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| The Animal Crossing Aquarium Tour returns in 2026, bringing themed exhibits and activities inspired by Animal Crossing: New Horizons. |
By Juli Scarr
The Animal Crossing Aquarium Tour is returning in 2026, bringing its mix of real-world marine exhibits and Nintendo charm to a new round of aquariums across the United States. Beginning February 13, 2026, the experience will appear at select locations throughout the year, giving fans another chance to step into an Animal Crossing–themed day out.
The touring event, inspired by Animal Crossing: New Horizons, blends aquarium exhibits with themed activities, character appearances, and exclusive rewards designed to bring the world of the game into a real-world setting.
What to Expect From the Animal Crossing Aquarium Tour
Visitors attending the Aquarium Tour can expect a mix of interactive activities and themed displays tied directly to Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Aquariums will feature custom signage presented by Blathers, complete with creature descriptions inspired by the game, along with themed décor throughout the exhibits.
Some of the highlights include:
- Photo opportunities with Animal Crossing–themed backdrops
- Character standees placed throughout the aquarium, including Kapp’n making his aquarium tour debut
- A stamp rally activity at select locations
- My Nintendo kiosks offering 100 Platinum Points for Nintendo Account holders
- Exclusive Animal Crossing–themed patches available on select days
- QR codes for downloadable mobile wallpapers
- Meet-and-greets with characters like Isabelle, Tom Nook, or K.K. Slider at select stops
- Official Animal Crossing merchandise available for purchase
- Playable demos of Animal Crossing: New Horizons at select locations
Admission to the experience is included with regular aquarium tickets, with availability and special activities varying by location and date.
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| Blathers-style signage gives visitors Animal Crossing–inspired facts about real aquatic life during the aquarium tour. |
Where the Aquarium Tour Is Heading in 2026
The Animal Crossing Aquarium Tour will appear at the following locations throughout the year:
- SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium – Orlando, Florida
- Birch Aquarium – San Diego, California
- SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium – Grapevine, Texas
- SEA LIFE New Jersey Aquarium – East Rutherford, New Jersey
- SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium – Auburn Hills, Michigan
- SEA LIFE at Mall of America – Bloomington, Minnesota
- SEA LIFE San Antonio Aquarium – San Antonio, Texas
- SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium – Tempe, Arizona
- SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord – Concord, North Carolina
- SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium – Kansas City, Missouri
Each location will feature slightly different activities depending on space and scheduling, so fans planning to attend should check their local aquarium for specific details.
A Natural Fit for Animal Crossing Fans
The Aquarium Tour feels like a natural extension of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, especially for players who enjoy the museum side of the game. Between collecting critters, learning about sea life, and interacting with familiar characters, the event leans heavily into the cozy, educational side of the franchise.
If you’ve been keeping up with the series, this tour arrives at a good time. Nintendo recently rolled out major updates alongside Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, and we also broke down everything included in the Animal Crossing: New Horizons Version 3.0 update.
When and How to Attend
The Animal Crossing Aquarium Tour begins on February 13, 2026, with additional locations rolling out throughout the year. Tickets are included with general aquarium admission and can be purchased directly through each participating venue.
For fans of the series, especially those who enjoy the calmer, creative side of Animal Crossing, this tour looks like a fun way to experience the world of the game outside the screen.
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