AquariumTexas, US

San Antonio Aquarium

The San Antonio Aquarium offers an immersive, hands-on journey into a vibrant world of marine life and exotic animals.

About

The San Antonio Aquarium offers an immersive, hands-on journey into a vibrant world of marine life and exotic animals. This unique facility transcends a typical aquarium experience by providing unparalleled interactive opportunities, allowing visitors to connect directly with thousands of species from oceans and rainforests across the globe. From feeding colorful lorikeets to petting friendly stingrays, guests of all ages can engage in memorable encounters that foster appreciation and learning about diverse ecosystems. Beyond the fascinating marine exhibits featuring sharks, vibrant corals, and mesmerizing jellyfish, the San Antonio Aquarium is also home to a surprising array of land animals. Visitors can get up close with playful lemurs, sloths, kangaroos, and various reptiles and amphibians in exhibits designed to spark wonder and education. Daily shows and special events further enrich the experience, providing insights into animal behaviors and conservation efforts. This family-friendly destination emphasizes direct interaction, aiming to create lasting bonds between visitors and wildlife. It offers a captivating adventure for anyone looking to dive deeper than mere observation, providing a unique blend of entertainment and educational engagement in the heart of San Antonio. Take the ultimate field guide with you: use the Snappit app to identify birds, plants, and animals on your trip.

The San Antonio Aquarium opened its doors in 2014 in Leon Valley, a suburb of San Antonio, envisioned as an interactive family destination by founder Vince Covino. The facility, housed in a repurposed former car dealership, aimed to offer hands-on experiences with marine life and other animals, distinguishing itself from traditional aquariums. However, the aquarium has faced significant controversies and regulatory scrutiny over the years. It has received multiple citations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for violations of federal standards, including issues related to animal welfare and facility maintenance. Incidents such as untrained lemurs biting visitors, an octopus clinging to a child's arm, and housing juvenile kangaroos in an office with electrical cords have drawn criticism and led to calls for improved animal care. The facility is owned and operated by Crysty Covino, wife of former owner Ammon Covino, who was previously convicted of wildlife trafficking.

What to do here

Engage in hands-on animal encounters and feeding sessions (many require purchasing tokens). Attend daily shows featuring reptiles, birds, and mammals. Explore the diverse exhibits ranging from cold and tropical fish to exotic land animals. Enjoy additional attractions like the arcade and I-Guana Jump.

Seasonal info

Summer is a high season, so expect larger crowds. Seasonal events may be available; check their website for updates.

Accessibility

Service animals are permitted within the aquarium. Visitors are advised to contact the aquarium directly for specific accessibility inquiries beyond service animals.

Don't miss

Stingray Touch Tank

Dip your hands into the water and interact with friendly stingrays.

Interactive Aviaries

Feed colorful lorikeets and parakeets.

Sloth Encounter

Get a unique opportunity to interact with two-toed sloths (additional token purchase required).

Lemur Encounters

Meet and learn about brown and ring-tailed lemurs up close.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Blue Spotted Stingray

Toucan

Capybara

Octopus

American Alligator

Box Jellyfish

Green Iguana

Coral

Snap map for this place

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

Loading map…

Good to know before you go

Arrive Early

Visit right when the aquarium opens, especially on weekdays, to experience exhibits and encounters with fewer crowds.

Budget for Interactions

Many of the unique animal encounters and feeding opportunities require purchasing additional tokens, so plan accordingly if you wish to participate.

Check Daily Schedules

Consult the daily schedule upon arrival for show times and special presentations to maximize your visit.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The aquarium features various indoor and outdoor exhibits, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Utilize Free Parking

Free parking is available around the facility, making it convenient for visitors.

Pack Snacks for Breaks

If you bring your own snacks, you can enjoy them in the designated outdoor picnic area.

Frequently asked questions

: The San Antonio Aquarium offers numerous interactive opportunities, including touching and feeding stingrays, feeding lorikeets and parakeets in interactive aviaries, and special encounters with animals like sloths, lemurs, and even sharks, typically requiring the purchase of tokens.
: Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the San Antonio Aquarium. However, guests may consume their own food and drinks in the outside parking lot picnic area.
: Most visitors find that a typical visit to the San Antonio Aquarium lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, allowing ample time to explore the various exhibits and participate in interactive experiences.