For an exciting indoor safari that takes in an array of animals from white tigers to zebra sharks, head over to Houston’s Downtown Aquarium. Travel to mystical worlds as you make your way through the themed exhibits, discovering creatures hidden in miniature ecosystems and ancient ruins. There is even an underwater café, where you can admire the indoor aquarium while enjoying some delicious seafood. Why not try out the Lobster Bisque or the spectacular shrimp popcorn!
Come face to face with rare white tigers in a crumbling Maharajah’s temple and see if you can spot stingrays, piranhas and bright tropical birds in the depths of the rainforest. For an unforgettable underwater experience, take the Shark train across the bottom of a tank filled with these prowling predators. It’s perfectly safe, but isn’t a trip for the faint-hearted!
There are hundreds of different fish in the Aquarium’s 2 million litres of tanks, including native species and sea-life from further afield. Inside the hull of a wrecked Spanish galleon, you’ll find coral reefs created by the Aquarium’s own biologists. Frequented by grouper, clownfish, world eels and a giant octopus, this micro bionetwork is teeming with life. For a taste of the Deep South, head to the Louisiana swamp and see if you can recognise alligators, snapping turtles, bullfrogs, catfish and crayfish.
When you’ve explored the underwater worlds, head outside for some fun above ground in the outdoor entertainment area. An Adventure Pass will give you access to all of the rides throughout the day, or pay for each ride individually if you’re not staying for long. Ride an alligator on the carousel, have a go on the stomach-flipping Lighthouse Dive or take a spin on the giant Ferris Wheel.
Based in Northern Downtown, The Aquarium is open every day and has free parking. Educational and entertaining, with a serious commitment to conservation, this is a great place to learn and play.
