Adventure Collective
Interactive Coral Reef Education Program in Denver Aquarium - Denver

Interactive Coral Reef Education Program in Denver Aquarium

Denvereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for young children with normal activity levels

Overview

Dive into marine biology with Coral Communities, an engaging coral reef program at Denver Aquarium tailored for elementary students. This hands-on trip combines self-guided tours with curriculum-based learning for unforgettable ocean insights.

Denver, Colorado

Coral Communities

Starting at $9.50 l 45 min l Grades 3-5

Select participants and date

Adventure Photos

Coral Communities photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience an engaging classroom program at the aquarium, where students in grades 3-5 explore the vibrant world of coral reefs. This hands-on adventure includes a self-guided tour, meets Colorado State Standards, and fosters a deep understanding of ocean habitats. Perfect for school field trips, it promises unforgettable learning moments.

Bring Your School to the Aquarium: Classroom Program!


Rates

Student (Grades 3-5): $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

A coral reef is a colorful habitat that many animals call home. Discover what coral is and how important they are to the ocean habitat. Meets Colorado State Standards - SC.3.2.1, SC.3.2.2, SC.3.2.3, SC.3.2.5, SC.4.2.1, SC.4.3.4, SC.5.2.1, SC.5.2.2, SC.5.3.5.


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

Book in advance

Programs fill quickly during school sessions; reserve your spot early to guarantee availability.

Prepare students for interaction

Encourage students to ask questions and engage with exhibits for a richer learning experience.

Wear comfortable shoes

The aquarium requires walking and standing in exhibit areas for an extended time.

Pack water bottles

Staying hydrated is important, especially during longer visits inside the aquarium.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Clownfish
  • Sea anemones

History

The Denver Aquarium, opened in 1999, has grown into a key institution for urban aquatic education and conservation.

Conservation

The aquarium supports coral restoration efforts and educates visitors on the impact of climate change on ocean habitats.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Denver

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable shoes

Essential

Supports walking through aquarium exhibits and classroom spaces.

Notebook and pencil

Essential

Useful for jotting down observations and questions during activities.

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Keeps students hydrated throughout the program.

Light backpack

Handy for carrying supplies and any takeaway materials.