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Downtown Aquarium in Houston: The Complete Guide

Teeming with hundreds of creatures and plants from the deep blue sea, the Houston Downtown Aquarium is a marvel. Tour exciting exhibits, go on thrilling aquatic-themed rides, eat at an undersea restaurant, and more at one of Houston’s most popular tourist attractions. Here’s everything you need to know before you visit, including parking info, what to see, how to get there, and some general tips for visitors with children.

The Downtown Aquarium was borne out of a redevelopment project including Fire Station No. 1 and the Central Waterworks Building. The result is a 6-acre complex with a 500,000-gallon aquarium housing 300 different species of fish and sea life, a restaurant and bar, eight interactive exhibits, and a collection of six amusement park rides including a Ferris wheel and a train ride through the shark tank.

Downtown Aquarium Highlights

The Houston Downtown Aquarium has eight exciting exhibits, each of which has its own special theme. Some standouts include:

• The Rainforest offers a look at the world’s tropical rainforests and life inside their rivers; there are red-bellied piranhas, freshwater stingrays, colorful rainforest frogs, and even an emerald tree boa.
• Step inside the Shipwreck, a sunken hull of a 17th-century Spanish galleon, and explore diverse oceanic life ranging from living coral reefs to moray eels to a giant Pacific octopus.
• The Sunken Temple features lionfish, pufferfish, tarantulas, an electric eel, and a Tiger Reticulated Python that’s well over 20 feet long.
• Younger kiddos especially will love checking out the Discovery Zone, a hands-on encounter area with snakes, bearded dragons, and more. 

Games and Rides

You’ll likely want to reserve a full afternoon for the outdoor Games and Rides area, which features fun carnival-style games and amusement rides for all ages. Rides include the Diving Bell Ferris Wheel, an aquatic-themed carousel, and the Shark Voyage, a train that takes you through the center of a 200,000-gallon shark tank. 

Events, Special Programming, and Guided Tours

Before you go, be sure to check the (always packed) events calendar for a full list of the aquarium’s special programming each month, to plan your visit accordingly. There’s always something fun going on—for instance, every Friday night during the summer is Latin Beats Night, when visitors can enjoy live music and salsa lessons from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. On Saturday nights, live bands perform from the Downtown Aquarium stage for Aquarium Live. The aquarium also hosts summer camps, educational classes, and career programs for teens, among other events.

Tips for Families With Children

The aquarium is the perfect place to take children, of course. Before you go, check out the following tips and information:

• Plan to spend at least an hour exploring the first floor, which is the Aquarium Adventure and Stingray Floor. There are huge floor-to-ceiling viewing tanks, which allow kids to get up-close-and-personal with all the exciting marine life.
• The Games and Rides area of the aquarium (which is all outdoors) is essentially a mini-amusement park (with an array of age-appropriate attractions, as well as concessions), so you’ll want to reserve plenty of time for this as well. 
• Children under the age of 2 are granted free admission to everything, including the Games and Rides area.
• Note that strollers are welcome but there is no designated stroller parking outside of the stingray reef on the first floor.
• Weekdays are the least crowded time to visit, especially if you go during the morning.  

How to Get There

If you’re coming from North Houston, take I-35 South and exit McKinney; turn left on Bagby. If you’re coming from North Houston, take I-10 East to Smith exit and turn right on Franklin, then turn left on Bagby. And from South Houston, take Highway 288 to I-45 North, then exit Houston Ave/Memorial Drive. Make a right at Memorial; go to Bagby and make a left at the light. The Downtown Aquarium will be on your left. 

Note: Most downtown Houston hotels provide shuttle service to and from the aquarium.

Parking Information

Self-parking and valet are both options at the Houston Aquarium. Self-parking is $8; valet is $10. The parking lot is open from 9:30 a.m. until midnight, and vehicles may not be left overnight. Do keep in mind that the lot only takes cash.  

Tips for Visitors

• The aquarium maintains a strict food and beverage policy; hard and soft coolers, bottled water, glass containers, and food are not allowed in the amusement area. Also, you can’t leave with alcohol that was served on the premises.
• There are several items that are prohibited, including lawn chairs or folding chairs, bikes, skateboards, etc.; for the full list, see the aquarium's website . 
• For those who will be touring multiple Houston attractions, it may be worth it to get a CityPASS , which includes prepaid admission to five of the biggest attractions; apart from the Downtown Aquarium, you’ll gain access to the Space Center, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and your choice of either the Houston Zoo or the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and your choice of either the Kemah Boardwalk All-Day Ride Pass or the Children’s Museum of Houston. 

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Downtown Aquarium Houston – tickets, prices, timings, what to expect

The Houston Downtown Aquarium is a captivating destination that houses the wonders of the deep blue sea. 

This 6-acre (2.4-hectare) complex boasts a 500,000-gallon aquarium with hundreds of fascinating creatures and plants.

This sprawling aquarium is home to over 200 species of aquatic animals, including sharks, stingrays, and even a white tiger. 

Whether you’re a marine enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or food lover, the Downtown Aquarium has something for everyone.

Visitors can learn about marine animals through the interactive exhibits, watch shows and demonstrations, and even feed some animals.

This article shares everything you must know before booking tickets for Houston Downtown Aquarium.

Top Downtown Aquarium Houston Tickets

# Downtown Aquarium Houston tickets # Combo ticket: Space Center Houston + Downtown Aquarium Houston # Houston CityPASS

Table of contents

What to expect , where to book tickets , how do online tickets work , ticket price, downtown aquarium houston tickets, combo ticket: space center houston + downtown aquarium houston, how to reach downtown aquarium houston, best time to visit, how long does the tour take, faqs about downtown aquarium.

Downtown Aquarium Houston is great for families, school groups, and anyone who loves animals and the underwater world.

Here are some exciting things that you can expect at the aquarium.

Captivating exhibits  

Discover the Rainforest Shipwreck and Sunken Temple exhibits, showcasing tropical rainforest life, a sunken Spanish galleon, and exotic creatures like lionfish and pufferfish.

Younger visitors can enjoy hands-on encounters in the Discovery Zone.

Thrilling games and rides

Indulge in carnival-style games and amusement rides, including the Diving Bell Ferris Wheel and Shark Voyage, a train that passes through a 200,000-gallon shark tank.

Best dining experience  

Dine at the Aquarium Restaurant, surrounded by mesmerizing marine life exhibits, offering a one-of-a-kind underwater atmosphere.

Educational and interactive shows

Engage with knowledgeable staff, attend presentations, and learn about marine life conservation efforts.

Back to Top

Tickets for Downtown Aquarium Houston are available online or at the attraction.

Booking your tickets online in advance is always better.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.

Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointment.

Go to the Downtown Aquarium Texas booking page , select your preferred date and number of tickets, and buy the tickets right away.

After the purchase, you will receive the tickets in your email. 

There is no requirement to bring any printouts.

You can walk in and show the ticket on your smartphone.

All day adventure pass tickets for Houston Downtown Aquarium are priced at US$28 for visitors over 42” (107 cm).

All day adventure pass tickets for visitors below 42” (107 cm) are priced at US$26.

Kids under two years can get in free, but they too need a ticket or wristband.

Access all zones and journey through seven captivating exhibits, including the Shipwreck and the Sunken Temple. 

Get up close and personal with stingrays at Stingray Reef and encounter a diverse range of sea life worldwide. 

Enjoy unlimited rides on attractions like the Diving Bell Ferris Wheel with your all-day adventure pass. 

From mesmerizing marine creatures to thrilling rides, the Texas Downtown Aquarium offers a unique blend of education, entertainment, and excitement. 

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (Over 42″/106 cm): US$28 Child Ticket (Under 42″/106 cm): US$26

Distance: 26.7 miles (42.9 km)

Time Taken: 27 min by car

At Space Center Houston, discover the wonders of space as you explore exhibits featuring shuttles, space suits, and artifacts from historical missions. 

Learn about the captivating story of NASA’s history with a documentary in the Destiny Theater, where monumental moments come to life. 

Take a tram tour of the Johnson Space Center, home to astronaut training and mission control. 

Step inside a replica of the Independence Shuttle and marvel at the intricacies of space travel. 

From the colossal Saturn V rocket to the Apollo Mission Control, every corner reveals the triumphs and advancements of humanity’s journey into space. 

Take advantage of the opportunity to experience the thrill and inspiration of Space Center Houston, where the past, present, and future of space exploration converge.

Ticket cost: US$55

Save time and money! Explore Houston’s best attractions with the Houston CityPASS and save big. You can use the pass for 9 consecutive days starting from the date of first use and visit 5 incredible attractions in Houston!

Downtown Aquarium is located at Bagby Street in downtown Houston.

Address: 410 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002, USA. Get Directions.

Downtown Aquarium Houston is only a 7-minute walk from the Smith St @ Rusk St bus stop. Buses 85, 15, 160, 161, 162, 216, 217, and 269 stop at this bus station.

It is only a 7-minute walk from the Milam St @ Texas Ave bus stop. You can take buses 102, 108, 202, 204, and 291.

Travel Terminals

Houston Downtown Aquarium is only a 7-minute walk from the Houston Amtrak Station . (Trains: Cnoc and Sunset limited)

By Light Rail

The aquarium is only a 5-minute walk from the Theater District light rail station. (Light rail: green, purple)

If you are traveling by car, turn on your Google Maps to get started.

For information regarding parking areas near the attraction, click here .

The Downtown Aquarium Houston stays open from 10 am to 8 pm from Sunday to Thursday.

The opening hours are from 10 am to 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

The best time to visit Downtown Aquarium is early morning when it opens, i.e., 10 am, because early mornings are relatively less busy.

To avoid the crowd and have a peaceful outing, you can plan your visit on weekdays.

Visitors take 1 to 2 hours to complete the Downtown Aquarium tour.

But this duration may vary depending on different individual interests and preferences. 

Here are some frequently asked questions by many visitors that might help you.

Houston Downtown Aquarium offers many attractions, including underwater exhibits showcasing diverse marine life, interactive touch pools, and thrilling amusement rides such as the Shark Voyage train ride and the aquatic-themed Ferris wheel.

Yes, Downtown Aquarium Houston boasts several dining options, including the Aquarium Restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by a captivating underwater atmosphere. 

Yes, Downtown Aquarium offers event spaces for various occasions, including corporate events, weddings, birthdays, and more. The unique and vibrant setting adds an exciting touch to any gathering.

Yes, the Houston Downtown Aquarium provides parking facilities for visitors. However, there are parking charges accordingly.

There are no age restrictions for Downtown Aquarium Texas. However, some of the exhibits may be too intense for young children.

Food and beverages are not allowed in the aquarium’s exhibits. However, a restaurant is inside the aquarium where guests can purchase food and drinks.

There is no formal dress code for the Downtown Aquarium. However, guests are asked to dress in a way that is appropriate for a family-friendly environment.

Sources # Aquariumrestaurants.com # Hhbg.org # Wikipedia.org The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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This article was researched & written by

Sri Venkat Mamidi

Sri Venkat Mamidi finds staying in one place boring. He travels to learn about different people, cultures, beliefs, religions, and other things he doesn't know yet. For him, traveling is not about escaping the daily routine but finding out who he really is. Favorite Cities: New Orleans, Budapest, Cape Town.

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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Take the Plunge and Check Out Downtown Aquarium – Houston 

By Nicholas Roma February 13, 2023

Downtown Aquarium – Houston , is a unique and exciting destination for visitors of all ages. Created by repurposing two historic landmarks, Fire Station No. 1 and the Central Waterworks Building, into a six-acre entertainment and dining complex, this 500,000-gallon water wonderland features more than 300 species of aquatic life from around the world.

Experience exhibits showcasing different aquatic and geographic regions, dine at the full-service restaurant, enjoy a drink at the upscale bar, explore the shopping area, and have fun with rides and games. The aquarium also has a fully-equipped ballroom that can host events. With so much to see and do, the Houston aquarium has a little bit of something for everyone.

As soon as you walk through the doors, you'll be greeted by the mesmerizing sights and sounds of the ocean. The aquarium's main tank, located on the first floor, is a true spectacle, featuring a variety of shark species including sand tiger sharks, sandbar sharks, and blacktip reef sharks swimming alongside colorful tropical fish.

Photo courtesy of Downtown Aquarium.

Visitors can also explore the interactive touch tank, where you'll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the aquarium's most popular inhabitants, including rays, starfish, and sea urchins. And for those who are brave enough, there's even an opportunity to feed the animals!

The aquarium also features an alligator and reptile exhibit, where visitors can learn about these fascinating creatures and their role in the ecosystem.

Just outside, visitors can explore Waterwall Park, which features a large, man-made waterfall and lush greenery, making it the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

The aquarium is open to the public year-round. Admission fees apply and the aquarium also offers special events and programming, such as behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters, so be sure to check their website for more information.

Here’s everything you need to know:

What are  some of the exhibits visitors should see? 

Your first stop on the adventure should be the Texas Bayou exhibit! You'll feel like you've been transported to the marshy wetlands of the Gulf Coast that surrounds you. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, turtles, bullfrogs and other wild creatures that call this area home.

Next, dive into the depths of the ocean with a visit to the Shipwreck exhibit. Imagine yourself inside the hull of a sunken 17th century Spanish galleon and take in the beautiful diversity of marine life that surrounds you. Keep an eye out for the giant pacific octopus that call this special exhibit home.

While you’re at the bottom of the sea, explore the Underwater Rig exhibit and get a glimpse of the diverse marine life that calls the Gulf of Mexico home. From snappers and redfish to offshore rig divers, there's always something to see. Keep your eyes peeled!

In the Discovery Zone, you'll come face-to-face with electric eels, seahorses, and a dazzling array of colorful fish. Interactive monitors give you the chance to further explore coral reefs, the arctic seas, and the mysteries of the deep ocean. You may even have the chance to meet one of the  Ambassador Animals up-close during daily Animal Encounters !

Last but not least head over to the Stingray Reef exhibit for a truly unique experience. Here, you can touch and feed live stingrays and examine these deep-water dwellers up close and personal. The touch tanks offer a hands-on experience you won't forget!

Click  here for a full list of exhibits available to the public. 

What else will I find there?

There’s a variety of carnival style games that will give you and your kids a chance to win some unique prizes, like a pink shark with leopard spots!

You can also take a spin on the Diving Bell Ferris Wheel for breathtaking views of the Houston skyline, or hop aboard the Shark Voyage Train for a close up encounter with a variety of shark species.

If you're feeling adventurous, try the Lighthouse Dive Tower for a 65-foot drop that will have your heart racing. And for the little ones, the Aquatic Carousel and Aqua Wheel offer a fun and kid-friendly experience. Some of the rides have height restrictions and are under maintenance, so check their website for more information.

What are some educational activities I can do with my family?

There are plenty of aquarium family programs that offer a unique and exciting way to discover the underwater world! From marine biology to zoology, everyone can find something to learn and enjoy.

Anyone dreaming of becoming a marine biologist, can join the Marine Biologist for a Day program for a perfect opportunity to spend a day behind the scenes where all the scientific action happens. Experience close encounters with exotic species from the deep sea to shallow reefs and everywhere in between. You'll even get to dissect a squid! This program includes a guided tour, biologist dive show, squid dissection, animal feedings and more! T-shirts and lunch are included, so come prepared to get your hands dirty and learn something new.

For a more personal experience the Animals Meet and Greets program will give an up close encounter with one of the ambassador animals. Depending on the animal, you may be able to feed, touch, train, and even take a picture with them. From sloths to porcupines and everything in between, this is an opportunity you won't want to miss. Available by appointment only, so reserve your spot today!

The Wild Dreams Overnight program is a unique opportunity to explore the rainforests of the world and learn about conservation through the eyes of a tiger. Yes the aquarium even has its own tiger! Spend the night in the company of these magnificent creatures and learn all about them through crafts, games, and scavenger hunts. Perfect for scout groups and birthday parties. You’ll get a snack, T-shirt, and hot breakfast in the aquarium restaurant with this program.

The Sea Safari Summer Camp offers a fun and educational experience for kids aged 7-12. Each week our Sea Safari Camp has a unique theme that is sure to excite everyone! All camps include hands-on activities, games, crafts, snacks and lunch, up-close animal encounters, rides, and aquarium tours. Please check their calendar for specific camp dates and call or email the Education Department to receive your registration packet.

For teenagers interested in a career working with animals, the Working on the Wild Side program is the perfect opportunity to learn more about animal care, training, conservation, and the zoo/aquarium industry.

To register, make reservations and check availability for any family programs, please call 713-315-5112 or email  [email protected] . Make sure to check the 2023 calendar of events if you’re looking for an activity on a specific date.

Can you find anything to eat at the aquarium?

Yes! The Downtown Aquarium has a one of a kind dining experience available to visitors and non visitors. You’ll be seated around a 150,000 gallon aquarium that reaches all the way up to the ceiling from the floor, offering you the best view of over 100 species of aquatic life from around the globe. You’ll get a front-row seat to see amazing creatures swim right by your table like moray eels, reticulated rays, shovel-nosed guitarfish, giant groupers weighing over 250 pounds, and a rare napoleon wrasse from Australia.

The restaurant offers not only a visual feast with the aquarium but some yummy morsels for your palate as well. You have a choice between a delicious selection of seafood specialties, steaks, chicken, salads, pasta dishes, and delightful desserts. Here’s a link to the hours of operation are Sunday-Thursday 11 AM - 8:30 PM and Friday-Saturday 11 AM - 10 PM.

The Snack Shack offers quick grab and go concessions located in the lucky lounge. Take a look at the menu for a full list of offerings.

If you’re interested in grabbing a drink The Dive Lounge located on the second floor is an upscale bar where you can relax after a long day of work or before you visit the theater district. You can find the hours of operation here .

How much are tickets?

Single day admission tickets are $27 for anyone 12 and up. If you are visiting with any children under 12, in college or the military, or 55+ admission is $22. In addition to daily admission there are annual passes as low as $70. Be sure to check out the annual pass options on the website to find discounts!

Is there parking at the aquarium?

When it comes to parking, the Houston Aquarium offers a variety of options for its visitors. The parking lot is located directly behind the building and currently only accepts cash payment.

Self-parking is available for $15, while valet parking is available for $18. For non-aquarium guests, the lot is open from 9:30am until 12am and charges $30 for parking. Houston Aquarium members can enjoy discounted self-parking with proof of membership.

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How to Visit the Houston Interactive Aquarium and Animal Preserve

M ost zoos and aquariums offer limited opportunities to get up close and personal with the animal inhabitants, but at the Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve , 15 miles north of Downtown, human-animal interaction is the name of the game. The park is home to over 40 species of marine life, mammals, and birds, most of which visitors can touch, pet, or hand feed. There are other family-friendly activities too. From a bounce house to arcade games, virtual reality to zip lining.

I’m a Texas family travel expert and a mom of tweens. Our family has visited the Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve three times. This guide will give you a complete overview of what to expect from your visit, including strategies on how to get from most from your experience and how to budget for a family-friendly day out.

How to get to Houston Interactive Aquarium

Photo: Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve /Facebook

The Houston Interactive Aquarium is located on 5440 N Sam Houston Parkway E. The easiest way to get here is by car. If you’re familiar with driving in Houston, you probably already know that the city is full of toll roads. Most locals have EZ TAG or TxTag, which automates toll payments. If you’re visiting Houston, one of these toll passes will make your life easier.

Also, make sure you don’t confuse the Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve with the Houston Downtown Aquarium. They are completely different activities.

Parking options

Parking is included in the cost of an admission ticket; however, the parking lot is extremely small and typically fills up within an hour. There is an overflow lot just before you get to the aquarium, but it is not well-marked and easy to miss. Since the aquarium is on a one-way interstate access road, make a U-turn to get to the overflow lot if there’s no space.

There’s a $5 fee to park in the second option, which is unpaved with no parking space marker lines. There is a golf cart shuttle that will take guests to the front door, otherwise, it’s about a five-minute walk.

Tickets and opening hours

Tickets are $24.95 for adults (12+) and $19.95 for kids, military, college students, and seniors 55+. Annual memberships, called Adventure Passes, are $69.95. Purchase three or more Adventure Passes and the price drops to $49.95, making this a sweet deal for families who visit more than twice a year.

Purchase tickets online or at the entrance. Guests who buy online will receive an email with a bar code, but you will still need to queue to have the purchase transferred to an admission card.

Operating hours are 10:00 AM — 7:00 PM Sunday through Thursday and 10:00 AM — 8:00 PM Fridays and Saturdays. The park is open every day except Christmas Day. Holiday hours for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day are clearly stated on the website.

The best time to visit the Houston Interactive Aquarium

This park is busy during summers and school holidays and on weekends. Visitors trying to dodge crowds are best to go during the week when school is in session or after 3:00 PM. Morning arrivals are popular with families with young kids, so timing when the early birds are leaving for the day usually means lighter crowds.

There’s little shade in the outdoor areas and Houston is hot and humid much of the year. The good news is that there are misters in the outdoor areas that do a fair job of keeping guests cool-ish when the temperatures rise. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes and bring sunscreen.

Credits and add-on experiences

My number one piece of advice for visiting the Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve is to become very familiar with the pricing structure before you go. The base price includes admission, but feedings and close encounters cost extra.

The ticket price gets you in the door and access to most of the animal exhibits. Enhanced experiences and extras are categorized as credits or add-on experiences. Credits are used to buy animal food and get up close to certain animals, such as lemurs, sloths, and toucans. Snorkeling, snuba, and bounce house admission are categorized as add-on experiences, which require visitors to pay an extra fee to take part. Credits versus add-ons can be a little confusing, so I’ll break it down. 

The credits are $10 per 100 credits. Most activities cost between 60 and 120 credits per person, although there are a handful that are more. Turtle and fish food are 30 credits per small cup. Credits can also be used for snow cones, balloon animals, glitter tattoos, and a myriad of other things designed to grab a child’s attention.

You can purchase credits at the ticket window or at a white self-service kiosk scattered around the venue. They then put these on your admission card, which is scanned prior to entering any activity that uses credits. The scanner will display how many credits you have. Note, you can use credits on future visits for up to one year from purchase.

It’s possible to enjoy the Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve without purchasing extras, although some expectation management will probably need to happen. Kids seeing other kids petting lemurs and riding ponies are naturally going to want to do the same thing, so if you’re firm on not paying extra, I recommend prepping the kids before you go. If you’re watching your budget, I suggest picking one or two things you really want to do and factoring that into the cost of the outing.

You can add snorkel and snuba experiences and bounce house admission to your ticket. Snorkeling is $49.95 and snuba is $69.95. Participants must be at least six and a paid adult must accompany kids under 12. Bathing suits are required, and participants must be able to swim. The masks are included, but a wetsuit can be rented for an additional $9. The in-water experience lasts 20 minutes.

The bounce house in the arcade is $8.95 for kids 12 and under. The arcade is free to enter, but the games use credits. This is a popular spot for birthday parties and school groups to hang out and the area may get crowded.

What does a standard ticket give you access to?

It’s free to see most of the animals — there are a couple behind closed doors, but you can view all. With a standard ticket, you can also pet many of the animals.

Pony rides cost extra, but it’s free to enter the pony pen and engage with them. The stingrays won’t be super interested in you if you’re not offering food, but you can put your hands in the water and touch them — no credits required.

And while it costs extra (60 credits) to see a toucan up close, there are plenty of other large birds you can see in the indoor area, including a blue macaw who might want to chat with you. 

How much time does it take to explore the Houston Interactive Aquarium?

There are four main areas at the Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve.

The aquarium houses small sharks, rays, otters, and several tanks full of colorful and interesting fish. There’s a large room that houses reptiles, birds, and small mammals, such as rabbits, a sloth named Peaches, and the immensely popular lemurs. The outdoor area houses a selection of mammals, such as donkeys, warthogs, ponies, emus, giraffes, and more. There’s also a separate walk-through aviary where you can check out various species of birds.

It’s very easy to see everything on a single visit. If you don’t purchase credits or book add-on activities, an hour and a half to two hours is plenty of time to explore. On our most recent visit, my kids and I spent three and a half hours, and that included four animal encounters we had to wait in line for. We left no stone unturned and saw everything.

The most popular habitats are the lemurs, the aviaries, and the petting zoo. You’ll need some expectation management if you opt to do the lemur experience because it isn’t exactly like the pictures. Both the website and the video playing outside the habitat show a more robust level of human-lemur contact than what actually happens. Guests are allowed to pet the lemurs perched on a post under the close supervision of a zookeeper. The interaction only lasts about five minutes.

If you want to feed the birds who live in one of two onsite aviary rooms, go as early in the day as possible. A palm full of bird seed is less appealing to a bird when they’ve been snacking all day long. Guests that get in there early have the best chance at hungry birds and hungry birds are interactive birds. Clothing and hair are subject to random bird droppings — expect to get messy. 

Potential downsides are a lack of labeling on some habitats in the aquarium and reptile areas and queues that feel chaotic. Although not all the enclosures have labels to clue visitors on what’s living inside, there are QR codes on some of the habitats that pull up TikTok videos of the animal in different settings.

The animal encounter can only handle a few people at a time and there’s no dedicated spot to get in line. The area between the lemur habitat and aviary (two of the most consistently popular experiences) is a high-traffic area and it gets confusing to figure out where the line is.

Where to start with a visit to the Houston Interactive Aquarium

The natural path after you scan your card at the entry will lead you into the two aquarium galleries. After you exit the second and largest section of the aquarium, you’ll see a three-way sign pointing you to the other parts of the park and you can make your decision from there.

There are maps scattered around that show the location of the various animal habitats so you can make your decision on what to do first based on what you’re most interested in seeing. It’s also easy to do a quick walkthrough to determine how you want to spend your time. 

There’s no wrong way to explore and no specific order you need to get the most out of this activity. The weather may dictate the timing of exploring the outdoor portions versus indoor portions. It might make sense to explore the outdoor areas early in the day when it’s hot outside and save the cooler indoor exhibits for later in the day. 

While a trip to the Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve is full of opportunities for animal education, the wow factor is the more intimate interactions than what’s typical of most zoos and aquariums.

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Houston Interactive Aquarium and Animal Preserve - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Houston Field Trips

The FieldTripDirectory.com is a resource for field trips for students, camp groups, homeschool groups and scout troops for day field trips, overnight field trips and youth retreats. Learn about Texas’s museums, zoos and aquariums, botanic gardens, nature centers, historic sites, amusement parks, recreation, performing arts and more in Metro Houston. CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below to learn about these types of field trips.

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Galveston Railroad Museum

The historic Galveston Railroad Museum is a living history museum that offers interactive activities for all ages. Step inside trains and experience sensory tours. Curriculum materials are available.

Houston Ballet

The Houston Ballet teaches school groups about ballet through its matinee performances, dance classes, studio performances, and outreach programs. Also family friendly performances.

Houston Symphony

The Houston Symphony educates students through student concerts customized to early childhood, elementary, middle school, and high school-level learners. Also family friendly performances.

iT’Z Family Food and Fun

iT’Z Family Food and Fun is the family value indoor fun destination, with locations in Euless and Houston. Arcade, bowling, rock climbing, laser tag, bumper cars and more! Attractions vary by location.

PINSTRIPES HOUSTON

Dine, Play, Celebrate! The best field trips happen at Pinstripes, an esteemed dining and entertainment destination that offers a kids-friendly Italian-American menu and a modern spin on bocce and bowling.

American Cowboy Museum

The American Cowboy Museum preserves and interprets the art, history, and culture of the contributions of African Americans, Hispanic, Native Americans, and Women to the development of the American West.

Children's Museum of Houston

At the Children’s Museum of Houston experience new worlds and make new discoveries about science, the environment, culture, math, and the arts through 14 continuously-changing exhibitions, innovative workshops, and exciting activities.

Downtown Aquarium - Houston

Downtown Aquarium features touch pools, shark tanks, games, rides, and interactive exhibits. Groups can go behind-the-scenes to see how exhibits are maintained and learn about aquarium careers.

Holocaust Museum Houston

The Holocaust Museum Houston educates about the dangers of prejudice and hatred in society. The museum’s exhibit, called “Bearing Witness: A Community Remembers”, focuses on the stories of Holocaust survivors living in the Houston metropolitan area.

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

Reconnect with nature at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center’s 155-acre sanctuary. Programs allow visitors to explore plants, logs, pond life, and the interactions between different parts of the environment.

Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS)

The Houston Museum of Nature Sciences has 3 floors which consists of the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center and a fascinating variety of permanent science exhibit areas.

Houston Museum-African American Culture

The Houston Museum-African American Culture explores the culture of Africans and African-Americans in Houston, the state of Texas, the southwest and the African Diaspora.

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Overnight field trips include trips to NYC, trips to Boston, trips to Washington, DC, trips to Chicago, trips to Atlanta, and other historic cities throughout the US. Retreats are available for environmental education, team building, and recreation. We created field trip lesson plans to help teachers, scout leaders, camp counselors, and homeschool parents provide an enriching experience for their groups. We know funds for class trips are limited, so we’ve included grants for field trips that cover admission, transportation, and more. It’s important that students and youth explore new environments, learn about other cultures, and develop an understanding of inclusivity as part of the educational process. People learn in different ways—through hearing, seeing, touching, talking, or doing. Class trips can provide a multi-dimensional learning experience. FieldTripDirectory.com can help you find the right trip for your group. A world of experiences is just a click away at FieldTripDirectory.com.

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A Land & Sea Adventure!

You're invited to experience the ultimate land & sea adventure! Touch, feed, and interact with exotic animals from five continents!

DAILY ADMISSION PASSPORT

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

FIELD TRIPS

Meet our animal friends.

Read about the animals that call SeaQuest home.

SeaQuest In The News

Stay up to date with the latest SeaQuest news!

Community Initiatives

Learn about our community efforts & initiatives.

OUR VIRTUAL FIELD TRIPS ARE A GREAT WAY TO LEARN FROM A DISTANCE!

Come Sea for Yourself!

Are you ready for an exciting journey around the planet.

TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM VISITOR INFORMATION

Aquarium hours, our hours are subject to change. make sure you check our hours before you arrive to ensure a smooth visit, new h-e-b splash park, open weekends only (saturday and sunday), visitor map & directions, map out your visit so you don’t miss anything, presentation schedule, wildlife presentations are included with your admission and take place throughout the day. plan your day around these presentations, discounts and deals, the texas state aquarium offers several discount options for guests., accessibility.

At the Texas State Aquarium, we believe that people of all abilities should be able to enjoy the experiences offered at the Aquarium - from viewing animals to watching presentations.

Become a member to enjoy free admission, free parking, discounts at shopping & dining locations... and more! It pays for itself in just two visits.

Stay accommodations, the texas state aquarium partners with several hotels and extended stay rentals to accommodate your visit., still have questions visit our faq's page for answers, javascript is disabled.

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Downtown Aquarium – Houston, TX

Other aquarium locations ».

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Fun & Learning: School Programs

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Bring Your School to the Aquarium

Hook your students with our fun programs at the Downtown Aquarium. We are excited to offer your students the following classroom program topics to help support the TEKS in your classroom. These programs are 30-45 minutes long. Book your school trip today – call 713-315-5112 or email [email protected] .

• Download School Registration Form
• View the School Program Guide
• Field Trip Frequently Asked Questions

Classroom Programs

The Education Team at the Downtown Aquarium has teamed up with OCEARCH to create TEKS-aligned, STEM based lesson plans for grades K-12. Learn about sharks through fun activities and experiments while using the Global Shark Tracker to learn alongside some of the field’s brightest scientists. This curriculum is available for free download at www.ocearch.org/education .

Move & Groove! - Preschool

Our youngest animal lovers will learn how animals move around their habitats; such as fish, snakes, and birds. This fun program includes songs, dance, and even live animals! Science TEKS: 2A, 2B, 10A, 10B Music TEKS: 2A Theater TEKS: 1C, 1D, 2B, 2D

Spectacular Story Time – Preschool

Relax and enjoy an animal-related story read by one of our animated Educators. Program includes a craft and live animal encounter!

Something's Fishy – Grades K-2

Mouth here, eyes there, fins, fins everywhere! In this program, students differentiate between living and non-living things, learn the basic anatomy of a fish, play fun games, and more! Language Arts TEKS: Grade K – 1F Science TEKS: Grade K – 2A, 2B, 9A, 9B, 10B; Grade 1 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 9A, 9B, 10A; Grade 2 – 1A, 2A, 9A, 9C, 10A

Coral Communities – Grades 1-6

Coral reefs are one of the most diverse habitats on the planet! In this program, students learn all about coral and the amazing sea creatures that rely on it for survival. Science TEKS: Grade 1 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 9B, 9C, 10A; Grade 2 – 1A, 2A, 4D, 9A, 9C, 10A; Grade 3 – 1A, 9A, 10A; Grade 4 – 1A, 9A, 9B, 10A; Grade 5 – 1A, 9A, 9B, 9C, 10A

Rockin' the Rainforest – Grades 1-6

The Downtown Aquarium is home to more than just fish! We have an entire exhibit dedicated to rainforests. Students learn all about the layers of a rainforest, meet some of the animals that live there, and discover their unique adaptations. Social Studies TEKS: Grade 1 – 6A; Grade 2 – 6A; Grade 3 – 4A Science TEKS: Grade 1 – 1A, 1C, 2A, 6C, 10A; Grade 2 – 1A, 1C, 2A, 2E, 2F, 3A, 9A, 9B, 10A; Grade 3 – 1A, 1B, 9A, 9B, 10A; Grade 4 – 1A, 2A, 9A, 10A; Grade 5 – 1A, 1B, 9A, 9C, 10A; Grade 6 – 1A, 1B, 2A, 12E, 12F

Crazy About Carnivores – Grades 1-6

Sink your teeth into this program about the Downtown Aquarium’s carnivore collection! Students learn the characteristics that differentiate carnivores from other types of animals and come face-to-face with real live carnivores! Science TEKS: Grade 1 – 1A, 2A, 9C, 10A; Grade 2 – 1A, 2A, 2E, 2F, 3A, 9A, 10A; Grade 3 – 1A, 2A, 10A; Grade 4 – 1A, 9A, 10A; Grade 5 – 1A, 9A, 10A; Grade 6 – 1A, 2A, 2D, 12E

African Animals – Grades 1-6

Our knowledgeable educators will be your safari guides and teach you all about African animals and habitats. This program includes fun games and live animal encounters! Social Studies TEKS: Grade 1 – 6A; Grade 2 – 6A; Grade 3 – 4A Science TEKS: Grade 1 – 1A, 2A, 10A; Grade 2 – 1A, 2A, 2E, 2F, 9A, 9B, 10A; Grade 3 – 1A, 9A, 9C, 10A; Grade 4 – 1A, 10A; Grade 5 – 1A, 9A, 10A; Grade 6 – 1A, 2A, 12E, 12F

Radical Reptiles – Grades 1-6

There are more than 10,000 species of reptiles in the world and scientists discover almost 100 more every year! Reptiles are found in rainforests, deserts, and even your own backyard. In this program, students learn about the different types of reptiles and meet live reptiles up close! Science TEKS: Grade 1 – 1A, 2A, 10A; Grade 2 – 1A, 2A, 2F, 9A, 9B, 10A; Grade 3 – 1A, 9A, 10A; Grade 4 – 1A, 10A; Grade 5 – 1A, 9A, 10A; Grade 6 – 1A, 2A, 12E

If the Beak Fits – Grades 1-6

Not all beaks are the same, just like not all birds are the same! Students learn how different species of birds use their beaks for survival with a hands-on experiment. Science TEKS: Grade 1 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 2E, 4A, 10A; Grade 2 – 1A, 2A, 2C, 2E, 2F, 4A, 9A, 10A; Grade 3 – 1A, 2A, 2F, 4A, 10A, 10B; Grade 4 – 1A, 2A, 2F, 3A, 4A, 10A, 10B; Grade 5 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2F, 9A, 10A, 10B; Grade 6 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 2E, 4A, 4B, 12E

Stupendous Sharks – Grades 1-6

There are around 440 known species of sharks; each with amazing adaptations for survival in the ocean. In this program, students learn all about the natural history of sharks, their adaptations, threats to wild sharks, and how we can save them. Science TEKS: Grade 1: 1C, 2A, 10A; Grade 2: 2A, 2F, 9A, 9B, 10A; Grade 3: 9A, 9B, 10A; Grade 4: 10A; Grade 5: 9A, 9C, 10A; Grade 6: 1B, 2A, 12E

If the Beak Fits – Grades 1-6

Not all beaks are the same; just like not all birds are the same! In this program, students learn how different species of birds use their beaks for survival with a hands-on experiment. Science TEKS: Grade 1: 1A, 2A, 2B, 2E, 4A, 10A; Grade 2: 1A, 2A, 2C, 2E, 2F, 4A, 9A, 10A; Grade 3: 1A, 2A, 2F, 4A, 10A, 10B; Grade 4: 1A, 2A, 2F, 3A, 4A, 10A, 10B; Grade 5: 2B, 2C, 2D, 2F, 9A, 10A, 10B; Grade 6: 1A, 2A, 2B, 2E, 4A, 12E

NEW! Web of Life – Grades 1-6

In this program, students learn all about food webs and how energy flows through an ecosystem from producers to consumers to decomposers. Students will work together to create a model of a rainforest food web so they can see how all life is connected. Science TEKS: Grade 1: 2A, 3A, 6A, 9C; Grade 2: 2A, 3B, 9C; Grade 3: 2A, 2C, 2D, 2F, 3A, 9B, 9C; Grade 4: 2A, 2C, 2D, 2F, 9A, 9B; Grade 5: 2C, 2F, 2G, 9B, 9C; Grade 6: 2A, 2B, 2E

NEW! Creatures of the Night – Grades 1-6

Are you a night owl or an early bird? Did you know animals also have preferences for when they are awake? In this program, students learn the differences between diurnal, crepuscular, and nocturnal animals and study the adaptations of nocturnal critters. Includes a live animal encounter! Science TEKS: Grade 1 – 2A, 6A, 9C, 10A; Grade 2 – 2A, 9A, 9B, 9C, 10A; Grade 3 – 2A, 2C, 3A, 9A, 10A; Grade 4 – 2A, 2C, 10A; Grade 5 – 2C, 2G, 8C, 9A, 10A; Grade 6 – 2A, 12E

Training 101 – Grades 1-12

Animal training plays an important role in the care of the animals that call the Downtown Aquarium home. In this program, students learn the basics of animal training, learn why it’s important, play games, and see real animal training in action!

Squidy Anatomy – Grades 1-12

There are roughly 300 species of squid in the world – the largest weighing up to 1,000 pounds! In this program, students learn all about squid and their amazing adaptations with a hands-on dissection led by our knowledgeable Educators. Science TEKS: Grade 1 – 1A, 2A, 10A; Grade 2 – 1A, 2A, 10A; Grade 3 – 1A, 2A, 4B, 10A; Grade 4 – 1A, 2A, 3A, 4A, 4B, 10A; Grade 5 – 1A, 2B, 3A, 4A, 4B, 10A; Grade 6 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 3A, 4A, 4B; Grade 7 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 3A, 4A, 4B, 12A, 13A; Grade 8 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 2E, 3A, 4A Aquatic Science TEKS: HS – 1A, 2E, 2G, 3A, 10A Biology TEKS: HS – 1A, 2E, 3A

Where'd You Get Those Genes? – Grades 6-8

Genes – the building blocks of life. Discover how these tiny molecules can have such a huge impact on living organisms of all shapes and sizes. Experience hands-on how small changes here and there can affect an organism's ability to survive. Science TEKS: Grade 6 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2E, 3A, 3B, 12A; Grade 7 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2E, 3A, 3B, 11B, 11C, 14A, 14B, 14C; Grade 8 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2E, 3A, 3B

Physics of Flight – Grades 6-8

Fascinated by flying birds? Learn how birds fly by doing experiments and meet some of our flying feathered friends. Science TEKS: Grade 6 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 2E, 4A, 8B; Grade 7 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 2E, 4A, 7C, 12A; Grade 8 – 1A, 2A, 2B, 2E, 4A, 6A

Fishy Anatomy – Grades 6-8

Designed for older science students, this dissection teaches lab safety, dissection terminology, and both external and internal anatomy features of fish. Students will learn how different fins help fish swim, how fish ‘breathe’ underwater, and how to tell males from females! Science TEKS: Grade 6 – 1A, 2C, 4A, 4B; Grade 7 – 1A, 2A, 2C, 4A, 4B, 12A; Grade 8 – 1A, 2A, 2C, 4A, 4B

Life in the Gulf of Mexico – Grades 6-8

The Gulf of Mexico has a variety of habitats, from shallow coastal areas and coral reefs to deep underwater areas that are home to incredibly diverse species of animals. In this program, students play a life-size board game that takes them on a journey to learn all about life in the Gulf of Mexico. Science TEKS: Grade 6 – 1A, 1B, 3A, 3B, 12E, 12F; Grade 7 – 1A, 1B, 2A, 3A, 3B, 5C, 10A, 10B; Grade 8 – 1A, 1B, 2A, 3A, 3B, 11A, 11B, 11D

View information about our other programs that may be a good fit for your class:

• Marine Biologist for a Day
• Zoologist for a Day

Outreach Programs

No busses, not enough chaperones? No problem, we'll come to you! Downtown Aquarium will provide lessons covering ocean, aquatic and other wild topics in your classroom. We provide the materials and the animal experts, you provide the students. Note: Some classroom programs involve live animals so anything – including lots of fun – can happen! Book your Outreach Program today! 713-315-5112

Built for Survival Bird Show

If your students love wildlife, then they will love our Built for Survival Animal Show! This 30-minute auditorium–style presentation features five of our Ambassador Animals – animals who help us teach about wildlife, habitats, and conservation. Students will learn about animal adaptations and how they help animals survive in the wild!

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Certain activities provided by this website may be covered by U.S. Patent No. 5,930,474

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THE CROCODILE CAPITAL OF TEXAS

Houston's Largest Reptile Show Learn More

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• Interested in (Public tour, special event, birthday party, educational…)

Welcome to Crocodile Encounter: The nations crocodile capital!

You have found us! One of Houston's best kept secrets offers you and your family a great way to experience nature up close and personal. Visit our wildlife facility or experience one of our traveling educational shows and enter a world you never knew existed! Now scheduling field trips and assemblies for the 2023-24 school year!

PUBLIC TOUR TIMES

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PUBLIC TOUR RATES

We offer adult and child rates.

Click here for our Daily Rates.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Croctoberfest !

Crocs After Dark !

Zookeeper Camp !

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Crocodile Encounter is one of Houston's best kept secrets offer you and your family a great way to experience nature up close and personal.

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Crocodile Encounter Address: 23231 CR 48 Angleton, TX 77515 Telephone: 281.595.2232 E-mail: [email protected]

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Contact Info

Crocodile Encounter Address:  23231 CR 48 Angleton, TX 77515 Telephone:  281.595.2232 E-mail:   [email protected] .

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