One of the main attractions in Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Center allows visitors to explore a wide range of sealife, with more than 40,000 aquatic animals. From killer whales to sea otters to Tropical fish, the aquarium provides friendly and up-close entertainment suitable for all ages. Visitors will no doubt enjoy the beluga whale aquarium, complete with underground viewing through the glass tank. Watch these chubby mammals swim mere inches from you underground or check out one of the many shows put on by trained professionals. Visitors can also check out the killer whale shows located on the other side of the aquarium, but beware you don’t get doused with water, unless that’s part of your idea of a good time.

The Amazon Gallery allows visitors to explore a replica of the jungle, teeming exotic birds and plants. The Pacific Canada Pavilion lets visitors investigate marshlands and rainforests, as well as many of the creaters found coexisting within. In addition to pure observatory entertainment, the aquarium focuses on educating its visitors as well, with literature and encyclopedic displays included in many of the exhibits. Furthermore, many of the larger animals you encounter are actually in the process of rehabilitation, waiting to be set free when the time is right.

An early visit to the Aquarium and then finishing out the day in Stanley Park is the perfect way to spend a day in Vancouver. (Tune in to OCRA-FM, the world’s first all-whale radio station that broadcasts live sounds of wild killer whales in the surrounding waters).