The Lyon Aquarium, located in La Mulatière, has officially opened its expanded facilities to the public on December 18, 2025, just in time for the Christmas holidays. This major transformation introduces two primary new attractions: the ‘Ocean 360’ immersive digital space and the ‘Marine Glow’ ecosystems, significantly enhancing the visitor experience.
New Immersive Experiences
Ocean 360: This new addition is an approximately 300 m² immersive digital room that utilizes 360° projections to transport visitors into the vastness of the oceans. The design deliberately avoids the use of large captive animals, focusing instead on conveying the grandeur of marine environments through technological immersion.
Marine Glow: This section is a newly designed area centered around light and deep-sea atmospheres. It complements the existing exhibits by offering more contemplative environments, showcasing the beauty and mystery of underwater life in a unique way.
Expanded Surface and Enhanced Journey
With this expansion, the Lyon Aquarium now spans approximately 3,500 m², adding nearly 1,000 m² of new space. The facility now boasts six major aquatic universes, an increase from the previous four. The visitor journey guides guests from the waters of the Rhône and Saône rivers to the depths of the ocean, incorporating enhanced mediation through games, workshops, and educational tools suitable for all ages.
Marine Glow: Three Unique Ecosystems
The ‘Marine Glow’ area highlights three distinct ecosystems:
- Depths of the Sea of Japan: Home to impressive giant Japanese crabs, these creatures are rarely seen in aquariums, offering a unique viewing opportunity.
- Bali Coral Reef: This vibrant reef features growing corals, which are also used to supply cuttings to other European aquariums, demonstrating the facility’s commitment to marine conservation.
- Breton Kelp Forest: Large, swaying kelp plants are showcased, teeming with numerous coastal species, providing a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of these underwater forests.
Philosophy and Animal Welfare
The expansion underscores a shift in the aquarium’s philosophy, emphasizing ecosystems and their intricate balance rather than focusing on a few ‘star’ specimens. Each basin is conceived as a coherent fragment of the ocean, illustrating the interconnectedness of marine life. The institution prioritizes limiting wild-caught specimens, favoring animals from breeding programs, exchanges with other aquariums, and on-site reproductions. Furthermore, the aquarium has significantly reduced the use of antibiotics in favor of gentler treatment methods, while also improving its overall environmental performance through initiatives related to energy consumption and plastic reduction.
Practical Information
The expanded Aquarium of Lyon opened its doors to the public on December 18, 2025. The full adult admission price is approximately 19.50 € on-site, with discounted dated tickets available online. A visit duration of approximately 2 hours is recommended to fully experience all the attractions. The Aquarium is open daily from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM).
This strategic expansion and renewed focus on pedagogy, environment, and immersive experiences mark a new phase of development for the Lyon Aquarium. The goal is to reach 250,000 visitors annually, while also strengthening its role as an educational and scientific institution. The project is supported by scientific and environmental expertise, with efforts to limit natural sampling, prioritize animal welfare, and implement sustainable site management practices, including photovoltaic panels and a white roof to reduce heat.
Source: [peche.com](https://www.peche.com/article/50856/nouvelle-version-de-l-aquarium-de-lyon-plonger-dans-les-splendeurs-sous-marines), [lyon-entreprises.com](https://www.lyon-entreprises.com/actualites/article/laquarium-de-lyon-inaugure-une-extension-strategique-et-renouvelle-son-modele), [lebonbon.fr](https://www.lebonbon.fr/lyon/loisirs/aquarium-lyon-extension-1400-m%C2%B2-aventure-immersive/), [leprogres.fr](https://www.leprogres.fr/culture-loisirs/2025/12/16/l-aquarium-de-lyon-s-agrandit-la-nouvelle-extension-devoilee-ce-jeudi), [ledauphine.com](https://www.ledauphine.com/culture-loisirs/2025/12/17/l-aquarium-s-agrandit), [aquariumlyon.fr](https://www.aquariumlyon.fr/)
