Is there parking available at the Downtown Aquarium Denver?

Yes, there is a parking lot located directly across the street from the facility. If you plan to dine at the Aquarium Restaurant after 6 PM, the restaurant can validate your parking pass, so remember to bring your parking card with you.

How long should I plan to spend at the Downtown Aquarium Denver?

Visitors should plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours to thoroughly explore all the exhibits and enjoy the various attractions. Many visitors find they could easily spend more time, especially if attending shows or dining.

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the Downtown Aquarium?

You can bring outside food and drinks into the aquarium. However, certain items like hard and soft coolers, bottled water, glass containers, and off-premise alcohol are prohibited in the garden area. The aquarium also features internal dining options, including the Aquarium Restaurant.

AquariumColorado, US

Downtown Aquarium, Denver

Nestled in the heart of Denver, the Downtown Aquarium offers an extraordinary aquatic adventure, transforming the landlocked city into a vibrant underwater world.

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About

Nestled in the heart of Denver, the Downtown Aquarium offers an extraordinary aquatic adventure, transforming the landlocked city into a vibrant underwater world. This impressive facility boasts over 1.25 million gallons of water, housing more than 500 species of animals across diverse, engaging exhibits. Visitors are invited on an immersive journey that spans ecosystems from North American rivers to tropical rainforests and vast ocean depths. The experience is designed to captivate all ages, making it a delightful destination for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a unique blend of education and entertainment.The aquarium's thoughtfully designed exhibits transport you through distinct aquatic habitats.

Wander through the "North America" exhibit to encounter local wildlife such as North American river otters and the formidable alligator snapping turtle, before venturing into "The Rainforest" where the unexpected sight of endangered Sumatran tigers prowls alongside freshwater stingrays and red-bellied piranha. The "Shipwreck" and "Coral Lagoon" exhibits immerse you in vibrant marine environments, teeming with colorful reef fish, various sharks, and mesmerizing moon jellyfish. For a truly interactive experience, the "Stingray Reef" allows visitors to gently touch and even feed these graceful creatures.Beyond the captivating displays, the Downtown Aquarium is also a culinary destination.

The renowned Aquarium Restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience, where guests can enjoy their meal surrounded by a magnificent 150,000-gallon centerpiece aquarium. Here, sharks, rays, and schools of tropical fish glide past floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a living backdrop that enhances every bite. The venue also features the enchanting Mystic Mermaids, who perform underwater shows, blending fantasy with marine education and leaving a lasting impression on visitors of all ages. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.

The Downtown Aquarium first opened its doors on June 21, 1999, under the name "Colorado's Ocean Journey." It was initially established as a non-profit organization by Bill and Judy Petersen Fleming, with an original zoogeographic design that highlighted the journeys of two major river systems to the ocean: the Colorado River in North America and the Kampar River in Indonesia.Despite its initial vision and accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the facility faced significant financial difficulties and filed for bankruptcy in 2002. In March 2003, Landry's Restaurants, Inc. purchased the aquarium, leading to substantial renovations. It reopened on July 14, 2005, with its new name, the "Downtown Aquarium," featuring enhanced exhibits and the addition of a full-service restaurant, bar, and ballroom, solidifying its place as a unique entertainment and dining complex in Denver.

What to do here

Explore the various themed aquatic galleries, witness the graceful Mystic Mermaids performances (check schedules in advance), enjoy a meal at the Aquarium Restaurant surrounded by marine life, and engage with interactive touch tanks. For a more adventurous experience, inquire about the Shark Cage Experience or behind-the-scenes tours. The aquarium also offers a 4D Theater, a carousel, and a train for family fun.

Seasonal info

As an indoor attraction, the Downtown Aquarium is an excellent year-round destination, regardless of Denver's weather. Special events, such as holiday celebrations or Mystic Mermaids breakfast events, are often held seasonally.

Accessibility

The aquarium is wheelchair accessible in most areas, and service animals are welcome. Strollers are also available for rent at the front desk.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: Plan for at least 2 to 3 hours to fully explore all the exhibits and attractions. If you plan to attend a Mystic Mermaids show, dine at the restaurant, or participate in interactive programs, allow for more time.
Best time to visit: Weekdays, particularly in the mornings or late afternoons, generally offer a less crowded experience. The aquarium's extended evening hours make it a great option after a day of other activities.
Location: Colorado, US
Species in this guide: 14

Best for

Families With Children: Engaging Exhibits, Interactive Elements Like The Stingray Reef, And The Mystic Mermaids Shows Make It Ideal For Kids Of All Ages.Wildlife And Marine Life Enthusiasts: With Over 500 Species And 1.25 Million Gallons Of Exhibits, It Offers A Comprehensive Look At Diverse Aquatic And Terrestrial Ecosystems.Couples And Diners: The Aquarium Restaurant Provides A Uniquely Romantic And Memorable Dining Experience Surrounded By Marine Life.Educational Trips: Offers Hands On Learning, Educational Programs, And Insights Into Conservation Efforts.

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Don't miss

Stingray Reef touch tank for a hands-on encounter

The impressive Shipwreck exhibit with its diverse shark species

The unique Rainforest exhibit featuring Sumatran tigers

The Mystic Mermaids shows

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Tiger

Barramundi

Ling

Tiger Shark

North American River Otter

Alligator Snapping Turtle

Emerald Tree Boa

Nurse Shark

Leopard Shark

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Purchase Tickets in Advance

Buying tickets online or considering a Denver CityPASS can often save you time and money, especially if visiting multiple attractions.

Check Show Schedules

The Mystic Mermaids perform several times daily; check the schedule upon arrival or online to plan your visit around these captivating shows.

Dine with the Fish

Make reservations for the Aquarium Restaurant, especially if you wish to secure a table with a prime view of the 150,000-gallon tank. It's a unique dining experience.

Utilize Parking Validation

If dining at the restaurant, take advantage of the parking validation offered after 6 PM.

Bring Your Camera

There are countless photo opportunities, but be prepared for varying light conditions in some exhibits.

Consider Special Experiences

Look into behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters (like feeding stingrays), or the Shark Cage Experience for an extra memorable visit.

Frequently asked questions

: Yes, there is a parking lot located directly across the street from the facility. If you plan to dine at the Aquarium Restaurant after 6 PM, the restaurant can validate your parking pass, so remember to bring your parking card with you.
: Visitors should plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours to thoroughly explore all the exhibits and enjoy the various attractions. Many visitors find they could easily spend more time, especially if attending shows or dining.
: You can bring outside food and drinks into the aquarium. However, certain items like hard and soft coolers, bottled water, glass containers, and off-premise alcohol are prohibited in the garden area. The aquarium also features internal dining options, including the Aquarium Restaurant.