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Discovery World to Build Immersive Aquarium

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. discovery-world-to-build-immersive-aquarium.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 10:16 GMT by fox6now
      Locale: Wisconsin, UNITED STATES

Milwaukee, WI - February 13th, 2026 - Discovery World, Milwaukee's premier science and technology center, is embarking on a significant modernization project headlined by the construction of a state-of-the-art, 65,000-gallon walk-through aquarium. The ambitious overhaul aims to dramatically enhance the visitor experience, moving beyond traditional observation towards full immersion in aquatic ecosystems. The announcement, made earlier today, signals a new chapter for the popular destination, promising a more dynamic and educational environment for all ages.

The current aquarium, while a long-standing feature of Discovery World, has reached its limitations. According to Bryan Gordan, President and CEO of Discovery World, the existing structure restricts the diversity of species that can be housed and fails to provide the engaging experience modern audiences demand. "Our current aquarium does not allow for that feeling of being within the ecosystem," Gordan explained. "We want visitors to feel like they're experiencing this ecosystem as opposed to observing it."

The new walk-through tank is designed to address these shortcomings. Unlike conventional aquariums featuring viewing panels, the walk-through design will allow guests to literally step inside a meticulously recreated aquatic environment. This will offer 360-degree views of marine life, creating a truly immersive sensation. Details released today indicate the tank will initially focus on a Caribbean reef ecosystem, but future iterations could feature other diverse habitats. Experts consulted on the project believe this approach will foster a deeper connection with the natural world and inspire greater conservation efforts.

This isn't simply a tank replacement; it's a complete reimagining of the aquarium space. The project includes extensive renovations to surrounding exhibits, integrating interactive displays and educational elements designed to complement the new central feature. These enhancements will explore themes of oceanography, marine biology, and the importance of preserving aquatic biodiversity. The exhibits will cater to a range of learning styles, offering hands-on activities for children, in-depth information for adults, and accessibility features for all visitors.

Beyond the aquarium itself, Discovery World is undertaking significant infrastructure upgrades to support the increased capacity and enhanced technology. These improvements encompass life support systems, water filtration, and climate control, ensuring a sustainable and healthy environment for both the aquatic life and the visitors. These upgrades will also improve the overall energy efficiency of the facility, aligning with Discovery World's commitment to environmental responsibility.

"This is the most significant change we've made to the aquarium in quite some time," Gordan stated. "This is just the first phase. We will continue to make improvements over the next few years." This phased approach indicates that Discovery World envisions a continuing evolution, with future projects potentially encompassing updates to its freshwater exhibits, the expansion of its digital technology center, and the development of new educational programs.

The long-term vision for Discovery World is to become a leading global hub for science and technology education. The aquarium renovation is a critical step in achieving this goal, attracting a wider audience and positioning the center as a premier destination for both learning and entertainment. The impact on Milwaukee's tourism industry is also anticipated to be substantial, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond.

The project is expected to generate significant economic activity in the surrounding area, creating jobs during the construction phase and boosting local businesses through increased tourism. Funding for the modernization project comes from a combination of private donations, corporate sponsorships, and state grants, demonstrating strong community support for Discovery World's mission.

Construction is slated to begin in late spring of 2026, with the new aquarium expected to open to the public in the spring of 2027. Discovery World will remain partially open during the construction period, with efforts made to minimize disruption to visitors. Updates on the project's progress will be available on the Discovery World website and social media channels. The organization is actively seeking volunteers and community involvement throughout the renovation process, offering opportunities for individuals to contribute to this exciting transformation.