Head to downtown Houston to get up close and personal with the residents of this multi-level aquarium.
With over 2 million litres of underwater habitat and more than 200 different marine creatures, Downtown Aquarium is a great day out for all the family. The aquarium is home to a diverse range of species such as clown fish, octopus and zebra sharks, and includes local sea creatures as well as those from far-flung corners of the world. Detailed information and hands-on exhibits ensure that the aquarium is education and enjoyable.
The aquarium is not just home to sea-dwellers—keep your eyes open for the family of rare white tigers that live here as part of an ongoing conservation effort. The enclosures are home to creatures from both land and sea, and have been designed to look like ancient sites with diverse ecosystems. Take a look at the Sunken Temple enclosure and come face to face with its resident tarantulas, puffer fish and a six-metre python. Walk through the Rainforest enclosure and spot venomous stingrays, red-bellied piranhas, snakes, frogs and tropical birds.
Don’t miss a ride on the Shark Voyage—a toy train ride that takes you through a tunnel and underneath a tank filled with white tip, sand tiger and zebra sharks.
Head out to the outdoor entertainment area for a ride on a Ferris wheel or carousel, or try your hand at one of the traditional funfair-style games. You can pay for rides individually, or all-day Adventure passes are available.
Give yourself two or three hours to see everything the aquarium has to offer, and if you want to stay a little longer you can head to the indoor restaurant. The restaurant serves up great seafood and features a small tropical fish aquarium too. There are also several different fast-food chains located just outside the aquarium.
Downtown Aquarium is open every day and located in the northern part of downtown Houston. Free parking is available on-site.
