Guide to Poulsbo Aquarium SEA Discovery Center

About the SEA Discovery Center

The SEA Discovery Center humbly stands on the ancestral homelands of the Coast Salish Peoples. We express our gratitude to the Suquamish Tribe and the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe for the opportunity to operate on these lands and waters. The SEA Discovery Center aims to be an unparalleled regional marine science resource for the Pacific Northwest. Our mission is to advocate for stewardship of the Salish Sea through community connections to the sea's animals, habitats, cultures, and people.

The SEA Discovery Center has a rich history dating back to its beginnings in the 1960s as the Poulsbo Marine Science Center. After relocating to downtown Poulsbo in the 1990s, the center temporarily closed in 2005 before reopening in 2006. In 2016, the Poulsbo Marine Science Center was formally gifted to Western Washington University and renamed the SEA Discovery Center. Despite pandemic-related closures in 2020, the SEA Discovery Center persevered and reopened with a renewed vision in 2022.

The Team

The SEA Discovery Center is powered by a passionate team, including:

• Bridget Anderson, Director of Operations and Outreach
• Emily Bjornsgard, Aquarium Curator
• Dr. Kelly Bushnell, Educational Specialist
• Holly Hill, Senior Director of Western Locations, Outreach and Continuing Education

This knowledgeable and dedicated staff oversees the SEA Discovery Center's exhibits, educational programs, and community initiatives. Their combined expertise and commitment is the driving force behind the center's mission.

Nearby Attractions

The SEA Discovery Center is conveniently located near several other popular Poulsbo attractions, including:

• Muriel Iverson Williams Waterfront Park
• Town & Country Market
• Downtown Poulsbo shops and restaurants
• Poulsbo Fish Park

Make a day of exploring Poulsbo by pairing a visit to the SEA Discovery Center with a stroll along the waterfront, shopping downtown, or dining at one of the local restaurants. Check out this article on 10 Fun Things to Do in Poulsbo for more ideas.

Exploring Poulsbo

Poulsbo is situated along Liberty Bay with access to public beaches, parks, and marinas. Nearby towns like Suquamish, Indianola, and Kingston also offer dining, shopping, recreational activities, and cultural attractions. Don't miss the Suquamish Museum to learn about the indigenous heritage of the area.

Places to Stay in Poulsbo

Connect Online

Visit their website at seadiscovery.org to view exhibits and program schedules. Follow on social media at @seadiscoverycenter on Facebook and Instagram.

Conclusion

The SEA Discovery Center is an invaluable community resource for fostering awareness of our local marine environments. We encourage everyone to visit the center, get involved in their educational initiatives, and help support their mission of marine advocacy and stewardship. Experiencing the SEA Discovery Center is sure to deepen your connection to the Salish Sea and inspire you to protect it.