Downtown Aquarium (Denver)

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US Navy 110502-N-CI293-111 Navy Diver 1st Class Bryce Weber greets visitors at the Denver Aquarium during Denver Navy Week

Downtown Aquarium, Denver is a public aquarium and entertainment complex located in Denver, Colorado. It is a prominent attraction that features a wide variety of aquatic and terrestrial animals, as well as interactive exhibits, a restaurant, and a bar. The facility is designed to provide educational and entertaining experiences that promote wildlife conservation and awareness among its visitors.

History

The Downtown Aquarium was originally opened as Ocean Journey in 1999. However, due to financial difficulties, it was purchased by Landry's Restaurants, Inc. in 2003, which transformed it into the Downtown Aquarium. The acquisition and subsequent renovations expanded the facility's offerings, including the addition of new exhibits and the integration of a themed restaurant.

Exhibits

The Downtown Aquarium houses over 500 species of animals, with the exhibits divided into several ecosystems representing different areas of the world. Notable exhibits include the "Under the Sea," "Rainforest," "Desert," and "Coral Lagoon." Each exhibit is designed to mimic the natural habitat of the animals it houses and provides educational information about the species and their environments.

Interactive Experiences

In addition to the static exhibits, the Downtown Aquarium offers interactive experiences such as the Stingray Reef touch tank, where visitors can touch and feed live stingrays. The Aquarium also offers behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and dive shows, enhancing the educational and entertainment value for visitors.

Conservation Efforts

The Downtown Aquarium is involved in various conservation efforts and educational programs aimed at promoting environmental awareness and conservation of aquatic life. These programs include breeding programs for endangered species, habitat protection initiatives, and educational workshops and events for the public.

Dining and Entertainment

The Aquarium features a full-service restaurant and bar that offers a unique dining experience with views of the aquarium's main tank. The complex also hosts events and functions, including birthday parties, corporate events, and weddings, providing a distinctive venue for special occasions.

Visit Information

The Downtown Aquarium is open year-round, offering various ticket options, including memberships, day passes, and group rates. It is accessible to visitors of all ages and provides facilities to accommodate guests with disabilities.