easy
45 minutes
Suitable for all ages; requires ability to stand and move around for short periods.
Join Denver Aquarium's "Sensational Sharks" program for an engaging 45-minute dive into shark senses and species. A perfect educational adventure for home-schoolers!
For PreK-2nd grade students ages 3 - 7 years old and their adult chaperone
Dive into an unforgettable adventure at the Downtown Aquarium's "Sharks are Sensational!" program. Engage with interactive activities that explore shark senses, match species, and discover their diets. Perfect for home-school families, this 45-minute class combines fun with educational standards, making it a unique learning experience amidst fascinating exhibits.
*Adult Chaperone (19+):$19.00-book a self-guided tour ticket for aquarium admission. 1 adult per family can attend the classroom program with their child. No strollers can be brought into the classroom.
Student (Ages 3-7):$3.00 for the class +$6.50 self-guided tour ticket aquarium admission
*Please Note: Due to the popularity of classroom programs, there is a registration maximum of 2 programs per child. Please make sure to book a self-guided tour ticket for all people in your party for admission to the aquarium.
45 minutes
The Downtown Aquarium welcomes home school students and families! Explore the Aquarium exhibits with your family for a discounted rate, participate in an engaging classroom program, and enjoy visits from animal ambassadors. Pre-registration is required. Register online and submit with payment to reserve your spot! No discounted payment at the door will be accepted – any tickets purchased the day of the event will be full price through the Ticket Office.
Explore the ways sharks experience the world by testing out shark senses! Can you see like a shark? Help match a batch of sharks, find out their favorite foods, build a shark body, and see how you measure up to a shark. Learners explore key concepts that that support Colorado Academic Standards and Next Generation Science Standards. This early childhood program incorporates nature play, inquiry learning, gross and fine motor skills.
Lunches: Please plan to keep lunches outside. Food may be enjoyed in the grass next to the Aquarium, or in the case of poor weather, extremely limited space may be available. Plan to dress warmly and eat outdoors on all occasions. Restaurant Reservations: If you are interested in dining with us during your visit, please call the restaurant for reservations.
DOWNTOWN AQUARIUM DOES NOT HAVE A STORAGE AREA FOR LUNCHES, COATS OR BACKPACKS.
Chaperones must monitor the students while at the Downtown Aquarium. • Be respectful of other visitors. • Listen to instruction from our staff and volunteers. • Do not touch animals without permission from Downtown Aquarium staff. • Do not tap on exhibit windows. • Use indoor voices, and walk through exhibit pathways. • Do not put anything in the water (fingers, food, coins or other objects)! • Keep your feet on the pathway at all times. No climbing on rocks, trees or exhibit features. • Do not eat, drink, chew gum or smoke inside Downtown Aquarium.
Participate fully in interactive games to better understand shark biology.
You’ll be walking and standing during the program; comfort helps focus on learning.
Instructors welcome curiosity — deepen your understanding by staying engaged.
Give yourself extra time to explore the aquarium’s shark exhibits before class starts.
Downtown Aquarium opened in Denver in 1999, transforming an old power plant into an educational marine center.
The aquarium emphasizes shark conservation to combat misinformation and raise awareness on ocean health.
Useful for jotting down facts and observations during the class.
Stay hydrated while moving and learning inside the aquarium.
Supports standing and walking during the program.
Aquarium temperatures can be cooler in winter; a jacket ensures comfort.
winter specific