Program Options and Costs
On-site Programs
Explorer
A self-guided tour of the Great Lakes Aquarium exhibits. Estimated time required: 1 1/2 hours. Explorer ticket includes:
- General admission to The Aquarium
- Group greeting from our Education Department
- Secure close to store coats, lunches, backpacks, etc.
- Age-appropriate exhibit scavenger hunt
- Lunch space (please request during registration)
- Daily interpretive programs, animal feedings, and more…
- Free parking for group vehicles (bus, van, or cars)
Dive in Deeper
Dive in Deeper ticket includes:
- All of the benefits of the Explorer ticket
- One- or two-hour age-appropriate class with our staff
Field Experiences
Get outside with Great Lakes Aquarium! We offer two-hour field classes that take place on the shores of the big lake. See the Field Trip + Class section for more details.
Fish and Ships
Visit the Aquarium AND get out on the water with the Vista Fleet! Combination tickets available. Book both and save.
Homeschool
Homeschool groups are welcome at Great Lakes Aquarium. Our educators are happy to tailor an experience or offer resources to support your teaching and learning. Homeschool groups receive discounted rates as shown below.
Group Rates
| Youth (Grades preK-8) | Youth (Grades 9-12) | Adult | Teacher | Chaperone | Member child | Member adult | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Admission | $10.50 (Age 3-12) $12.50 (Age 13-17) | $16.50 $13.50 (Seniors) | MN/WI teachers are free with school ID or pay stub. | n/a | Free with membership card. | Free with membership card. | |
| Group Rates A minimum of 10 paying guests are required. Group rates are only available with advance reservation. | $6 | $6 (up to age 17) | $11 | MN/WI teachers are free with school ID or pay stub. | n/a | Free with membership card. | Free with membership card. |
| School Field Trip* Aquarium admission. | $4 | $6 | $6 | Free | Grades preK-8: 1 free chaperone per 5 paying youth Grades 9-12: 1 free chaperone per 10 paid youth | Free with membership card. | Free with membership card. |
| Homeschool Groups Aquarium admission. | $4 | $6 | $6 | n/a | 1 free adult per 5 paying youth | Free with membership card | Free with membership card |
| One-hour Class ($20 minimum per one-hour class) | Add $2 per hour per youth | Add $2 per hour per youth | Add $2 per hour per youth | n/a | n/a | Add $2 per hour per youth | n/a |
| Scouts | $6 | $6 | $11 | MN/WI teachers are free with school ID or pay stub. | 1 free adult per 5 paying youth | Free with membership card | Free with membership card |
*Note: to receive these rates, you must be affiliated with an accredited school.
Download a field trip planning packet here.
Download a school program catalog here .
Want to provide students with structure as they explore? Download age appropriate exhibit guides below.
Grades K-2
