Downtown Aquarium, located in the heart of Houston, TX, is a spectacular entertainment and dining complex that offers visitors an unforgettable aquatic experience. With a 500,000-gallon aquatic wonderland, exhilarating amusement rides, and a delectable dining experience, Downtown Aquarium is a must-visit destination for families, tourists, and marine life enthusiasts alike.
Opened in 2003, Downtown Aquarium is situated on a six-acre site that was once home to Houston's Central Waterworks Building and Fire Station No. 1. The transformation of the area into a world-class aquarium and entertainment complex was led by Landry's Inc., a company renowned for its innovative dining and entertainment concepts. Today, Downtown Aquarium attracts millions of visitors every year, making it one of Houston's most popular attractions.
Downtown Aquarium features a variety of themed exhibits and attractions that showcase the diverse marine life found in oceans, rivers, and lakes around the world. Some of the key highlights include:
Aquarium Adventure: Dive into the underwater world as you explore a series of immersive exhibits that house over 200 species of aquatic animals. Discover colorful coral reefs, mysterious shipwrecks, and fascinating ecosystems such as the Louisiana Swamp, Rainforest, and Sunken Temple.
Shark Voyage: Embark on an exhilarating train ride through the heart of the aquarium's 200,000-gallon shark tank. Surrounded by glass tunnels, visitors can observe various species of sharks, rays, and other marine life up close while learning about their habitats and behaviors.
Stingray Reef: Get hands-on at Stingray Reef, where you can touch and feed beautiful cownose stingrays as they glide gracefully through the water. This interactive exhibit offers a unique opportunity to connect with these fascinating creatures and learn about their biology and conservation.
Amusement Rides: Downtown Aquarium is also home to several exciting amusement rides, including the Diving Bell Ferris Wheel, which offers stunning views of the Houston skyline, and the Aquatic Carousel, featuring hand-painted sea creatures for an enchanting ride.
Dining Experience: After exploring the wonders of the aquatic world, visitors can dine at the on-site restaurant, which boasts a massive floor-to-ceiling aquarium filled with colorful fish. The menu offers a wide range of delicious seafood dishes, steaks, and other culinary delights that cater to all tastes.
Downtown Aquarium is committed to protecting marine life and their habitats through various conservation initiatives and partnerships. The aquarium participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan for several endangered species and supports various research and conservation projects aimed at preserving marine ecosystems and raising public awareness about environmental issues.
Downtown Aquarium is open year-round, with extended hours during peak seasons and holidays. Admission fees vary depending on the attractions you wish to visit, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and children. All-Day Adventure Passes are also available for those who want to enjoy unlimited access to the aquarium exhibits and amusement rides.
Whether you're a marine life enthusiast, a curious tourist, or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, Downtown Aquarium offers an underwater adventure that's sure to make a splash. With its diverse array of exhibits, thrilling attractions, and commitment to conservation, Downtown Aquarium is truly an aquatic wonderland in the heart of Houston.