An Animal Crossing Themed Experience Is Happening in Orlando, But Not at Universal Studios

Fans of Animal Crossing: New Horizons can now explore an immersive experience at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. The Animal Crossing: New Horizons Aquarium Tour began on February 13, 2026, and will be available through April 30, 2026. This is one of several aquarium events happening across the US in 2026.

The Animal Crossing: New Horizons Aquarium Tour is a partnership between Nintendo and aquariums across the country. In 2026, the tour will bring the world of Animal Crossing to life at Sea Life locations, including Orlando.

What to Expect

As a huge Nintendo fan, I was really excited to hear about this! When you visit participating aquariums, you can take part in a fun Stamp Rally – basically, you collect themed stamps as you find different character spots around the aquarium. And if you have a Nintendo Account, you can even scan kiosks to earn My Nintendo Platinum Points while you’re there! It’s a great way to make your aquarium visit even more rewarding.

Visitors can snap photos with life-sized character cutouts throughout the aquarium, and learn about the animals while connecting them to characters from the game.

Throughout the tour, you’ll have chances to meet and take photos with characters dressed as favorites from Animal Crossing, like Isabelle, Tom Nook, and K.K. Slider. These meet-and-greets will happen on certain weekends. If you’re coming to the Orlando stop, here are the possible dates:

  • Feb. 13-15, 2026
  • March 20-22, 2026
  • April 3-5, 2026

You can also buy official Animal Crossing items at the event, but quantities are limited.

The special Animal Crossing event at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium is already included with your regular aquarium ticket – you don’t need to buy anything extra to enjoy it!

Context

The tour celebrating the Animal Crossing game has made its first Florida stop in Orlando. Several Sea Life aquariums nationwide are also participating, including those in California, Texas, New Jersey, Michigan, Minnesota, Arizona, North Carolina, and Missouri.

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, located in ICON Park on International Drive, is home to over 5,000 fascinating sea creatures. Guests can explore a variety of exhibits and enjoy hands-on learning experiences.

Background on Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a relaxing life simulation game that came out in March 2020 for the Nintendo Switch. Players get to build and personalize their own island community filled with friendly animal neighbors. You can enjoy activities like fishing, bug catching, and finding treasures in the sea.

The game heavily features sea creatures. Players catch fish and other marine life and donate them to a museum overseen by a character named Blathers. This blend of learning about the ocean and collecting in the game led to a partnership focused on aquariums. With over 40 million copies sold globally, it’s become one of the most popular games for the Nintendo Switch.

If you’re visiting Orlando in the spring of 2026, the aquarium will be open and running tours at the same time as all the other popular attractions.

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2026-03-01 17:56