The Alaska SeaLife Center is both a public aquarium and a working marine research and rehabilitation facility — the only one of its kind in Alaska. Steller sea lions, harbor seals, puffins, and seabirds share tanks you can view from above and below the waterline. The center takes in injured and orphaned marine animals, rehabilitates them, and releases those that recover.
The exhibits explain the ecology of the Gulf of Alaska and Kenai Fjords, covering everything from the intertidal zone to deep-sea creatures. The octopus display is invariably popular. Behind-the-scenes tours let you get closer to the animals and watch the rehabilitation work. Allow at least two to three hours. The center is open daily and is located right on the waterfront at the south end of town.