Tropical Escape: Why the East Idaho Aquarium is Your Perfect December Break
December in Idaho Falls is defined by snow, lights, and cozy activities. But sometimes, you need a little escape from the chill—and the holiday rush!
If you're looking for a warm, non-traditional break from Christmas carols and peppermint mochas, the East Idaho Aquarium offers a perfect tropical retreat right in the heart of Idaho Falls.
The Warmest Place in Town
The best part about visiting the Aquarium in December is the instant vacation from the freezing temperatures outside. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by warm, humid air and the vibrant colors of marine life.
Forget snow shovels and icy sidewalks for an hour or two; here, you can watch sharks glide by and rays swim overhead. It's an ideal antidote to cabin fever for families and a refreshing change of pace for a winter date.
Interactive Adventures to Explore:
The East Idaho Aquarium is known for its highly interactive exhibits. Unlike larger, traditional aquariums, this facility is designed for hands-on learning and fun:
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Touch & Feed Tanks: Purchase tokens to feed various species, including the friendly Stingrays.
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The Ray Tank: For the truly adventurous, you can book an up-close and personal encounter that allows you to sit in the shallow ray tank with the warm-water creatures swimming around you! (Requires booking an Animal Encounter).
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Meet Exotic Friends: Beyond the fish, you can encounter terrestrial animals like Wookiee the Sloth and various lizards, snakes, and exotic birds. Many of these animals can be part of a hands-on encounter (for an extra fee).
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Dive with Sharks: The most thrilling adventure offered is the opportunity to swim in the shark tank! (Must be booked in advance as an Animal Encounter).
🎄 Christmas Cheer at the Aquarium?
While the core focus of the Aquarium is aquatic education and fun, they often incorporate seasonal touches:
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Potential for Holiday Decor: Keep an eye on their social media. In past years, the Aquarium has added subtle holiday flair—you might spot a scuba Santa during feeding time or see a festive display near the gift shop!
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Unique Gift Ideas: If you're still shopping, the gift shop is a great place to find unique, non-toy presents for kids, like animal-themed books or educational toys. You can also gift an Animal Encounter experience for a truly memorable stocking stuffer.
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Winter Hours: The Aquarium maintains excellent hours throughout the holiday season, making it easy to fit into your busy schedule:
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Monday - Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
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Sunday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
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