Looking for some family fun during your next trip to Denver? The Downtown Aquarium in Denver is just the thing, as it's packed with creative exhibits, unique dining options, and 500 species of fish to discover. This aquarium is unlike any other you've probably visited before since it's an entertainment complex with a public aquarium right at the heart of it.
If you're ready to take the plunge, come discover the mysteries of the deep that await at Denver Downtown Aquarium!
Downtown Aquarium Exhibits You Can't Miss
The Downtown Aquarium has several exciting exhibits offering close encounters with aquatic life from around the globe. Check the directory or grab a map when you walk in to get familiar with all the collections and exhibits. From there, you can explore 12 different exhibits that feature an array of fish and other creatures from the deep.
Start your ocean journey in North America and learn about marine creatures close to home and their importance to our natural world. In the Desert features animals that have adapted to living in some of the Earth's harshest habitats. Make a splash at Sunken Temple, where you'll find creatures that love to make their homes in ancient ruins at the bottom of the sea.
Another exhibit you don't want to miss is Coral Lagoon, a simulation of a barrier reef packed with colorful fish of all kinds. Similarly, Under the Sea explores the shallow water of coral reefs and the variety of fish and animals that live in the caves and crevices of the reefs. There are many other exhibits to check out, so be sure to plan your trip to see them all!
Other Awesome Attractions and Activities
Looking at Downtown Aquarium photos, you'll notice amazing attractions that are exciting for all ages. After marveling at the aquarium's collection of fish and sea creatures, be sure to leave plenty of time to explore everything else to see and do here, too. Here's a list of a few to consider.
Aquatic Carousel
Ready to feel like a kid again? Take a spin on the Aquatic Carousel, which features all kinds of fun animals to ride on. While you'll find the classic painted ponies you've probably seen on many a merry-go-round, this carousel also has graceful dolphins, mythical sea monsters, and more.
The Aquatic Carousel is fun for all ages, but children under 42 inches tall must be accompanied by an adult.
Animal Meet and Greets
Downtown Aquarium is famous for its personal encounters that guests can have with marine life. One thrilling experience is Swim with the Fish, a chance to snorkel with underwater creatures in the city's heart. This program partners with A-1 Scuba & Travel and happens in the aquarium's dive lounge. You'll want to make your reservation beforehand, as this is a hot activity only offered on certain days of the week.
Participants will receive all of the necessary equipment and will be assisted by experts throughout the entire experience. Before your dive, you'll learn about the animals and get some snorkeling tips. Once you submerge yourself, you'll soon be surrounded by hundreds of sea animals, including moray eels, stingrays, cownose rays, and a plethora of tropical fish.
Another way to come face-to-face with marine life without getting wet is by visiting the aquarium's Stingray Reef. Learn about these beautiful creatures that seem to fly through the sea, and then grab a handful of stingray fish food. The rays will come to eat out of your hand, allowing you to gently touch and admire them up close.
Mermaid Show and Meet and Greet
If you've ever wanted to meet a mermaid, this is your chance! Mermaids can be seen swimming with their marine friends in the Under the Sea exhibit, as well as performing during some dinner services in the Aquarium Restaurant. During these performances, visitors of all ages can watch the mermaids magically move through the water as they teach children about the importance of conservation and caring for our planet's oceans.
If you can't watch a scheduled mermaid performance, you can book a private meet-and-greet with the Mystic Mermaids. During these private events, the mermaids will teach you fun facts about the sea and then dive down to the ocean floor for a special pearl. The pearl is yours to take home as a treasured memento.
4D Theater
Chances are that you've seen a 3D movie before. But what about 4D? Denver Downtown Aquarium's theater seats up to 40 guests at a time, making them feel like they are actually inside the film. The comfy seats with armrests are equipped with different effects that sync with the movie, putting you right in the middle of the action. Along with the specialized seating, you'll also receive 3D glasses that help bring the film to life.
Each film is about 15 minutes long, and titles vary depending on the time of year and upcoming holidays. All the movies are kid-friendly, and many feature sea creatures, including some that can be found in the aquarium.
Explore Marine Life Like Never Before With a Denver CityPASS® Ticket
Ready to see all the creatures of the deep for yourself? Pick up a Denver CityPASS® ticket and save time and money at Denver's top things to do such as Denver Downtown Aquarium.
With three different ticket options, you can visit three, four, or five of The Mile High City's top attractions and save up to along the way. The best way to discover Denver is with a CityPASS® ticket, so grab yours today.
Denver Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in Denver, we recommend finding lodging near Denver's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
Booking.comHeader Image Courtesy of Denver Downtown Aquarium