Get up close with marine and exotic animals at Aquarium Restaurant in Kemah, Texas. Enjoy an interactive, private adventure perfect for families and nature lovers visiting the Gulf Coast.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity involves mostly standing and light walking.
Wildlife
History
Kemah has evolved from a small fishing village into a popular boardwalk town known for its maritime heritage and vibrant waterfront scene.
Conservation
The Aquarium Restaurant participates in local conservation efforts to protect marine life and educates guests on sustainable wildlife practices.
Aquarium Restaurant, Kemah, TX
Get up close with marine and exotic animals at Aquarium Restaurant in Kemah, Texas. Enjoy an interactive, private adventure perfect for families and nature lovers visiting the Gulf Coast.
Aquarium Restaurant, Kemah, Texas, is a combined dining and aquarium attraction located on the Kemah Boardwalk. It operates a large 38,000-gallon Dining tank where guests can dine surrounded by marine life, and runs guided Aquarium Exhibit Tours that explore interactive habitats including a rainforest exhibit and the Stingray Reef. The venue offers a range of experiences for families, educators, and groups: Specialty Dives deliver personalized messages from a scuba diver in the dining tank for proposals and anniversaries; Bottom of the Sea Birthdays provide packaged children's parties with Stingray Reef tickets, kid meals, and mascot visits; and Marine Biologist for a Day gives hands-on educational activities such as squid dissection and stingray feeding.
For schools and groups, Aquarium Restaurant provides TEKS-aligned Field Trips Educational Programs available in tax-exempt and non-tax-exempt versions, accommodating groups from 10 to 180 and highlighting more than 500 animal species in curriculum-focused sessions. Upgrades include Animal Meet and Greets for reptiles and invertebrates and enhanced guided tours for deeper encounters. Teacher Appreciation Day events bring educators together for food, live music, and exhibit access.
The operation emphasizes experienced educators, behind-the-scenes access, and interactive learning with ambassador animals, making it a trusted choice for family outings and school programs. Reservation options and packaged experiences allow visitors to customize visits for celebrations, education, or immersive marine encounters. On-site staff follow safety protocols for animal care and guest interactions, and many experiences include keepsake opportunities and educator-led commentary to maximize learning and memorable photo moments for families and repeat visitors.
Tours Offered
11 experiences
Guided tours, dives, parties, and programs
Dining Tank
38,000 gal
Large immersive Dining tank
Animal Species
500+ animals
Wide variety across exhibits
Group Size
10–180
Field trips and group bookings
Book Specialty Dives, Guided Tours, Birthdays, or Field Trips for memorable marine encounters and educational programs.
Book in Advance
Secure your spot early as private meet and greets can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Bring Comfortable Shoes
You’ll be standing and walking around the facility, so wear shoes suitable for light walking.
Follow Animal Interaction Guidelines
Always listen to staff instructions to ensure safe and respectful interactions with the animals.
Check Weather Conditions
Although mostly indoors, dress for the warm and humid Gulf Coast climate to stay comfortable.
Lightweight Comfortable Shoes
Helps you stay comfortable during the walking and standing portions of the meet and greet.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important, especially during the warmer summer months.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture memorable moments with the animals and the scenic Kemah Boardwalk surroundings.
Light Jacket
Comfortable layering option for cooler fall evenings or indoor AC settings.
fall