easy
45 minutes
Suitable for early childhood; minimal physical exertion required beyond guided activities.
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.
Starting at $9.50 l 45 min l Grades Pre-K - 2nd
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!
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.
45 minutes for the program.
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
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.
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.
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.
Groups should arrive at least 10 minutes prior to their program time to avoid cancellation and ensure a full experience.
To respect the animals and fellow learners, students must stay calm and follow staff instructions during animal interactions.
A minimum of one adult per ten students is required; groups should ideally have one chaperone per five students for optimal supervision.
With no onsite storage for lunches, pack accordingly and prepare to utilize the outdoor picnic areas adjacent to the aquarium.
The Downtown Aquarium in Denver combines entertainment and education within a repurposed historic warehouse district that reflects the city's industrial past.
The aquarium supports sustainable aquatic environments by educating youth on marine biology and responsible stewardship practices.
Students and chaperones will be on their feet during activities and walking exhibits.
For outdoor lunch periods and waiting times, dressing in layers is advised.
spring|fall|winter specific
Stay hydrated especially during warm months when breaks occur outdoors.
summer|null specific
Helps chaperones and staff keep track of participants efficiently.