moderate
3–4 hours
Participants should be comfortable standing and moving around for extended periods but no strenuous activity is required.
Discover the behind-the-scenes magic of marine life at Houston’s Downtown Aquarium with the 'Working on the Wild Side' program. Hands-on activities and close animal encounters make it a memorable, educational adventure for teens.
Ages 12-17
Join the Downtown Aquarium's Working on the Wild Side program for an unforgettable day of animal adventures! Teens will engage in hands-on activities, explore behind-the-scenes, and participate in live animal encounters. From squid dissections to feeding stingrays, this immersive experience fosters a passion for animal care and conservation.
If you have a teen aspiring to work with animals, sign them up for Working on the Wild Side at the Downtown Aquarium! This all-day program includes hands-on activities, tours, and live animal encounters as we take teens behind-the-scenes to learn more about animal care, training, conservation, and the zoo/aquarium industry.
Included:
If your teen has any special needs, allergies, or health concerns, please note this when registering. Participants must be able to administer their own medication (i.e. inhalers, epi-pens) if needed, as Aquarium Staff are not permitted to administer medications. Medications will not be provided by the Aquarium (ex. Tylenol, Benedryl, etc.). If you have any additional concerns or questions please contact the Education Department at AquariumHouston@Ldry.com or (713) 315-5112.
Downtown Aquarium, Landry’s Restaurants, Inc., and its employees are not liable for any injury or loss suffered by you or attending minors during the program. Additionally, you are waiving your right to make demand upon Downtown Aquarium, Landry’s Restaurants, Inc., and its employees for payment of any damages suffered by you or the minor child during the program, whether such damages are caused by physical injury, loss of property, or acts of a third party.
Working on the Wild Side requires a minimum of 5 registered participants in order for the program to proceed. If this attendance minimum is not met two weeks prior to the program date, you will be contacted to reschedule or be fully refunded.
The Downtown Aquarium also reserves the right to cancel any program at any time for the health and safety of our employees, animals, and visitors, in which case full refunds will be issued.
Getting there early ensures you have plenty of time to gear up and settle in before activities start.
Participating in animal handling and dissections requires secure footwear for safety.
Capture your favorite moments and jot down interesting facts learned during the experience.
Adhere to the aquarium staff’s guidance to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone.
Houston’s Downtown Aquarium was established in 2003, combining a public aquarium with amusement rides and dining, making it a popular family destination.
The Aquarium actively participates in marine conservation initiatives, and the ‘Working on the Wild Side’ program encourages young people to contribute to ongoing wildlife preservation efforts.
Necessary for safety during animal handling and behind-the-scenes activities.
Useful for taking notes and capturing information during the tour.
Great for documenting your experience and interesting animals.
Wear adaptable clothing suitable for indoor activities and varied temperatures.