Seascapes
A key part of the Seattle Waterfront’s gorgeous new look, the state-of-the-art Ocean Pavilion provides visitors an up-close look at some 3,500 animals and plants that are native to a reef ecosystem in the Indo-Pacific Coral Triangle.
Courtesy Seattle Aquarium
Opened in August as part of the Seattle Aquarium’s (1483 Alaskan Way, Pier 59) ambitious expansion, the stunning structure features a giant oculus window that pedestrians at street level can peer up through to catch a free glimpse of its 360,000-gallon tank. The building’s rooftop, accessed via a curving exterior staircase, connects to the new Overlook Walk, which provides a memorable way for pedestrians to move between Pike Place Market and the waterfront.
Paid admission to the aquarium provides access to interactive exhibits about the oceanic home of Indo-Pacific leopard sharks, otherworldly bowmouth guitarfish, bony seahorses, brilliantly hued schooling fish, hardy mangroves, and nearly 30 species of coral. You are also able to visit the neighboring original buildings on Pier 59 to see dozens of other marine creatures, including jellyfish, tufted puffins, giant Pacific octopus, and sea otters.
The creation of the Ocean Pavilion furthers the Seattle Aquarium’s mission to protect the earth’s seas and provide visitors with a deep understanding of how all waters are interdependent. “Our mission has always been to inspire conservation of our marine environment, and that hasn’t changed,” says Bob Davidson, president and CEO of the Seattle Aquarium. “We need to take a global approach and think beyond our Pacific Northwest shores. We have one world ocean, and to protect it, we need to understand how we’re all connected.”
Pier Review
The Ocean Pavilion is just one part of the city’s stunning waterfront redevelopment. Check out these other exciting features and visit the City of Seattle’s Waterfront website for design and construction details, and the Friends of Waterfront Park website for more information about Waterfront Park.
Overlook Walk
Boasting a 360-degree panorama, attractive seating, and play elements for families, Overlook Walk is an elevated park that connects the engaging Seattle Aquarium (1483 Alaskan Way, Pier 59) with Pike Place Market (85 Pike St).
Park Promenade
Take a stroll along the handsome Park Promenade, which is lined with lush native landscaping, ample seating, and waterfront views.
Pier 62
The first piece of Waterfront Park to open to the public in 2020, Pier 62 provides an expansive space to soak up city and bay views and enjoy free arts and cultural programming and fitness classes.
Marion Street Pedestrian Bridge
The rebuilt Marion Street Pedestrian Bridge provides access from downtown’s First Avenue to the newly renovated ferry terminal at Colman Dock.
Pioneer Square Habitat Beach
Pioneer Square Habitat Beach provides a quiet space with direct water access. The beach helps reestablish natural shoreline characteristics, including shallow waters and riparian vegetation.
Railroad Way
The new Railroad Way pedestrian path connects Waterfront Park with Lumen Field (800 Lumen Occidental Ave S) and T-Mobile Park (1250 First Ave S).
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