Adventure Collective
Squid Science Adventures at Downtown Aquarium Denver - Denver

Squid Science Adventures at Downtown Aquarium Denver

Denvereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

45 minutes

Fitness Level

Suitable for standard classroom activity level; no special physical fitness required.

Overview

Dive into the world of squid anatomy with Downtown Aquarium’s hands-on dissection program in Denver. Perfect for students seeking an engaging marine biology experience that meets state standards.

Denver, Colorado

Squid: Inside & Out

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

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Adventure Photos

Squid: Inside & Out photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience an unforgettable classroom adventure at the Downtown Aquarium, where students delve into the fascinating world of squids! This hands-on program includes a dissection, allowing learners to explore the squid's unique anatomy while meeting Colorado state standards. Perfect for engaging young minds in marine biology and teamwork!

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 for the program


About

Join us for an in-depth look at the world’s largest, fastest and most specialized invertebrate – the squid! Students will learn about the squid’s interesting body parts both inside and out as the dissect one in partner teams. Meets Colorado state standards - SC.MS.2.2, SC.MS.2.5, SC.MS.2.4, SC.MS.2.11, SC.HS.2.3, SC.HS.2.7, SC.HS.2.4, SC.HS.2.12


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 40 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 Check-In

Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before program start to allow time for group check-in and orientation.

Maintain Quiet Focus During Dissection

Encourage students to engage respectfully and quietly to maximize learning and minimize stress on live exhibits nearby.

Dress for Indoor Comfort

Wear comfortable clothing suited for indoor classroom settings where some minor mess or wet surfaces may occur.

Group Size Limits

Reserve your spot for groups of 10–40 to ensure optimal hands-on time and adequate staff supervision.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Pacific Giant Octopus
  • Native Colorado trout species

History

Denver's Downtown Aquarium opened over two decades ago, serving as a vital urban gateway connecting city dwellers with aquatic ecosystems.

Conservation

The Aquarium promotes sustainable marine awareness through education and responsible animal care, supporting conservation messaging across all programming.

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Adventure Hotspots in Denver

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Indoor Shoes

Essential

Provides comfort during standing and walking inside the aquarium classrooms.

Name Tags for Students

Essential

Helps chaperones and staff identify students quickly and maintain group safety.

Light Jacket or Sweater

Useful for cooler indoor temperatures or outdoor lunch breaks during colder months.

fall specific

Reusable Water Bottle

Keeps students hydrated during visits and transition between indoor and outdoor areas.

summer specific