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Biosphere 2 Review

June 8, 2017






We started out the trip with a stop at the Biosphere 2. If you are unfamiliar with Biosphere 2, it is a massive science experiment north of Tucson. Back in the early 1990’s, 8 researchers were sealed inside a self-contained structure to test the feasibility of recreating Earth’s biomes to sustain life in outer space. For two years and 20 minutes, these researchers lived inside with no physical contact with the outside world. The food they ate, the water they drank, and the air they breathed were all created inside the building. Today, the center is owned by the University of Arizona and is still used for research. It is also open for tours and educational opportunities.


The tour starts in the warm and humid Rainforest where vines and plants tower over you. Next, you make your way to the Ocean with a coral reef, followed by the Mangrove Wetlands Savanna Grasslands and lastly the Fog Desert. If you don’t have the money or time to travel to all of these destinations, the Biosphere 2 can show you these in about 30 minutes. In addition to the biomes, you can see the engineering that makes the research possible. The buildings lungs are the coolest thing I’ve seen. After the official tour, you are on your own to explore the ocean exhibit and the living quarters. Plan on 2-3 hours to see everything they have to offer.



In addition to the biomes, you can see the engineering that makes the research possible. The buildings lungs are the coolest thing I’ve seen!  Our baby learned what an echo is there, too dang cute. After the official tour, you are on your own to explore the ocean exhibit and the living quarters. Plan on 2-3 hours to see everything they have to offer.




Our favorite things were:
  • Experiencing the different ecosystems. The kids especially liked the rainforest.
  • The giant lung.  We loved the echo.
  • Exploring the ocean after the tour was over.  It was like an aquarium.

Good to know:

  • You cannot bring a stroller.  If you wear your baby they need to be in a front carrier.
  • Dress for the current weather outside as part of the tour is outdoors.  The temperatures do change so layers are a good idea.  Walking shoes are also recommended as the tour is about 1 mile and includes quite a few stairs.  It is still an easy tour, our 4 year old handled it just fine. (We were all in flip flops and did fine.)
  • You cannot bring food into Biosphere 2 but you can bring in a water bottle.  This would be a good idea.  They do have an onsite cafe.  If you are going around a meal time, either plan on eating at the cafe, or pack a meal in a cooler as it is ways from town.

You can find Biosphere 2 onFacebook and Twitter.  You can find any additional information you might need on their site including pricing and ticket sales, a more detailed description, and more.


Check out our echo in the lung video.










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We received complimentary admission in exchange for our review.  All thoughts are my own.