Downtown Aquarium Denver | Denver

The Downtown Aquarium in Denver is a multifaceted entertainment venue combining a large public aquarium with dining, family attractions, and educational experiences. Located near the Platte River in Denver’s Lower Downtown (LoDo) district, it spans approximately 40,000 square feet and houses more than 500 species of aquatic life from freshwater rivers and tropical seas to exotic fish and marine animals.

Aquarium Exhibits and Features

The aquarium’s exhibits are designed to immerse visitors in diverse aquatic environments, showcasing ecosystems from around the world:

Tropical Reef Exhibit: A vibrant display of colorful coral reefs and tropical fish, demonstrating the biodiversity of warm ocean waters. This exhibit simulates coral habitats with various species of clownfish, tangs, angelfish, and sea anemones.

Shipwreck Gallery: Modeled after an underwater shipwreck, this exhibit features a large tank where visitors can observe sharks, rays, and other marine predators. The centerpiece is a 50,000-gallon tank that is visible from the adjacent restaurant, providing diners with dramatic underwater views.

Stingray Reef Touch Tank: A hands-on experience where guests can safely touch and feed southern stingrays, fostering a tactile connection to marine life.

Gulf of Mexico Habitat: This section displays species native to the Gulf, such as alligator gars and groupers, illustrating local ecosystems.

Discovery Bay: Featuring freshwater animals, including river otters and various freshwater fish species, this exhibit educates about river habitats.

Aquatic Adventures: A diverse area with amphibians, reptiles, and tropical fish, giving visitors insight into lesser-known aquatic species.

Shark Cage Experience: For adventurous guests, this premium offering allows participants to enter a submerged cage within the shark tank, providing an exhilarating close encounter with several shark species.

4D Theater: The aquarium operates a 4D theater that screens nature and marine-themed films enhanced with environmental effects such as wind, water sprays, and motion, offering an immersive cinematic experience.

Dining Experience

The Aquarium Restaurant is a standout feature, designed around the 50,000-gallon centerpiece aquarium. The dining room is surrounded by massive viewing windows where diners can watch fish, sharks, and other sea creatures glide by. The menu offers a range of seafood, steaks, and American cuisine, with emphasis on fresh ingredients and quality presentation. The atmosphere combines casual dining with a unique underwater ambiance.

Adjacent to the restaurant is the Dive Lounge, an upscale bar offering specialty cocktails, wines, and craft beers. Happy hour specials and a relaxed vibe make it popular with visitors looking to unwind after exploring the exhibits.

Attractions and Family Activities

The Downtown Aquarium offers several attractions and programs to engage visitors of all ages:

Aquarium Express: A kid-friendly electric train ride that loops through sections of the aquarium and grounds, providing fun and educational commentary.

Aquatic Carousel: A sea-themed carousel featuring marine animals such as seahorses, turtles, and fish as ride options. This attraction is occasionally closed for maintenance but adds to the family appeal when available.

Mystic Mermaids Shows: Periodic live performances featuring performers dressed as mermaids swimming within large tanks. These shows combine entertainment with environmental education about ocean conservation.

Educational Programs: The aquarium offers interactive experiences such as “Marine Biologist for a Day” and “Zoologist for a Day,” where children and adults can participate in behind-the-scenes activities, learning about animal care, biology, and conservation efforts.

Overnight Sleepovers: Unique sleepover events allow families and groups to spend a night inside the aquarium, including guided tours, dinner, and breakfast, offering a memorable immersive experience.

Birthday Parties: The facility offers themed birthday packages with access to exhibits, party rooms, and activities tailored for children’s celebrations.

Visitor Information

Admission: Ticket prices vary by age, with adults generally around $27, seniors slightly discounted, children ages 3-11 around $21, and free admission for children under two.

Hours of Operation: Typically open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 or 9 p.m., with extended hours on weekends and holidays.

Parking: The aquarium provides on-site parking for a fee. Dine-in guests who park after 6 p.m. can have their parking validated.

Accessibility: The facility is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps ensuring ease of movement for all visitors.

Location and Atmosphere

Situated in downtown Denver, the aquarium benefits from proximity to other cultural and entertainment venues. Its riverside location offers views of the Platte River and urban skyline, blending a natural aquatic theme with a modern city setting. The building itself is designed to evoke the feel of an underwater world, with lighting, décor, and soundscapes that enhance the visitor experience.

Summary

The Downtown Aquarium Denver stands out as a versatile venue that offers much more than a traditional aquarium. It combines engaging exhibits showcasing diverse aquatic life with interactive experiences, family-friendly attractions, and quality dining. Whether visiting for a casual day of exploration, a special event, or a family outing, the aquarium delivers a rich educational and entertaining experience that appeals to all ages.