Downtown Aquarium: An Underwater Adventure in Denver
Explore underwater ecosystems, dine with marine life, and discover aquatic wonders at Denver's Downtown Aquarium. An unforgettable family adventure awaits!
The Downtown Aquarium in Denver is more than just an aquarium; it's an aquatic adventure, theme park, educational center, retail store, and restaurant all rolled into one. Located at the intersection of I-25 and 23rd Avenue, it is easily accessible and offers a diverse range of attractions for all ages. The aquarium's Adventure Exhibit features over a million gallons of underwater exhibits, showcasing fascinating ecosystems from around the world. Visitors can explore various themed areas, including the Rainforest, Sunken Lagoon, At the Beach, and Under the Sea, each teeming with unique marine life. The interactive Stingray Reef touch tank allows for hands-on learning, while the Aquarium Restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience surrounded by a 150,000-gallon aquarium. Originally founded as Colorado's Ocean Journey, the aquarium aimed to educate visitors about the connection between freshwater ecosystems and the ocean. It highlighted the journeys of the Colorado River and the Kampar River in Indonesia. In 2003, Landry's Restaurants, Inc. purchased the facility and reopened it as the Downtown Aquarium in 2005, adding a full-service restaurant, bar, and ballroom. Today, the Downtown Aquarium continues its focus on conservation, housing numerous endangered and threatened species.
Local tips
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the aquarium's exhibits and interactive experiences.
- Dine at the Aquarium Restaurant after 6 PM to get your parking pass validated.
- Check the aquarium's website for the mermaid show schedule and other special events.
- Consider purchasing a CityPASS for discounted admission to the aquarium and other Denver attractions.
- Visit during off-peak hours (weekdays) to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
A brief summary to Downtown Aquarium
- 700 Water St, Denver, Jefferson Park, Colorado, 80211, US
- +1303-561-4450
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 10 am-8 pm
- Friday 10 am-9 pm
- Saturday 10 am-9 pm
- Sunday 10 am-8 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Denver Union Station, take the Light Rail C Line towards Littleton and get off at the Auraria Parkway Station. From there, walk north along the Auraria Parkway, then turn left onto Water Street. The Aquarium will be on your right. A single ride fare is $3.00 [https://www.rtd-denver.com/fares-passes/fare-information].
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Walking
From the 16th Street Mall, head west towards the South Platte River. Cross the river on the Millennium Bridge and continue onto Platte Street. Turn left onto Water Street, and you'll find the Aquarium on your left. The walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes. There is no cost for walking.
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Driving
From I-25, exit at 23rd Avenue (Exit 211). If you're traveling north, follow the exit to the right, and the Aquarium will be immediately on your right. If you're traveling south, turn left at the stop sign and cross over I-25. The Aquarium has a parking lot across the street that accepts both card and cash. Parking costs approximately $10-20. If you dine at the restaurant after 6 PM, they will validate your parking pass.
