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Invertebrate Investigations at Downtown Aquarium Denver - Denver

Invertebrate Investigations at Downtown Aquarium Denver

Denvereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

45 minutes

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels including students with limited physical activity requirements

Overview

Unlock the fascinating world of invertebrates at Downtown Aquarium Denver with a hands-on educational program designed to engage grades 6–12 in interactive science learning.

Denver, Colorado

Invertebrate Investigations

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

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Adventure Photos

Invertebrate Investigations photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience an engaging classroom program at the aquarium, where students explore the fascinating world of invertebrates through hands-on activities. This unique opportunity not only meets Colorado State Standards but also fosters teamwork and curiosity. With a minimum group size of 10, it's an unforgettable educational adventure for grades 6-12.

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


About

Did you know that invertebrates account for 97% of the animal species on earth? Take a closer look at some of these amazing creatures in our hands-on lab, designed to introduce students to the practice and complexity of classification. Meets Colorado State Standards SC.MS.2.1, SC.MS.2.2, SC.MS.2.5, SC.MS.2.11, SC.MS. 2.12, SC.HS.2.3, SC.HS.2.4, SC.HS.2.7, SC.HS.2.9, SC.HS.2.10, SC.HS.2.13

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

Book Early for Group Availability

Schedule your classroom program at least three weeks in advance to secure your preferred date and time.

Maintain Chaperone Ratios

Ensure proper supervision with one chaperone per five students for an optimal learning environment and safety.

Respect Animal Interaction Rules

Encourage quiet, gentle behavior during hands-on activities to protect both animals and students.

Plan for Outdoor Lunch Spaces

Pack lunches to be eaten outdoors as indoor storage and eating areas are limited.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Freshwater crayfish in the aquarium’s river exhibits
  • Stingrays in the touch tanks

History

The Downtown Aquarium was established as a key urban aquarium in Denver, fostering environmental education since its opening in the early 2000s.

Conservation

The aquarium actively promotes aquatic conservation awareness by educating youth on the ecological roles and vulnerabilities of invertebrate species.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Name Tags

Essential

Helps identify students easily and maintains group coordination during activities.

Comfortable Indoor Clothing

Essential

Keep students comfortable during classroom sessions and aquarium tours.

Outdoor Jacket

Useful for outdoor lunches or waiting areas during colder months.

fall|spring|winter specific

Backpack for Lunch and Supplies

Essential

Necessary for carrying personal items and packed lunches, as storage is not provided onsite.