role in choosing a family activity, especially for larger households. In this category, Layton Aquarium & Wildlife Encounters stands out as the more budget-friendly option.
Layton Aquarium Pros (Cost):
- General admission is typically lower than larger aquariums.
- Families can choose add-on experiences using tokens, letting you control how much you spend.
- Frequent promotions and local deals make it easy to plan a cost-effective visit.
Loveland Living Planet Pros (Cost):
- Offers a premium experience with massive, high-tech exhibits.
- The higher price includes access to large habitats and educational displays.
Verdict:
If you’re looking for an affordable, interactive day out, Layton Aquarium offers great value. Loveland Living Planet is perfect for families who don’t mind paying more for a large, world-class exhibit experience.
Animal Encounters: Hands-On vs. Observational
One of the biggest differences between the two aquariums is how you experience the animals.
Layton Aquarium & Wildlife Encounters is built around interaction. You can touch, feed, and learn directly from animal handlers, creating a personal connection that kids love. It’s immersive, educational, and unforgettable.
Loveland Living Planet Aquarium, meanwhile, is designed around observation. It’s ideal for visitors who enjoy large exhibits, photography, and learning about ecosystems through visual storytelling.
Layton Aquarium Pros (Animal Encounters):
- Guests can feed and touch stingrays, reptiles, birds, and even sloths.
- Smaller groups allow for more time and personal interaction.
- Hands-on learning helps children retain more information.
- Frequent themed events and birthday party options add variety and excitement.
Layton Aquarium Cons:
- Fewer large sea creatures like sharks or penguins.
- Smaller facility means less walking space for long visits.
Loveland Living Planet Pros (Animal Encounters):
- Huge ocean and rainforest exhibits with sharks, otters, and penguins.
- Expansive layout for exploration and photography.
- Informative signage and interactive digital displays about conservation.
Loveland Living Planet Cons:
- Most exhibits are “look, don’t touch.”
- Larger crowds on weekends can make it harder for small children to engage.
- Higher prices for a more traditional, museum-style experience.
Verdict:
If you want to feel like part of the experience, Layton Aquarium is the clear winner. If you prefer to see a wide variety of animals and learn from detailed displays, Loveland Living Planet is your spot.
Atmosphere: Intimate vs. Immersive
The two facilities also differ in scale and environment.
Layton Aquarium has a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. It’s designed for families who want to connect with animals without feeling rushed or crowded. You’ll have time to talk to staff, take photos, and enjoy the experience at your own pace.
Loveland Living Planet offers a more grand, theatrical experience. Its massive exhibits, impressive lighting, and themed zones make you feel like you’re traveling across continents. However, with size comes crowds—especially during weekends and holidays.
Layton Aquarium Pros (Atmosphere):
- Calm, family-friendly environment.
- Easy to navigate, especially with small kids.
- Friendly staff available to answer questions.
Loveland Living Planet Pros (Atmosphere):
- Visually stunning exhibits that feel like an adventure.
- Great for photos and full-day trips.
Verdict:
Layton Aquarium is ideal for families who value personal space, comfort, and hands-on fun. Loveland Living Planet suits those who love big experiences and don’t mind busier crowds.
Educational Value: Different Approaches, Same Goal
Both aquariums are deeply rooted in education—but their teaching styles differ.
Loveland Living Planet Aquarium emphasizes formal conservation education. Through immersive exhibits, videos, and environmental messaging, it teaches guests about ecosystems, climate change, and wildlife protection.
Layton Aquarium & Wildlife Encounters focuses on tactile, real-world learning. Instead of just reading about animals, visitors can touch, feed, and observe behaviors firsthand. It’s an approach that resonates especially well with younger audiences.
Layton Aquarium Strengths:
- Kids learn by doing, not just observing.
- Staff share animal facts in engaging, memorable ways.
- Encourages compassion and curiosity through direct contact.
Loveland Living Planet Strengths:
- Provides in-depth conservation content for older kids and adults.
- Advanced exhibits encourage research-style exploration.
Verdict:
Both are educational—but Layton wins for hands-on learning, while Loveland wins for big-picture environmental education.
Location and Accessibility
Choosing which aquarium to visit may depend simply on where you live or what’s nearby.
- Layton Aquarium & Wildlife Encounters is located in Northern Utah, convenient for residents of Layton, Ogden, Kaysville, and surrounding areas. It’s easy to access and perfect for a shorter day trip.
- Loveland Living Planet Aquarium sits in Draper, about 20 miles south of Salt Lake City, making it ideal for visitors from Salt Lake or Utah County.
If you’re planning to explore northern attractions, Layton is a natural fit. If you’re combining your visit with Salt Lake City activities, Loveland might be more convenient.
Group Events, Field Trips, and Parties
Both aquariums offer group experiences—but with different styles.
Layton Aquarium & Wildlife Encounters specializes in personalized events. Their birthday party packages and private animal encounters are designed for smaller groups that want something truly unique. Kids can feed stingrays, meet reptiles, and enjoy guided experiences that make birthdays unforgettable.
Loveland Living Planet Aquarium offers larger, structured group tours and school programs. Educational field trips focus on conservation, ocean life, and ecosystems with trained guides and classroom tie-ins.
Layton Aquarium Pros (Events):
- Highly customizable party and group packages.
- Private animal encounters for guests.
- Friendly staff that make events personal and interactive.
Loveland Living Planet Pros (Events):
- Large venues for schools or organizations.
- Professional presentations and learning materials.
Verdict:
Layton is best for smaller, hands-on celebrations or intimate gatherings. Loveland is better suited for large educational groups and field trips.
Time Commitment and Convenience
Layton Aquarium can be enjoyed in one to two hours, making it ideal for shorter family outings. You can stop in, explore, and still have time for other nearby attractions or dining in Layton.
Loveland Living Planet typically takes three to four hours to explore fully, making it more of a full-day commitment. That’s perfect for families who want an all-day destination.
Tip: Pair your Layton visit with other local attractions like parks, mini-golf, or restaurants nearby to create the perfect half-day adventure.
Pros and Cons Summary
Layton Aquarium & Wildlife Encounters
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Hands-on animal encounters
- Friendly, personal atmosphere
- Perfect for young children and families
- Great for shorter trips and birthday parties
Cons:
- Smaller facility
- Limited number of large sea animals
Loveland Living Planet Aquarium
Pros:
- Massive, world-class exhibits
- Penguins, sharks, and tropical habitats
- Impressive conservation focus
- Ideal for long visits or day trips
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Larger crowds
- Less opportunity for direct interaction
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Both aquariums are excellent, but the best choice depends on what kind of experience you want.
- Choose Layton Aquarium & Wildlife Encounters if you want an affordable, interactive, hands-on experience where kids can touch and feed animals, ask questions, and connect directly with nature. It’s ideal for families, younger visitors, and anyone who values personal connection over spectacle.
- Choose Loveland Living Planet Aquarium if you prefer a large, immersive, world-class exhibit experience with grand visuals, educational displays, and plenty of animals to see. It’s great for older kids and adults who enjoy traditional exhibits and big attractions.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re ready for a day filled with wildlife interaction, check out:
No matter which Utah aquarium you visit, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the people who care for them. But if you’re looking for a more personal, affordable, and unforgettable experience—you’ll find it waiting for you at Layton Aquarium & Wildlife Encounters.