The Downtown Aquarium in Houston is a dynamic and immersive experience that combines marine life exhibits, interactive attractions, dining, and entertainment into one fantastic destination. Located in the heart of downtown Houston, this 500,000-gallon aquatic wonderland is home to over 300 species of aquatic animals from all over the world. The aquarium also features an amusement park, a restaurant with underwater views, and a variety of family-friendly attractions that make it an all-in-one destination for both locals and tourists.
Whether you’re interested in exploring underwater ecosystems, encountering exotic animals, or enjoying a thrilling ride on the Aquarium Adventure Exhibit, the Downtown Aquarium offers something for everyone. It’s a must-visit attraction for families, couples, and anyone looking to discover the wonders of the aquatic world.
History and Culture
The Creation of Downtown Aquarium
The Downtown Aquarium opened in 2003, transforming two historic landmarks—the Central Waterworks Building and Fire Station No. 1—into a modern aquarium and entertainment complex. Operated by Landry’s, Inc., the aquarium was designed to offer a blend of education, conservation, and fun. Its exhibits are carefully curated to highlight aquatic ecosystems from around the world, from the rainforests of South America to the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Cultural Significance
Beyond being an entertainment hub, the Downtown Aquarium plays an essential role in conservation and education. The aquarium is committed to raising awareness about the importance of protecting marine environments and the diverse species that inhabit them. Through interactive exhibits, special programs, and outreach efforts, the aquarium helps visitors understand the critical connection between human activity and the health of the world’s oceans and waterways.
Top Attractions
The Downtown Aquarium features a wide range of exhibits, attractions, and interactive experiences. Here are some of the must-see highlights:
1. Aquarium Adventure Exhibit
- What to Expect: The Aquarium Adventure Exhibit is the centerpiece of the Downtown Aquarium, featuring more than 300 species of aquatic animals in themed habitats. Visitors can explore ecosystems from around the world, including:
- Louisiana Swamp: Home to alligators, snapping turtles, and bullfrogs.
- Shipwreck: Featuring tropical fish, eels, and octopuses.
- Rainforest: A lush environment with piranhas, poison dart frogs, and birds.
- Sunken Temple: Housing lionfish, rays, and moray eels.
- Tip: Don’t miss the Shark Voyage, a highlight of the exhibit where visitors board a train that takes them through a glass tunnel surrounded by sharks.
2. Shark Voyage
- What to Expect: The Shark Voyage is an exciting train ride that takes visitors on a journey through a tunnel surrounded by a 200,000-gallon tank filled with several species of sharks, including sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, and zebra sharks. It’s an up-close experience that lets you view these majestic creatures from all angles.
- Tip: Sit on the edge of the train for the best views of the sharks swimming overhead.
3. Stingray Reef
- What to Expect: At Stingray Reef, visitors have the unique opportunity to touch and feed live stingrays in a shallow pool. These gentle creatures glide through the water, allowing guests to interact with them in a safe, supervised environment.
- Tip: Be sure to purchase a small cup of food to feed the stingrays—they’ll swim right up to your hand for a snack!
4. Amusement Park Rides
- What to Expect: In addition to the aquarium exhibits, the Downtown Aquarium features a small amusement park with rides for all ages, including:
- Aquarium Ferris Wheel: Offering scenic views of downtown Houston.
- Frog Hopper: A kid-friendly ride with gentle drops.
- Aquatic Carousel: A beautifully crafted carousel featuring marine animals.
- Diving Bell Ferris Wheel: A thrilling ride that simulates an underwater diving experience.
- Tip: Purchase a combo ticket for both the aquarium exhibits and unlimited access to the rides for the best value.
5. White Tigers at Maharaja’s Temple
- What to Expect: The Downtown Aquarium is home to several white tigers, housed in the Maharaja’s Temple exhibit. These rare and beautiful creatures are part of the aquarium’s commitment to wildlife conservation. The exhibit is designed to mimic a jungle temple, giving visitors a chance to see the tigers in a naturalistic setting.
- Tip: Visit during feeding times for an up-close look at the tigers’ behavior.
6. Touch Tanks
- What to Expect: Throughout the aquarium, interactive touch tanks allow visitors to get hands-on with a variety of marine life, including starfish, sea urchins, and small crabs. Educators are on hand to answer questions and provide information about the animals.
- Tip: Touch the animals gently with one or two fingers, as instructed by the staff, to avoid harming them.
Dining
The Downtown Aquarium Restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience, with large windows providing underwater views of the aquarium’s central tank, where fish, rays, and other marine life swim by as you eat.
Downtown Aquarium Restaurant
- Cuisine: The menu at the Downtown Aquarium Restaurant features a wide range of seafood, steaks, burgers, and kid-friendly options. The restaurant is known for its signature seafood dishes, including fried shrimp, grilled salmon, and fish tacos.
- Location: Located inside the aquarium complex, with seating next to the aquarium tanks.
- Signature Dish: Seafood platter, featuring shrimp, fish, and scallops.
- Tip: Request a table near the aquarium windows for the best views of the marine life.
Nearby Dining Options
- Hearsay Market Square
- Cuisine: Located nearby in downtown Houston, Hearsay Market Square offers modern American cuisine with a focus on small plates, steaks, and craft cocktails.
- Location: 218 Travis St, Houston, TX 77002
- Tip: Ideal for a meal before or after visiting the aquarium, offering a more upscale dining experience.
Shopping
The Aquarium Gift Shop offers a wide variety of souvenirs, toys, and educational materials related to marine life and conservation.
Aquarium Gift Shop
- What to Expect: The gift shop offers plush animals, aquarium-themed toys, educational books, and unique souvenirs like T-shirts and mugs. It’s the perfect place to pick up a memento from your visit or a gift for a marine life enthusiast.
- Tip: Look for eco-friendly products that support the aquarium’s conservation efforts, such as reusable water bottles and bags made from recycled materials.
Accommodations
There are several accommodation options near the Downtown Aquarium, ranging from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly choices, many of which are located within walking distance of the aquarium and other downtown attractions.
Luxury Hotels
- The Lancaster Hotel
- Location: 701 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002
- Why Stay Here: Located in the heart of downtown Houston, The Lancaster Hotel offers luxury accommodations with a historic charm. It’s just a short walk from the aquarium, making it an ideal choice for families or couples looking for an upscale experience.
- Tip: Enjoy the hotel’s complimentary breakfast before heading out to explore the city.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Houston Downtown
- Location: 1515 Dallas St, Houston, TX 77010
- Why Stay Here: This all-suite hotel is great for families, offering spacious rooms and free breakfast. It’s located just a few minutes from the Downtown Aquarium and other attractions like Discovery Green.
- Tip: Take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary evening reception with snacks and drinks.
Budget-Friendly Hotels
- Club Quarters Hotel
- Location: 720 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77002
- Why Stay Here: A budget-friendly option located in downtown Houston, Club Quarters offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to the aquarium, restaurants, and other downtown attractions.
- Tip: Use the hotel’s complimentary bike rental to explore nearby attractions.
Activities and Tours
In addition to exploring the aquarium exhibits and attractions, visitors can participate in a variety of interactive programs and special experiences.
Aquarium Behind-the-Scenes Tours
- What to Expect: The Behind-the-Scenes Tour offers visitors an exclusive look at how the aquarium operates, including the care and feeding of the animals, water filtration systems, and veterinary care. Guests can also meet some of the animals up close and learn about the aquarium’s conservation efforts.
- Tip: Book the tour in advance, as space is limited and these tours tend to fill up quickly.
Birthday Parties and Private Events
- What to Expect: The aquarium offers birthday party packages that include private party rooms, aquarium tours, and access to the amusement rides. It’s a fun and educational way to celebrate a special occasion.
- Tip: Choose a theme for the birthday party, such as pirates or marine explorers, to make the event even more memorable.
Events
The Downtown Aquarium hosts a variety of seasonal events and programs that make visiting the aquarium an even more magical experience.
Shark Week
- What to Expect: During Shark Week, the aquarium offers special programming focused on sharks, including educational talks, shark feeding demonstrations, and shark-themed activities for kids.
- When: Annually, typically in July.
- Tip: Don’t miss the Shark Week merchandise and special exhibits during this time.
Scary Halloween Adventure
- What to Expect: During Halloween, the Downtown Aquarium transforms into a spooky, family-friendly destination with themed decorations, trick-or-treating, and costume contests. The aquarium’s exhibits get a Halloween twist, and there are special activities for kids.
- When: October.
- Tip: Dress up in costume and arrive early to take part in all the Halloween activities.
Practical Information
Getting There
- Address: 410 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002
- Parking: The Downtown Aquarium has its own parking lot with hourly and daily rates. Parking is available on-site, and valet services are offered on weekends and special occasions.
- Public Transit: The aquarium is easily accessible via Houston METRO, with several bus routes stopping nearby. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also convenient options.
Best Time to Visit
The aquarium is open year-round, but weekdays and early mornings tend to be less crowded. Special events, such as Shark Week and Halloween celebrations, can attract larger crowds, so plan ahead if visiting during these times.
Accessibility
The Downtown Aquarium is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms throughout the facility. Wheelchair rentals are available at the guest services desk, and the aquarium’s staff is happy to assist visitors with special needs.
Booking Information
Tickets for the Downtown Aquarium can be purchased online or at the box office. Combo tickets that include access to both the aquarium exhibits and the amusement park rides are available.
- General Admission: Adults: $23.99 | Children (under 42”): $21.99 | Seniors: $22.99
- Website: www.aquariumrestaurants.com/downtownaquariumhouston
- Phone: +1 713-223-3474
Final Thoughts
The Downtown Aquarium in Houston offers a fun-filled and educational experience for visitors of all ages. With its impressive marine exhibits, thrilling rides, interactive touch tanks, and unique dining options, the aquarium is more than just a place to view aquatic life—it’s a destination for adventure and discovery. Whether you’re taking a deep dive into the Shark Voyage, exploring the Louisiana Swamp, or enjoying a meal surrounded by marine life, the Downtown Aquarium is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
