OdySea Aquarium Discovery Program

May 12, 2026, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

OdySea Aquarium, 9500 East Vía de Ventura Suite A-100, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, USA

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The OdySea Aquarium Discovery Program is a thoughtfully designed, real-world learning experience that brings marine science to life through observation, inquiry, and exploration. Hosted by Discoveries in the Desert, this program gives homeschool students the opportunity to explore ocean habitats, aquatic ecosystems, and animal adaptations while developing scientific thinking skills in an engaging and memorable environment.

Held at OdySea Aquarium, this experience transforms a visit to the aquarium into an intentional educational opportunity where students observe, question, and connect science concepts to real-world ecosystems.

Program Overview

Location: OdySea Aquarium

Ages: Pre-K through 8th grade *Please note, children under the age of 4 are not permitted on this program.

Family Participation: Parent/guardian supervision required (general program)

Ticket Policy:

• 1 Adult per Student Required: Every student ticket requires the purchase of 1 adult ticket, unless the student is enrolled in the limited Guided Drop-Off Experience.

• Adult-to-Student Ratio: To maximize program space for students, there is a strict limit of 1 adult per 1 student.

• Drop-Off Option: Students enrolled in the Guided Small-Group Drop-Off Experience do not need an accompanying adult ticket.

Drop-Off Option: The student drop-off program is available for an additional fee and limited to a maximum of 6 students per day. Limited to 6 students for a safe and personalized learning experience. Students in the drop-off option will:

• Be under the direct care and supervision of the company owner

• Participate in the welcome activity and guided experiences

• Receive additional structure and support throughout the morning

For more information about the drop-off option, please contact us directly at 480-762-8378 or info@discoveriesaz.com.

Specific meeting location details, maps, parking information, and directions will be emailed one week prior to the program date.

Before We Visit: STEM Education Packet

Each registered student receives a comprehensive STEM education packet designed to prepare them for the aquarium experience before the program day. This multi-lesson packet helps students build background knowledge so they arrive ready to observe, ask questions, and make meaningful connections during the visit.

The packet includes:

• Age-flexible science lessons on marine ecosystems and ocean habitats

• Activities exploring aquatic animal adaptations and survival strategies

• Vocabulary and observation practice

• Critical thinking and inquiry-based exercises

• Pre-visit discussion prompts and reflection opportunities

This preparation transforms the experience from a simple visit into a deeper learning opportunity where students actively apply what they have learned.

On-Site Learning Experience

At the start of the program, families will participate in a brief guided welcome activity designed to:

• Introduce the day’s science focus

• Spark curiosity about marine life

• Set observation goals for students

• Provide structure for exploration throughout the aquarium

Students will then explore the aquarium with intentional learning prompts woven throughout the experience.

Through guided observation and interactive engagement, students will:

• Examine how aquatic animals are uniquely adapted to survive in ocean and freshwater environments

• Compare different aquatic habitats and ecosystems

• Practice scientific observation skills

• Ask questions and form evidence-based conclusions

Activities are designed to be accessible for younger learners while still engaging and thought-provoking for older students.

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Learning Focus

The OdySea Aquarium Discovery Program supports:

• Scientific observation

• Understanding aquatic ecosystems and ocean habitats

• Exploring animal adaptations

• Critical thinking and inquiry

• Connecting science concepts to real-world environments

This program transforms an aquarium visit into an intentional educational experience designed to inspire curiosity, deepen understanding, and help students explore the incredible diversity of life beneath the ocean’s surface.

Family Participation Model

This program is designed as a family-participation learning experience, meaning parents or guardians attend alongside their students and remain responsible for supervision throughout the visit.

This model allows:

• Younger learners to feel supported

• Families to learn together

• Flexible pacing based on student interest and age

Guided Small-Group Drop-Off Experience

Students in the drop-off program will participate in the Discovery Program as part of a small guided group led by the instructor. Throughout the visit, students will explore the activities together while receiving additional structure, encouragement, and opportunities for teamwork and social interaction.

This small-group format allows students to build confidence, connect with peers, and fully engage in the experience while participating in the planned activities. Many students enjoy the opportunity to experience the program alongside a small group of peers in a supportive and structured environment.

Space is intentionally limited to 6 students in order to maintain a safe and high-quality experience. This option is especially helpful for families attending with multiple children or younger siblings.

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Reserve Your Spot

Space is limited in order to maintain a high-quality learning experience for participating families. Early registration is encouraged.