The Downtown Aquarium in Denver

Have you made a trip to the Downtown Aquarium in Denver? It’s the perfect afternoon outing for when it is way too hot outside to do much of anything. We made a trip there a couple of months ago and the whole family had a great time.

The Exhibits

The Aquarium has several different exhibits which include North America, In the Desert, Under the Sea, At the Wharf and more! You can read about the different exhibits and what they have to offer here.

Besides just looking at the animals, you can also interact with them. My kids’ favorite part was feeding the sting rays. You pay a few dollars for some little fish and stand by the tank to feed the sting rays. Be sure and feed them at the deepest end because those guys can jump out!

Hours of Operation: Sunday – Thursday 10 am – 9 pm; Friday & Saturday 10 am – 9:30 pm

Dining

The one thing we didn’t end up doing while we were there, was eat at the Aquarium Restaurant. The next time we go back, we will definitely have to eat there. I have heard it’s a lot of fun for the whole family and that the food is really good.

The restaurant is under water and you are seated next to 150,000 gallon aquarium with excellent views of the rays, sawfish and many other exciting creatures.

According to the website, they offer a variety of seafood, steaks, chicken, salads, pasta dishes and yummy desserts. Sounds good to me!

There is also the Dive Lounge, which is located on the first floor. It’s an upscale bar that offers a posh getaway, including Happy Hour Monday – Friday. They say it’s a great place to escape to after a long day of work.

If you are looking for a fun dining experience after you visit all of the sea life and other creatures at the Aquarium, either one of these places is perfect!

Restaurant & Dive Lounge Hours of Operation: Sunday – Thursday 11 am – 9 pm; Friday & Saturday 11 am – 10 pm

Dive Lounge Happy Hour: Monday – Friday 3:30 pm – 6:30 pm

For more information, including menu choices, click here.

Education

Not only does the Aquarium provide great exhibits and a fun dining experience, they have some educational programs. You can be a marine biologist for the day, a zoologist for the day, attend a camp or even stay overnight. Find out more about these programs here. I plan on doing the marine biologist program with my daughter, so I will let you know how that goes.

This really is a fun family activity and a good way to spend part of your day either while you are visiting Denver on vacation, or need something to keep the kids busy this summer.

The Downtown Aquarium is located at 700 Water St, Denver CO 80211 [map]

If you have been to the Aquarium in Denver before, then tell me what your experience was like!

Image Credit: Scubadive97 @flickr