Experience how undersea animals live when you visit one of the best aquariums in Texas. An array of marine life, from fish to sharks to even penguins and birds are celebrated at these aquatic centers. Along with tanks full of marine life, these aquariums are also home to hands-on exhibits and educational programs, making learning fun and attainable for all. You’ll never forget your time at one of these top aquariums in Texas.
Texas State Aquarium, Corpus Christi
This list kicks off with the “Official Aquarium of Texas,” Texas State Aquarium. This top-rated attraction in Corpus Christi is a multi-level center that features a wide variety of marine life, from sea creatures to swampland inhabitants. Touch pools, educational programs, and even a splash park make this aquarium perfect for young visitors. However, adults will also enjoy visiting the Texas State Aquarium, as it is also home to an on-site restaurant, gift shop and plenty of exotic fish species. Visit this Texas aquarium during the weekday to enjoy discounted ticket prices.
Moody Gardens, Galveston
Moody Gardens in Galveston is a massive entertainment complex where a multi-story aquarium with 1.5 million gallons of water is found. You can stay and play all at Moody Gardens, since Moody Gardens is not only home to an aquarium but also a hotel, rainforest exhibit, IMAX theater, a ropes course, and a water park. The aquarium at Moody Gardens is housed in one of the complex’s iconic pyramids. Exhibits at this aquarium display life in five environments: The Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean sea, South Atlantic, North Pacific and South Pacific oceans too.
Downtown Aquarium, Houston
This downtown Houston aquarium spans six acres and doesn’t just have hundreds of species of aquatic life to peruse but also has an onsite Ferris wheel, carousel and 65-foot drop ride. Downtown Aquarium is a 500,000-gallon aquarium where the largest cylindrical tank in the United States is housed. After seeing white tigers, alligators, stingrays and more, you’ll want to enjoy a great meal at the onsite seafood restaurant, where you’ll dine with the fish as a huge tank is situated in the restaurant.
Dallas World Aquarium, Dallas
Five unique exhibits — from a rainforest exhibit to an aquatic exhibit to a South African exhibit — await you at Dallas World Aquarium. This aquarium has plenty of fish and undersea creatures to view, however, there are also a number of other animals to see here too, such as three-toed sloths, monkeys, and penguins too. A popular feature of this Texas aquarium is the massive tunnel surrounded by 200,000 gallons of water where guests are surrounded by the magical underwater world. With three on-site dining options, interactive touch screens, live shows and a gift shop, the Dallas World Aquarium has plenty to offer guests of all ages.
Children's Aquarium at Fair Park, Dallas
This top attraction in Dallas was specifically made for kids. Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park features interactive exhibits, kid-size displays and easy-to-understand graphics and descriptions. The interactive elements here make education fun. Kids and adults will love seeing the sea animals here, as the tanks are filled with unique marine life like eels, octopus, stingrays and plenty of fish too. Since this aquarium is located at Fair Park, visitors here also take advantage of the other festivals and activities that are regularly hosted at Fair Park.
Austin Aquarium, Austin
Texas’ state capital city is where another great aquarium is found, the Austin Aquarium. This Texas aquarium features 35 different exhibits with a ranging array of aquatic life. Over 8,000 animals are found at the Austin Aquarium, from birds to sharks. The interactive exhibits here offer a great way to learn more about animals and aquatic life in a more hands-on experience. Both kids and adults will enjoy their time at this Texas aquarium, which is near many of the other family-friendly attractions in Austin.
Sea Center Texas, Lake Jackson
Other aquariums on this list charge admission to enter, however, Sea Center Texas is the only one listed that actually offers free admission. Perfect for those on a budget, Sea Center Texas is more than just an aquarium; it is also home to the largest redfish hatchery in the world. Ran by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the tours offered here are informative and educational. With both indoor exhibits and outdoor ponds as well as a wetland exhibit, there is plenty to see at this aquarium found in Lake Jackson, Texas.
