Here Are The 15 Best Destinations Across America To Experience Nature Indoors

There are outdoorsy people and indoorsy people. While the former is quick to jump on an opportunity for backcountry camping or an all-day hike, the latter prefers a comfortable and climate-controlled distance and favors the experience of nature indoors. That’s okay. Because here in America, we’re all about options – and just because some people prefer to be inside, doesn’t mean they can’t experience the wide and wonderful world, too. Here are the best destinations across America to experience nature indoors; these are awe-inspiring, brilliant and beautiful, indoor places that belong on any adventurer’s bucket list.

Aquariums In The U.S.

Monterey Bay Aquarium, 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940, USA

Monterey Bay Aquarium/Facebook

• Address: 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940
• Who Would Love It: Sea otters and jellyfish lovers. They are also known for their Kelp Forest exhibit.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Coast Trail Historic Home

In the charming coastal town of Monterey, California, the marvelous marine world comes alive at Monterey Bay Aquarium. A world-class aquarium that's widely regarded as one of the best in the U.S., Monterey Bay Aquarium is celebrated for its thriving kelp forest that's home to wildlife like wolf eels and leopard sharks. For those into the ocean's more cuddly creatures, this aquarium also houses penguins and sea otters, the latter of which never fail to put a smile on spectators' faces. Adorable animals and captivating sea creatures aside, Monterey Bay Aquarium stands out for its commitment to conservation and education. The aquarium is home to a deep sea reef that visitors can not only experience but also help conserve - and Monterey Bay Aquarium doesn't shy away from provocative programming that covers tough topics calling on visitors to take action and affect positive change.

Seattle Aquarium, 1483 Alaskan Way Pier 59, Seattle, WA 98101, USA

Seattle Aquarium/Facebook

• Address: 1483 Alaskan Way Pier 59, Seattle, WA 98101
• Who Would Love It: Future marine biologists. It's the region's premier resource for hands-on marine experiences and conservation education.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Waterfront Condo

Most people associate Seattle with its outdoor scene - the public market, beaches, and amazing recreation - but the city is also home to one of the most wondrous *indoor* worlds in the country. Docked on the city's iconic Elliott Bay, Seattle Aquarium is an entire world unto itself, offering visitors the unique opportunity to spend the day with captivating creatures such as sea and river otters, seals, moon jellyfish, lionfish, and sea anemones. Known for its interactive and hands-on programming, the Seattle Aquarium is in the process of completing its Ocean Pavilion, a space dedicated to ocean conservation and community awareness and engagement. While the Seattle Aquarium certainly offers an amazing indoor experience, its message extends far beyond its walls.

Advertisement

Oregon Coast Aquarium, 2820 SE Ferry Slip Rd, Newport, OR 97365, USA

Oregon Coast Aquarium/Facebook

• Address: 2820 SE Ferry Slip Rd, Newport, OR 97365
• Who Would Love It: Those who would love to get up close and personal. The aquarium offers octopus and sea jelly encounters.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Waterfront Townhome

The beaches and rock formations of the Oregon Coast typically steal the spotlight, but there's a world of indoor wonder in the state that's just as beguiling. The Oregon Coast Aquarium has over 15,000 animals, with numerous exhibits and interactive areas in its 23-acre facility. Known for its exciting and immersive programming, the Oregon Coast Aquarium offers an unrivaled underwater experience for the inquisitive and curious. This indoor attraction quite literally puts guests there, with "there" being beneath the ocean and quite literally surrounded by fascinating fish and marine life.

Advertisement

Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60605, USA

Shedd Aquarium/Facebook

• Address: 1200 S DuSable Lk Shr Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
• Who Would Love It: Whale enthusiasts. One of the oldest and most respected aquariums in North America is known for its beluga whales.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Downtown Michigan Ave Condo

A quintessential part of the Chicago lakefront, Shedd Aquarium has long captured the hearts of animal lovers young and old. Beluga whales, stingrays, saltwater fish, dolphins, and sea lions all call Shedd Aquarium home, providing visitors with an experience that's truly unparalleled. Some of the world's rarest animals reside here, too; one mammal you're unlikely to encounter anywhere else is the white-sided dolphin. There are only 20 within the North American aquariums, some of whom were actually born at Shedd. Since 1930, this has been a top attraction for locals and tourists alike, making the mesmerizing and marvelous marine world accessible to all and a great way to experience nature indoors.

National Aquarium, 501 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA

National Aquarium/Facebook

• Address: 501 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202
• Who Would Love It: Those interested in coral reef restoration. Visit the award-winning exhibit, Blacktip Reef.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Historic Federal Hill Home

The National Aquarium is an American icon that's a quintessential part of the Baltimore waterfront. It's located right on Baltimore Harbor, and its colorful facade is the first signal that this place is not your average aquarium. It's home to 800+ species of unique and colorful creatures, from jellyfish and eels to dolphins and stingrays. There are non-aquatic areas (and animals) here too; the Amazon River Forest is a whole world unto itself complete with amphibians, reptiles, birds, and even a two-toed sloth.

New England Aquarium, 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, USA

New England Aquarium/Facebook

• Address: 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
• Who Would Love It: Those who love seals. Check out the northern fur seals, California sea lions, giant Pacific octopus, and African penguins.
• Where To Stay Nearby: North End Apartment

Nestled in Boston Harbor, the New England Aquarium welcomes a staggering million guests each year. The popularity is well-earned; this waterfront attraction is home to the biggest shark and ray tank on the East Coast, as well as a Marine Mammal Center that's committed to caring for northern fur seals. You'll also find African penguins and sea turtles at the New England Aquarium, which boasts numerous hands-on exhibits offering bucket-list-worthy experiences such as petting live sharks and stingrays.

Alaska SeaLife Center, 301 Railway Ave, Seward, AK 99664, USA

Alaska SeaLife Center/Facebook

• Address: 301 Railway Ave, Seward, AK 99664
• Who Would Love It: Those who love a good cause. SeaLife is a public aquarium and Alaska's only permanent marine mammal rehabilitation facility.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Charming Retro Apartment

For ocean enthusiasts, the marine wildlife of Alaska is unrivaled. The Last Frontier is, without a doubt, one of the most fascinating places on the planet; its flora and fauna, sublime scenery, and natural wonders stoke and satisfy even the deepest wanderlust. While outdoor recreation and adventures abound in Alaska, you'll find some amazing indoor attractions here, too. The Alaska SeaLife Center is one such place; here you'll find seals and sea lions, salmon and rocketfish, king crab and sea urchins, and even avian species like red-legged kittiwakes and puffins. The Alaska SeaLife Center opened in Seward in 1998, with multiple missions as a non-profit, scientific research facility and public aquarium overlooking Resurrection Bay. In addition to its captivating creatures, animal rescue, and rehabilitation is a major effort of the center, inspiring visitors to become stewards of our big and beautiful world.

Related Stories

I Took 13 Overnight Trips Last Year, And Here Are 13 Travel Products My Family Can't Live Without

We Can't Resist The 51 Most Playful Airbnbs In America, One For Each State

Here Are The Top 15 States In America For A Summer Road Trip, According To OnlyInYourState Readers

Zoos In The U.S.

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107, USA

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium/Facebook

• Address: 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107
• Who Would Love It: Everyone! Walk through the world's largest indoor desert and the largest indoor rainforest in North America.
• Where To Stay Nearby: The Bancroft Belle

Smack in the middle of the Midwest, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is easily Nebraska's best-kept secret. Within the state, of course, The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a top-rated attraction for Nebraskans - and for good reason. It’s one of the most highly-rated zoos in the country that's home to the world’s largest indoor swamp and indoor desert, plus hundreds of species of plants and animals. While it's rare to have both a zoo and an aquarium in the same space, this Nebraska attraction has both, and neither plays second fiddle. The Henry Doorly Zoo is considered one of the top five zoos in the world, and its aquarium is highly acclaimed, too. While not every exhibit here is indoors, there are many, many opportunities to experience nature inside at the wild and wonderful Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.

Advertisement

Saint Louis Zoo, 1 Government Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA

Saint Louis Zoo/Facebook

• Address: St. Louis, MO 63110
• Who Would Love It: Those who would love to check out the gorillas, chimpanzees, and Sumatran orangutans.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Urban Industrial Loft

Another Midwest gem, the Saint Louis Zoo is 90 acres of wondrous wildlife that's free and open to the public for exploration and enjoyment. Approximately 13,000 animals - more than 550 species - call the Saint Louis Zoo home, guaranteeing the chance to get up close with your favorite members of the animal kingdom. Indoor attractions abound, too, with the Charles H. Hoessle Herpetarium a fan favorite that demystifies some of the world's most captivating crocodilians.

Botanical Gardens In The U.S.

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218, USA

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden/Facebook

• Address: 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218
• Who Would Love It: Manicured garden lovers. The arboretum is a 66-acre display garden featuring 19 finely manicured gardens.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Quaint & Cozy Lakewood Home

Located on the shores of White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is considered by many to be one of the country’s most beautiful and colorful gardens. While known primarily for its outdoor exhibits and events, this garden has numerous indoor features worth seeking out, too. The Rory Meyers Children’s Garden is one such place; it's home to a spacious Exploration Center Plant Lab where even the littlest explorers can get a hands-on lesson in nature.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203, USA

Franklin Park Conservatory

• Address: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203
• Who Would Love It: Blown glass admirers. The conservatory showcases exotic plant collections, special exhibitions, and Dale Chihuly artworks.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Trendy Short North Townhome

A glorious gem in Columbus, Ohio, Franklin Park Conservatory is 13 acres filled with the world's most glorious flowers and plants. Several different biomes coexist within the conservatory, offering guests the unique opportunity to traipse from the humid Amazon Rainforest to the arid American Southwest without stepping foot outside of Ohio - or even outdoors. For those into art, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens boasts numerous pieces by acclaimed sculptor Dave Chihuly; these dynamic and colorful pieces complement nature in the most enchanting way.

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, Estabrook Drive, Saint Paul, MN, USA

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory/Facebook

• Address: 1225 Estabrook Dr, St Paul, MN 55103
• Who Would Love It: Exotic plant and flower fans.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Chelsea Blue Home

Minnesota is home to one of the largest free zoos in the U.S. that somehow remains stubbornly under the radar. The Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is 14.5 acres of amazing animals, many of which prefer to spend their days indoors. In fact, one could put together a robust indoor itinerary at the Como Zoo, admiring the penguins, exotic birds, reptiles, and fish that call it home - and then there's an entire indoor plant world to explore, too. If you've visited the Como Zoo, you know that it is also a huge conservatory comprised of several buildings dedicated to the care and display of plants from around the world. The Sunken Garden is perhaps the most popular area, with paths bordered by water and plants. In short, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is a beautiful, bucket-list-worthy experience you can only have in Minnesota.

Unique Attractions In The U.S.

Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark, 193 Resort Dr, Tannersville, PA 18372, USA

Camelback Lodge & Indoor Waterpark/Facebook

• Address: 193 Resort Dr, Tannersville, PA 18372
• Who Would Love It: Thrill seekers.

Experience nature indoors by soaking up the sun shining through Pensylvania's biggest texlon roof at one of America's top indoor waterparks. You'll find 13 exciting water slides, comfy cabanas, and epic thrill rides like The Lost River Lazy River and The Great Ka-Ka-Gawa Wave Pool. You can stay a night or two at one of their suites or get a Day Ticket to join in on some waterpark fun. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your family vacation getaway to Aquatopia.

Advertisement

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560, USA

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

• Address: 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560
• Who Would Love It: Aviation and space aficionados.
• Where To Stay Nearby: The Wharf Townhouse

Did you know that the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum houses the world's largest and most important aviation and space artifacts? This incredible collection covers every aspect of human flight, works of art, and historical materials related to these fields. Explore standout exhibits like Destination Moon and One World Connected - it's truly a must-see for anyone interested in the history of flight and exploration. Entry is always free, but timed entry passes are required, making it the perfect rainy-day activity for the whole family.

Paraclete XP Indoor Skydiving, 190 Paraclete Dr, Raeford, NC 28376, USA

Paraclete Xp SkyVenture/Facebook

• Address: 190 Paraclete Dr, Raeford, NC 28376
• Who Would Love It: Thrill seekers.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Fort Bragg Home

Have you heard of Paraclete XP SkyVenture? It's the largest indoor skydiving wind tunnel in America, and they've been helping customers enjoy the thrill of indoor skydiving for over ten years. If you've ever wanted to experience the rush of flying without the risks of jumping from an airplane, wind tunnel skydiving is the perfect activity. Indoor skydiving is a family-friendly activity, suitable for all ages so everyone can participate.

There are so many ways to experience nature in this beautiful country of ours — indoors and out. Gardens, greenhouses, zoos, aquariums, entire indoor biomes… these indoor activities across America are sure to inspire any adventure seeker’s wanderlust. Have you been to any of these places? We’d love to hear from you – let us know!

Need more ideas on ways to experience nature indoors? A great way to experience nature indoors is by visiting the largest public indoor garden in New England. More of an indoor amusement park type? Ride carousels, bumper cars, and roller coasters at the year-round 21,000+ square feet Adventuredome in Las Vegas. This entertainment complex even has old-school arcade games and a rock climbing wall – a must-visit!

To discover incredible destinations (both indoors and out!) across the USA, follow OnlyInYourState on Instagram.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Only In Your State (@onlyinyourstate)