Sound Science Center, Sitka

The Sitka Sound Science Center offers a captivating exploration of Southeast Alaska's unique marine ecosystem through its aquarium and hatchery facilities. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the wonders of the underwater world, experiencing firsthand the diverse marine life that inhabits the waters of Sitka Sound. One of the highlights of the center is the tidal-pool touch tanks, where guests can interact with spiky sea urchins, bumpy sea stars, and other fascinating creatures found along the intertidal zone.

Step into the Salmon Bubble exhibit and gain a fish-eye view of the ocean as you observe the underwater world from a salmon's perspective. Delve deeper into the mysteries of the ocean by gazing into the 60 Feet Deep tank, which is home to a variety of marine species including rockfish, eels, and other creatures that thrive in the depths of Alaska's waters. The aquarium also features Wanda the Wolf Eel, along with other deep-water and intertidal residents collected from Sitka's local waters.

Through guided tours and interactive experiences, guests can gain insights into the center's research initiatives and the processes involved in maintaining a public aquarium. The Behind-the-Scenes tour offers a glimpse into areas not typically accessible to the public, while Aquarium 101 and Hatchery 101 provide hands-on learning experiences focused on animal care, tank maintenance, and the lifecycle of salmon from egg to ocean.