Sound Science Center, Sitka

The Sitka Sound Science Center provides visitors with an introduction to the marine ecosystems of Southeast Alaska through its aquarium, hatchery, and educational programs. Located near the waters of Sitka Sound, the center focuses on local marine species and the research and conservation efforts that help protect the region's coastal environment. One of its most popular features is the tidal-pool touch tanks, where visitors can handle and observe intertidal creatures such as sea urchins, sea stars, and other animals commonly found along Alaska's shoreline.

The aquarium's exhibits highlight the variety of marine life found in the waters around Sitka. The Salmon Bubble exhibit allows visitors to view the underwater environment from the perspective of a salmon, while the 60 Feet Deep tank recreates the conditions of deeper coastal waters and features species such as rockfish, eels, and other marine animals. The facility also houses Wanda the Wolf Eel, a well-known resident of the aquarium, along with other creatures collected from local waters and cared for in its tanks.

The center also offers educational programs and behind-the-scenes tours that explain how the aquarium operates and how marine animals are cared for. The Behind-the-Scenes tour introduces visitors to areas normally closed to the public, while Aquarium 101 and Hatchery 101 provide hands-on lessons about animal care, aquarium maintenance, and the life cycle of salmon from eggs to their migration into the ocean.