Located in Corpus Christi in the middle of the Texas coast, the Texas State Aquarium attracts more than 500,000 visitors each year (and educates more than 60,000 children each year through a variety of camps and educational programs). Designated the “Official Aquarium of Texas,” the Texas State Aquarium offers educational and entertaining experiences for those who walk through its doors. It is one of the most popular attractions in Texas.
The aquarium has a wide variety of exhibits that house fish native to the Gulf of Mexico, as well as some exotic species. There is a complete list of daily programs, including: You “Otter” Know This; Dolphin presentations; Diving encounters; Reptile Report; Birds of prey; and much more. There are also a number of special events throughout the year and various educational programs, including the popular Sea Camp and Sea Squirt programs.
The Living Shores is an interactive exhibit that shows the Laguna Madre, the elongated bay system that stretches from the south of Corpus Christi. This exhibit houses the largest “touch pool” in the aquarium. This is a favorite attraction among younger visitors to the Texas State Aquarium as they have the opportunity to physically interact with marine life. The aquatic nursery is another favorite among young visitors.
However, the most popular attraction at the Texas State Aquarium are the dolphins that reside in Dolphin Bay. These dolphins can be viewed from above or from the windows seen below the open-air theater, giving visitors an underwater view of the dolphins going through their daily routines. These same dolphins are also the stars of hourly dolphin shows where they perform a variety of stunts and routines.
The best time to visit, especially during the peak summer season, is during the week. If you plan to visit the Aquarium on the weekend, try to avoid the busiest hours, which according to the Aquarium staff are between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
During the summer months, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Aquarium is open every day from 9 a.m. M. At 6 p. M. The rest of the year, the Aquarium is open every day from 9 a.m. M. At 5 p. M., Except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Admission is reasonable, with fees that are: Members – FREE; Adults {13 years and older} – $ 20.95; Retirees {65+} – $ 18.95; Children {3 to 12 years old} – $ 14.95; Children {2 and under} – FREE. Group discounts are available. Parking is $ 5. The aquarium suggests that visitors arrive 20 minutes early for scuba introductions.
