Downtown Aquarium
4.3(23K)google
3.2(1.1K)yelp
FamilyIndoorInteractiveKidsWildlife
Overview
Offering a spectacular underwater journey, the Downtown Aquarium in Denver features a massive six-acre entertainment complex that houses more than one million gallons of aquatic exhibits. Visitors can marvel at diverse marine ecosystems, ranging from local desert rivers to vibrant coral reefs teeming with sharks, stingrays, and exotic sea turtles. Beyond the incredible viewing glass, the facility features a mystical interactive touch pool, an adventurous mystic mermaid show, and a full-service restaurant where guests dine while surrounded by a colossal floor-to-ceiling aquarium tank.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration2-3 hours
Best TimeWeekday mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid peak family crowds. Booking a dinner table at the Aquarium Restaurant offers a unique experience of dining alongside a massive fish tank.
Getting ThereLocated at 700 Water St, drivers can take I-25 to exit 211, where a large paid parking lot is available. By public transit, take the light rail to Union Station and enjoy a 15-20 minute walk or bike ride through the river park.
Travel Tips
- Low Sensory & Off-Peak Visiting: Weekends and holidays are heavily crowded with families. Guests seeking a quieter environment should monitor the calendar for 'Low Sensory Morning' events on select Sundays. Note that last admission is strictly 1 hour prior to closing.
- Aquarium Restaurant Reservation: Dining at the famous 150,000-gallon marine tank restaurant does not require an aquarium exhibition ticket, but table reservations are highly recommended. Walk-ins rarely secure prime seating directly flush against the glass.
- Hidden Fees & Combo Tickets: The basic admission ticket covers only the core exhibit trails. Optional activities like the 4D Theater and Stingray Reef feeding require supplemental fees. Consider purchasing a 'Value Pass' or utilizing a Denver CityPASS to save on bundle costs.
Reviews
Positive
- More than just marine life, white tigers are featured, popular mermaid shows, great for families.
- Well-equipped, high cleanliness.
Heads up
- Extra fees for most attractions besides admission, low value for money.
- Surrounding environment is complex, be careful walking at night.