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Educational Fish Programs at Denver's Downtown Aquarium - Denver

Educational Fish Programs at Denver's Downtown Aquarium

Denvereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for children grades 3-5 with general mobility

Overview

Fabulous Fish at Denver’s Downtown Aquarium offers kids a hands-on learning adventure about fish adaptations, aligned to Colorado standards. Discover how this interactive program brings aquatic science to life for young students.

Denver, Colorado

Fabulous Fish

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

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Adventure Photos

Fabulous Fish photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience an engaging classroom program at the Downtown Aquarium, where students in grades 3-5 explore the fascinating adaptations of fish. This hands-on learning adventure meets Colorado State Standards and includes a self-guided tour, making it a unique opportunity for students to connect with marine life in an educational setting.

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

Fish are equipped with amazing adaptations. Students will learn about both behavioral and physical adaptations that allow fish to survive in diverse conditions. Meets Colorado State Standards - SC3.2.1, SC3.2.2, SC3.2.3, SC3.2.5, SC4.2.1


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 to Avoid Crowds

Morning visits allow for calmer exploration and better engagement with interactive exhibits.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The aquarium is large with multiple galleries and exhibits; good footwear will keep young explorers comfortable.

Use the Self-Guided Tour Materials

Take advantage of provided guides to enhance learning and ensure you hit all the key species and exhibits.

Plan for Group Interaction Time

Allocate time for group discussions or Q&A sessions to deepen understanding post-visit.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Colorful cichlids from African lakes.
  • Graceful jellyfish with mesmerizing movement patterns.

History

The Downtown Aquarium opened in Denver in 1999 as part of the city’s revitalization of its riverfront area.

Conservation

The aquarium actively supports aquatic conservation efforts and educates visitors on human impacts to freshwater and marine systems.

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Adventure Hotspots in Denver

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Notebook and Pencil

Essential

Useful for jotting down observations and questions during the tour.

Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated as you move through the aquarium's exhibits.

Light Backpack

For carrying snacks, extra materials, and souvenirs comfortably.

Camera or Smartphone

Capture favorite moments and interesting aquatic species for later study.