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Sensational Sharks Classroom Program at Downtown Aquarium Denver - Denver

Sensational Sharks Classroom Program at Downtown Aquarium Denver

Denvereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

45 minutes

Fitness Level

Suitable for early childhood; minimal physical exertion required beyond guided activities.

Overview

Dive into a dynamic classroom experience with Sensational Sharks at Denver’s Downtown Aquarium. Designed for young learners, this interactive program combines hands-on shark science with curriculum-aligned fun.

Denver, Colorado

Sensational Sharks

Starting at $9.50 l 45 min l Grades Pre-K - 2nd

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Adventure Photos

Sensational Sharks photo 1

About This Adventure

Dive into an unforgettable classroom experience at the aquarium! Students will explore shark senses through engaging activities like matching sharks, discovering their favorite foods, and building shark bodies. This hands-on program fosters inquiry learning and motor skills, all while meeting Colorado State Standards. Perfect for curious young minds!

Bring Your School to the Aquarium: Classroom Program!


Rates

Student (Grades preK- 2): $9.50 - 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

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. This early childhood program incorporates nature play, inquiry learning, gross motor and fine motor skills. Meets Colorado State Standards- SC.P.1, SC.K.2.1, SC.P.2.1, SC.K.3.2, SC.P.2.2, SC.P.3.1, SC.1.1.1, SC.2.1.1, SC.1.2.1, SC.2.2.2


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 60 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 Smooth Check-In

Groups should arrive at least 10 minutes prior to their program time to avoid cancellation and ensure a full experience.

Maintain Quiet and Gentle Behavior

To respect the animals and fellow learners, students must stay calm and follow staff instructions during animal interactions.

Chaperone Ratio Matters

A minimum of one adult per ten students is required; groups should ideally have one chaperone per five students for optimal supervision.

Plan for Outdoor Lunches

With no onsite storage for lunches, pack accordingly and prepare to utilize the outdoor picnic areas adjacent to the aquarium.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Sharks species on display include bamboo sharks and horn sharks.
  • Native Colorado aquatic life, such as trout and various freshwater fish, are featured in freshwater exhibits.

History

The Downtown Aquarium in Denver combines entertainment and education within a repurposed historic warehouse district that reflects the city's industrial past.

Conservation

The aquarium supports sustainable aquatic environments by educating youth on marine biology and responsible stewardship practices.

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Adventure Hotspots in Denver

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Shoes

Essential

Students and chaperones will be on their feet during activities and walking exhibits.

Weather-Appropriate Outerwear

Essential

For outdoor lunch periods and waiting times, dressing in layers is advised.

spring|fall|winter specific

Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated especially during warm months when breaks occur outdoors.

summer|null specific

Name Tags for Students

Essential

Helps chaperones and staff keep track of participants efficiently.