What ages is Marine Biologist for a Day designed for?

The program is designed for children ages 6 to 12.

Is lunch provided during the program?

Yes, a meal is included and served at the aquarium restaurant.

Are there any medical accommodations?

Children must self-administer medication, as staff are not allowed to provide medications.

What should my child wear to the program?

Comfortable clothing that can get a little messy is recommended for hands-on activities.

What happens if the minimum participant number isn’t met?

The aquarium will contact you to reschedule or issue a full refund.

Is the program available year-round?

Yes, with variation in visitor volume; booking in advance is suggested during peak seasons.

Hands-On Marine Biology at Downtown Aquarium Houston | Attraction | Museum

Located in the heart of Houston, Texas, the Downtown Aquarium offers a unique indoor adventure that brings the ocean’s mysteries to life for young minds. The "Marine Biologist for a Day" program is an immersive, hands-on experience designed specifically for kids ages 6 to 12, providing a rare window into marine science without ever leaving the city. This six-hour journey blends education and excitement perfectly, inviting participants to dive into activities like squid dissection, stingray feeding, and a memorable ride aboard the aquarium’s Shark Voyage train.

What sets this program apart is its behind-the-scenes access and focus on interactive learning. The day begins with guided tours through diverse aquatic habitats, where children meet vibrant species from local bayous to tropical reefs. They then move into practical tasks, prepping food for stingrays and dissecting squid, which demystifies marine biology and fosters curiosity about aquatic ecosystems and animal anatomy. Scavenger hunts and themed games break up the science with fun, while lunch takes place within the aquarium’s lively restaurant space, rounding out the experience.

Houston’s Downtown Aquarium is more than just an exhibit space; it’s a hub for environmental education in a sprawling urban environment. By combining entertainment with scientific discovery, it opens doors for families to connect with marine life and conservation issues often overlooked inland. The aquarium’s unique approach situates it as a standout destination in Houston’s recreational scene, serving both locals and visitors seeking meaningful learning opportunities for children.

This program offers a safe, inclusive environment where children with special needs are supported, emphasizing accessibility alongside an engaging curriculum. For families looking to spark a lasting interest in marine sciences, this hands-on day transforms abstract ocean concepts into vivid, memorable experiences right in Texas’s largest city.