The Downtown Aquarium in Houston has some fascinating exhibits and rides to check out. But composing the perfect visit is as easy as determining the must-see attractions. Make sure to add each of these to your list and have them all crossed off before the day is over.
Shipwreck
A great start to your trip, the Shipwreck exhibit allows you to look inside the sunken hull of an 1800s Spanish galleon. You’ll see coral reefs with all sorts of diverse species, such as bright orange clown fish. The two key critters to look out for are a moray eel and giant Pacific octopus. Octopuses have the best camouflage of any animal in the world, so look carefully.
Lighthouse Dive
One thing many people don’t realize about the Downtown Aquarium before they visit is that there’s also a carnival area on site. This includes a number of rides for kids and adults alike. If you want to get a break from the dark interior of the aquarium and get your heart racing, Lighthouse Dive, a high-flying thrill ride, should do the trick. The ring of seats slowly rises up the shaft of a lighthouse and then drops 65 feet. If you’re not sure where it is, just follow the screams. Remember, you must be 42 inches or taller to ride.
Sunken Temple
Themed off the mythical city of El Dorado, this exhibit is like walking through the dark ruins of a Mayan temple. Within the many tanks you’ll be able to spot electric eels, all sorts of fish, and even a tiger reticulated python over 20 feet in length. Sometimes you can spot the staff diving down into the larger water tanks to care for the enclosures.
Diving Bell
Outside in the carnival section of the Aquarium, visitors can ride this blue ferris wheel up to 100 feet in the air and back down again, getting a full view of the other rides and downtown Houston. Couples should time their visit, so they catch the sunset as they ascend the wheel together. The Diving Bell requires any rider under 42 inches tall to be accompanied by an adult meeting that requirement.
White Tigers of the Maharaja’s Temple
Ever think you’d see tigers in an aquarium? The white tiger was considered a myth until their first documented sighting in central India in the 1940s. At this exhibit you can see a family of white tigers lounging and playing in an ancient maharaja temple rumored to use them as guards. You’ll also learn some fascinating facts about this rare breed and the aquarium’s efforts to conserve and protect all tiger species.
Stringray Reef
It’s a common misconception that stingrays are aggressive and will try to sting humans on purpose. In fact, they’re docile, eager to be fed, and cute, not unlike little water puppies. This touch tank lets you feel the stingray’s curiously textured skin and see their charming behavior. This is a new addition to the aquarium, so check it out if it doesn’t sound familiar from your last visit.
With these six things to see, any trip to this aquarium is going to be a blast. Make time to visit soon and bring a few friends.
Image “The Downton Houston Aquarium Houston Blue Hour HDR” by Katie Haugland Bowen, used under CC BY 2.0
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