Blue Zoo, an interactive aquarium and zoo hybrid that will feature about 100 to 150 different species of animals, will open in July or August on the second floor of the NorthTown Mall, says Blue Zoo co-owner Jon Hepworth.

Customers can expect to see birds, iguanas, snakes, frogs, starfish, stingrays, and a tortoise, among other creatures, Hepworth says.

Blue Zoo has been working on its aquarium filtration since early October, construction on other tenant improvements in the 10,000-plus-square-foot space, led by Spokane-based contractor, At Home LLC, started in January.

To prepare for the aquatic animals, Blue Zoo will be bringing in around 50,000 gallons of both salt water and fresh water, Hepworth says.

Hepworth says Blue Zoo will combine fun with education through hands-on experiences with the animals, such as petting stingrays and playing with starfish. 

The business will have four to seven employees, with an attendant to guide customers at every station.

Virtual reality stations where kids can play games and a theatre room, in which videos about zoology and biology will be on rotation, will provide an educational and inspirational respite for customers.

The entry fee will vary between $12 and $15.

“This aquarium is meant to inspire and educate families,” Hepworth says, adding that the aquarium will bring in animals that some people might not get to see otherwise.