Downtown Aquarium: Tickets

Houston’s Downtown Aquarium is a one-of-a-kind attraction that you must discover while on your Texas vacation. Far superior to a standard underwater attraction, this theme park features tiger exhibits, stingray experiences and exhilarating rides, all bound to make for a memorable experience.

By purchasing Downtown Aquarium tickets, you’re guaranteed a fun day out with the whole family. Anyone from 4 to 94 will find something to catch their eye in this spectacular venue.

Here's all you need to know about the Downtown Aquarium, one of the most exciting theme parks in Houston, Texas.

How much do Downtown Aquarium tickets cost?

All-Day Adventure Pass

The All-Day Adventure Pass is the most popular of Downtown Aquarium tickets and grants the holder access to all the exhibits, as well as the Stingray Reef, and all rides in the park.

• Adults: US$25.99
• Children under 1.06 meters: US$23.99

Aquarium Adventure Exhibit Pass

If you have no interest in rides, you may wish to purchase this pass, which enables you to explore all the fascinating sea creatures onsite.

• Adults: US$16.99
• Children under 1.06 meters: US$14.99
• Children under 3: Free

Stingray Reef

Those who wish to get up close and personal with a stingray can do so by purchasing Downtown Aquarium tickets for the Stingray Reef.

• Admission: US$3.95
• Stingray food: US$2.99
• Value pass (admission plus stingray food:) US$6.25

Single-Use Ride Tickets

Alternatively, thrill seekers who know which attractions they wish to experience can opt for tickets to individual rides.

• Shark Voyage: US$7.50
• Diving Bell Ferris Wheel: US$6.50
• Aquatic Carousel: US$5.50
• Lighthouse Dive: US$6.50
• Frog Hopper: US$5.50
• Aqua Wheel: US$5.50

Who is eligible for discounts?

Seniors aged 65 and over benefit from a reduction on their Downtown Aquarium admission fee when purchasing an Aquarium Adventure Exhibit Pass, which discounts their ticket to just US$14.99.

Military personnel and veterans benefit from a discount of US$2 on All-Day Adventure Passes. They also qualify for a 10% reduction on any purchases made in the aquarium’s gift shop or restaurant.

Should you book in advance?

While it is not mandatory to do so, booking your Downtown Aquarium tickets online in advance is advisable for all visitors. By doing so, you’ll benefit from flexible passes that allow you to visit anytime within the following 30 days, meaning that you can alter your trip itinerary easily. You’ll also guarantee the best price on your tickets and you can release some of the stress of planning a vacation.

What are the best Downtown Aquarium tours?

Downtown Aquarium All-Day Pass

Take yourself on a self-guided Downtown Aquarium tour with these passes that grant you access to the entire attraction. Discover a whopping 300 species of marine creatures and deepen your knowledge of the big blue sea.

Feed a stingray from your hand to gain a greater understanding of these friendly beings and feel your adrenaline spike as you hop onto any of the aquarium’s many rides, from nostalgic Ferris wheels to thrilling 20-meter drops, and hilarious “Frog Hopper” experiences. Stay as long as you like with these open-ended tickets, exploring every nook and cranny of the site at your leisure.

Are there any combined tickets or tours including Downtown Aquarium and other attractions?

Purchasing combined Downtown Aquarium tickets is recommended for anyone wanting to make the most of their time in Texas. You’ll typically save money and time compared to booking several excursions separately.

●       Houston city tour plus Downtown Aquarium admission pass: Hop onto a sightseeing bus for a city tour of Houston’s highlights, from the venue that houses its legendary basketball team, the “Rockets” to its Buffalo Bayou Park, before discovering the delights of the Downtown Aquarium.

What will you see inside?

The Downtown Aquarium features eight exciting exhibits, where you’ll find more than 300 creatures, big and small. In the Texas Bayou, you can discover native creatures, including the infamous alligator, as well as turtles and bullfrogs.

Those wishing to see the critters that live on coral reefs can do so at the Shipwreck exhibit where you’ll find a 17th-century Spanish galleon lying, wrecked, as vibrant fish swim happily around it, from clownfish to groupers. Head to the Rainforest area to gain an insight into the types of creatures that live inside the rivers of this humid environment, including red-bellied piranhas and venomous freshwater stingrays.

Be transported to ancient worlds at the Sunken Temple exhibit, which is themed around the legends of El Dorado. Alongside numerous fish, you’ll also find creepy crawlies, such as tarantulas, in this corner of the aquarium. Those without a PADI license who wish to experience an offshore rig can do so through this replica, where you’ll see creatures that prefer the deep ocean, including snappers.

Become a pro at all things sea by heading to the Discovery Zone, where interactive exhibits will help you to learn about the different ocean environments, from the arctic seas to tropical coral reefs. Or, step into Stingray Reef for an experience you won’t forget, feeding and stroking the playful creatures.

The last zone you can discover with Downtown Aquarium tickets is Tigers of the Maharaja’s Temple, where you’ll step away from the seas to admire the powerful movements and dazzling stripes of Bengal tigers. Alongside these fascinating exhibitions, you can also explore a wide range of rides, making this an experience the whole family can enjoy.

How to get there?

Many hotels in Houston provide a shuttle service to the Downtown Aquarium. However, if yours doesn’t, you can easily access the site via public transportation instead.

The closest bus station to the attraction is "Preston St. @ Bagby St.", which is just a 2-minute walk from the aquarium. The bus stop is served by Lines 221, 222, 228 and 229, all of which run regularly throughout the day.

What are the opening times?

The Downtown Aquarium opening hours for the exhibits are between 10 AM and 8:30 PM from Sunday to Thursday. On Fridays and Saturdays, the park has extended opening hours, and closes at 10 PM.

Rides begin operating 30 minutes after the site opens and run until closure.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

The Downtown Aquarium is an accessible destination for wheelchair users, meaning that everyone can enjoy its exhibits and attractions.

When is the best time to visit the Downtown Aquarium?

The best time to visit the Downtown Aquarium in Houston is during weekdays, especially in the mornings right after opening. Weekday mornings tend to be quieter than weekends, providing a more leisurely experience. For a better chance for close-up views of the aquatic life and interactive exhibits, avoid school holidays and peak summer months, when crowds are at their largest.

Which other attractions and museums can be visited in Houston?

• NASA Space Center
• Underground Tunnel
• Burke Baker Planetarium
• Museum of Natural Science

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking and layers in case it's cooler inside some of the exhibits.
• The Downtown Aquarium offers touch tanks and interactive displays. Ensure your hands are clean, and always follow the guidelines given by staff for interacting with the animals.
• There's a restaurant on-site with a unique aquatic backdrop, making for a memorable dining experience. It can be busy, so consider reserving a table in advance.
• The aquarium occasionally hosts special events or themed nights. Check their calendar in advance to see if your visit aligns with any special programs.