Adventure Collective
Explore Houston’s Downtown Aquarium: An Interactive Marine Adventure for Groups - Houston

Explore Houston’s Downtown Aquarium: An Interactive Marine Adventure for Groups

Houstoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels as most activities are self-paced and indoors with minimal walking.

Overview

Discover Houston’s Downtown Aquarium—home to over 500 species and thrilling rides designed for educational groups. Dive into a self-guided aquatic adventure perfect for students and family fun alike.

Houston, Texas

Field Trip Registration • Not Tax Exempt

Minimum 10 Participants (Deposit Required)

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on a self-guided adventure at the Downtown Aquarium, where over 500 fascinating species await your exploration. Perfect for educational groups, this experience allows students to learn at their own pace while enjoying thrilling rides and the interactive Stingray Reef. Make unforgettable memories in a vibrant aquatic world!

Self-Guided Adventures

Committed to education and conservation, the Downtown Aquarium is home to over 500 species of animals guaranteed to keep your students interested and engaged in learning! Self-guided adventures allow you and your students to explore the Aquarium at your own pace.

Tour guides and educational programs are not included.

Groups qualifying for discounted school admission rates include:

  • public, private, charter, and religious schools
  • homeschool groups
  • preschools
  • daycares
  • YMCA/YWCA
  • after-school programs
  • Boys & Girls Club
  • scout troops

Duration

Varies - we recommend at least an hour and a half to tour the exhibits and ride the rides.

Check-In Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm Aquarium Exhibit & Stingray Reef: Opens at 10:00am Amusement Park: Opens at 10:30am Hours of operation are subject to change.


Rates

All Day Adventure Pass Includes unlimited, all-day access to the Aquarium Adventure Exhibit, Stingray Reef, and all amusement rides - weather permitting. Stingray food is not included, but can be added to your reservation. Student (Ages 2 & Under): Free Student (Grades Pre-K to 12): $11.00 Teacher & Chaperone (Ages 18+): 1 Free Chaperone for Every 5 Students Additional Adult Chaperone (Ages 18+): $11.00 Bus Driver: Free with ID

PLEASE NOTE An additional 6% online booking fee will be added to the total by our online booking service. See FareHarbor's terms of service on the reservation page for more information.


Payments

  • A $55.00 deposit (plus online booking fee) is due at the time of booking.
  • After making your reservation online, you will receive a confirmation email with more details regarding your visit.
  • Groups that are NOT tax exempt in Texas will have taxes added to their final bill.
  • If you must cancel your field trip, please do so via email (AquariumHouston@Ldry.com) at least 48 hours prior to your visit. Cancellations made with less than 48 hours' notice will be subject to a $55 cancellation fee.

Policies & Guidelines

  • Groups must have a minimum of 10 students or you will be charged for a minimum of 10.
  • Students must be accompanied by an adult chaperone at all times.
  • Students may bring bag lunches and use outdoor picnic areas. Picnic areas cannot be reserved. There is no storage for coolers or bag lunches.
  • If you are interested in dining with us during your visit, please contact us to set up a restaurant reservation. Large reservations are strictly limited to 40 people (including students AND adults). Restaurant reservations are not guaranteed and are not available on Friday evenings or all day on Saturday and Sunday.
  • Any vehicle parking in the main Aquarium parking lot must pay for parking upon exit of the lot. Parking fees are cashless, paid by card or app only.
  • Buses will be asked to street park or park off-site, especially on busier days.

Adventure Tips

Plan for at Least 90 Minutes

Allocate a minimum of an hour and a half to fully experience the exhibits and rides at your own pace.

Bring a Bag Lunch

Outdoor picnic areas are available for groups bringing food, but storage and cooler access are not provided.

Book in Advance

Secure your group's spot with a $55 deposit and plan ahead to avoid cancellation fees for late changes.

Chaperones Must Accompany Students

Adult supervision is required at all times to ensure safety and enhance the learning experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Southern stingray
  • Coral reef fish species

History

The Downtown Aquarium opened in Houston to showcase aquatic life in an urban setting while fostering environmental education and conservation awareness.

Conservation

The Aquarium supports regional conservation efforts and promotes sustainability through educational programs and habitat exhibits.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Houston

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

You’ll be on your feet exploring both indoors and out, making comfortable shoes a must.

Sunscreen

For outdoor picnic areas and walks between attractions on sunny Houston days.

spring specific

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated while touring the exhibits and enjoying outdoor rides.

summer specific

Light Jacket or Sweater

Aquarium interiors can be cool, so bring a layer for comfort.

fall specific