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Explore Denver’s Downtown Aquarium: Behind the Scenes of Aquatic Science and Adventure - Denver

Explore Denver’s Downtown Aquarium: Behind the Scenes of Aquatic Science and Adventure

Denvereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

45 minutes

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; primarily seated and observational learning

Overview

Discover the fascinating science behind Denver’s Downtown Aquarium with an engaging 45-minute classroom program that reveals how aquatic life thrives within a million gallons of water. Perfect for school groups and nature enthusiasts, this experience combines education and adventure just steps from the Rocky Mountains.

Denver, Colorado

Aquarium: The Inside Story

Starting at $9.50 l 45 min l Grades 6-12 and College

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Adventure Photos

Aquarium: The Inside Story photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience an engaging classroom program at the Downtown Aquarium, where students explore the science behind aquatic life. Discover the chemistry and technology that sustain a million gallons of water, while meeting Colorado State Standards. This unique opportunity combines education with adventure, making it a memorable field trip for students and chaperones alike.

Bring Your School to the Aquarium: Classroom Program!


Rates

Student (Grades 6-12): $9.50 - fee includes self-guided tour aquarium admission College Student (Valid ID): $12.50 - fee includes self-guided tour aquarium admission Chaperone (Ages 18+): Free - 1 chaperone is free for every 5 paying students Additional Adult (Ages 18+): $20.00 aquarium admission. School fieldtrips are not taxed. There is a 6% booking fee for online booking added to your total at check-out.

Classroom programs must be booked at least 3 weeks in advance.


Duration

45 minutes for the program.


About

Look behind the scenes at the chemistry, biology and technology of keeping thousands of aquatic animals healthy and a million gallons of water inhabitable. Learn about the nitrogen cycle and three types of filtration used in the aquarium’s water cycle. Meets Colorado State Standards – SC.MS.2.5, SC.MS.2.7, SC.MS.2.12, SC.MS.3.4, SC.HS.2.3, SC.HS.2.4, SC.HS.3.6 This class is also available for College Classes at $12.50 per student.


Policies and Guidelines - Please read in full before booking your trip.

  • Group Size: School groups must have a minimum of 10 students or you will be charged for a minimum 10. The maximum group size for this classroom program is 30 students per hour time slot. If you have more students you will need to book an additional hour time slot.
  • Chaperones: We highly recommend a chaperone ratio of 1:5, adults (include the teachers) within this ratio are free. For proper student supervision we require a minimum of 1 chaperone for every 10 students, regardless of the grade level. Students MUST stay with their chaperone at all times including the restrooms. At the stingray exhibit, chaperones must ensure that students are following all guidelines and listening to the Downtown Aquarium Education staff. Because students have an opportunity to interact with some of our animals, we ask that teachers and chaperones encourage quiet, gentle behavior. Aquarium staff reserves the right to limit animal interaction time if students do not conduct themselves in an appropriate manner.

Due to space constraints in the classroom space, only 1 teacher and 5 other adults will be admitted to the Classroom Programs. Additional adults can enjoy the aquarium while their students are in the class. Siblings and strollers are not allowed in the Classroom Programs.

  • If you are scheduled for a Classroom Program, please arrive 10 minutes in advance of your program time. If you are more than 10 minutes late for your classroom program, it will be cancelled and is non-refundable.
  • DOWNTOWN AQUARIUM DOES NOT HAVE A STORAGE AREA FOR LUNCHES, COATS OR BACKPACKS.

Dining

School Group Lunches: Please plan to keep lunches in backpacks or on the bus. 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, we have a pre-order menu that we can prepare for your group up to 20 people. Please call us for more information to set up a restaurant reservation.


Identification

The aquarium representative will give each chaperone a sticker. Chaperones must wear the “Chaperone” sticker at all times while visiting Downtown Aquarium the day of their visit. It is recommended that all students also have a name tag that includes the school name, teacher’s name or contact phone number.


Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Seamless Check-in

Be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled program to avoid missing your session, as late arrivals cannot be accommodated.

Maintain Quiet & Gentle Interaction Around Animals

Encourage respectful behavior when engaging with animals like stingrays to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Plan for Limited Indoor Lunch Space

Pack lunches smartly and plan to eat outdoors or back on the bus, as indoor lunch facilities are not available for groups during classroom programs.

Follow Group Size Guidelines

Groups must have a minimum of 10 students and maximum 30 per hour time slot for classroom programs; larger groups require booking additional slots.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Stingrays
  • Colorful tropical fish

History

Opened decades ago as one of Denver’s key educational attractions, the aquarium has continuously updated its science curriculum to align with state standards.

Conservation

The facility prioritizes sustainable water filtration methods and educates visitors on aquatic conservation efforts to protect freshwater and marine life.

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Adventure Hotspots in Denver

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

You’ll do some walking inside the aquarium, so supportive shoes help keep you comfortable.

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during and after your visit with your own water bottle.

Weather-Appropriate Outerwear

Essential

spring specific

Notebook and Pen

Great for students to jot down scientific notes or observations during the program.