Texas State Aquarium
Dive into marine wonders at the Texas State Aquarium, featuring diverse sea life, dolphin shows, and conservation efforts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Texas State Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dive into marine wonders at the Texas State Aquarium, featuring diverse sea life, dolphin shows, and conservation efforts.
"It is a bit on the pricy side but it’s worth it since the money goes to help the rescue and animals!"
🎯 Become a Member
Skip ticket lines and get discounts! A great option for frequent visitors.
⏰ Check Presentation Schedule
Plan your visit around feeding times and amazing shows for a full experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dolphin Show
Dolphin Bay
Witness playful dolphins in an engaging show, a crowd favorite for all ages. Catch the magic and learn about these intelligent creatures.
Shark Encounters
Shark Lagoon
Get up close to fascinating sharks and learn about marine conservation efforts. Some even offer unique swimming experiences!
Splash Park
Outdoor area
A fantastic way for kids to cool off and burn energy with water play. Open on weekends, it's a hit during warmer months.
Caribbean Journey
Exhibits
Explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including rays and sea turtles. An immersive underwater experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Budgeting for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Become a Member
Skip ticket lines and get discounts! A great option for frequent visitors.
⏰ Check Presentation Schedule
Plan your visit around feeding times and amazing shows for a full experience.
👟 Stroller Friendly
The aquarium is accessible for strollers; rentals are available if needed.
💦 Splash Pad Fun
Bring swimsuits for kids to enjoy the splash park on weekends! +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Become a Member
Skip ticket lines and get discounts! A great option for frequent visitors.
⏰ Check Presentation Schedule
Plan your visit around feeding times and amazing shows for a full experience.
👟 Stroller Friendly
The aquarium is accessible for strollers; rentals are available if needed.
💦 Splash Pad Fun
Bring swimsuits for kids to enjoy the splash park on weekends! +1
📸 Capture the Moments
Great photo opportunities, especially with the dolphins and sharks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Texas State Aquarium for its engaging exhibits, particularly the dolphin shows and shark encounters, and its commitment to conservation. The Splash Park is a huge hit with families. While some find the ticket prices steep, most agree the experience is worthwhile, especially on weekdays when crowds are lower.
"This was such an amazing visit! It is a bit on the pricy side (+$7 parking) but it’s worth it since the money goes to help the rescue and animals! I went during a weekday so it wasn’t packed at all. I was only planning on staying for an hour or two and ended up staying until close. I was able to catch the dolphin show at 3pm, which was magnificent!! The water is beautiful from there. They have swings where you can relax and watch the water or the USS Lexington, which is right next door! The aquarium itself has so many cool fish and staff who truly love their job! They are attentive and informative! I loved my visit here and would definitely recommend it to anyone thinking of visiting!"
Neil Darji
"Beautiful way to spend a very hot day. I'm a total aquarium nerd, and this was a treat! Lots of good info on the various species. Animals are healthy and happy. The dolphin show was so cute, you can tell they are having a blast!"
Kym H-H
"Got to the Aquarium shortly after they opened, on a weekday, and it was quite nice! Price may be a little high, but we'll worth it! We had a stroller for our kids and everything is accessible, if you forgot your stroller they have some there. Kids had a great time and plenty of little shops with snacks and drinks. Definitely an experience to have when you come here to Corpus."
Alan Meeks
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Texas State Aquarium is located at 2710 Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX. It's easily accessible by car and is situated near other attractions like the USS Lexington. Parking is available on-site.
Parking fees may apply, with some reviews mentioning a charge of around $7. It's advisable to check the latest parking information before your visit.
The aquarium is typically open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Splash Park has specific weekend hours. Always check their official website for the most current hours.
While public transportation options might exist, having a car is generally the most convenient way to reach the aquarium and explore Corpus Christi. Ride-sharing services are also an option.
Yes, the Texas State Aquarium is located on the coast in Corpus Christi, offering beautiful bay views and proximity to the Gulf of Mexico.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can be considered expensive by some visitors, but many feel it's worth it for the conservation efforts. Check their official website for current admission prices and potential discounts.
Becoming a member can offer discounts and allow you to skip lines. It's also worth checking for any special promotions or group rates.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time and potentially secure your entry, especially during peak seasons.
The aquarium likely offers group rates for schools and larger parties. It's best to contact their group sales department directly for information.
Refund policies can vary. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions when purchasing tickets online or contact the aquarium directly for specific details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Dolphin Show, the Shark Encounters, the Caribbean Journey for vibrant reefs, and the interactive touch pools. The Splash Park is also a hit for kids. +1
Absolutely! Kids love the Splash Park, the dolphin show, and the interactive exhibits. It's a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Yes, the aquarium hosts various presentations and feeding times throughout the day. Check the schedule upon arrival to catch them.
The aquarium offers unique experiences, including the opportunity to swim with sharks, which is a thrilling adventure for the brave!
Yes, the aquarium is designed to be accessible, and strollers are welcome. Rentals are also available if you need one.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The aquarium has on-site dining options, including restaurants like Canopy and Back Porch, offering a variety of dishes from seafood to sandwiches.
Outside food and drinks policies can vary. It's best to check the aquarium's guidelines on their website or contact them directly to confirm.
Yes, the dining options typically include kid-friendly choices like hot dogs and sandwiches, catering to younger visitors.
Reviews suggest the food is decent, with options like shrimp rolls, gumbo, and gourmet hot dogs. The views from the restaurants are also a highlight.
Yes, there are cafes and snack bars available, offering quick bites and beverages for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The dolphin show area, shark exhibits, and the general aquarium tanks offer fantastic photo opportunities. The bay views are also scenic.
Yes, photography and videography for personal use are generally allowed. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the animals.
While personal photos are encouraged, professional photography or commercial use may require special permits. Always check the aquarium's specific policies.
A camera with good low-light performance is ideal for indoor exhibits. Many visitors use their smartphones, like the iPhone 14 Pro Max, for great shots.
The chance to get close to sharks or capture the dolphins during their show provides unique and memorable photo opportunities. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan your visit around the daily presentation schedule to catch feeding times and educational talks. The aquarium is generally stroller-friendly, making it easier to manage little ones. Consider becoming a member to skip ticket lines, which can be a lifesaver with impatient kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look into membership options if you plan on visiting multiple times, as it can offer significant savings and perks like skipping lines. Packing your own snacks and drinks might also help manage costs, though it's best to check the aquarium's policy on outside food.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The shark exhibits and the Caribbean Journey provide stunning backdrops for capturing marine life. For the best shots, visit during weekday mornings when lighting is often good and crowds are thinner. A camera with good low-light capabilities is recommended for indoor exhibits. Remember to be mindful of flash restrictions to avoid disturbing the animals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conservation and Rescue Efforts
+1This dedication to conservation is a significant aspect of the aquarium's mission. By visiting, you are directly contributing to these efforts, as admission fees help fund their rescue programs and ongoing research. They aim to educate the public about the importance of protecting our oceans and the creatures within them.
Their work extends beyond the aquarium walls, with efforts to release rehabilitated animals back into their natural habitats whenever possible. This commitment makes a visit not just entertaining but also educational and impactful.
Family Fun and the Splash Park
+1Families often highlight the dolphin shows and interactive touch pools as highlights for younger visitors. The aquarium's layout is generally stroller-friendly, making it easier to navigate with little ones.
When planning a family visit, consider bringing swimsuits and towels for the Splash Park, which is typically open on weekends. Checking the daily schedule for presentations and shows will also help maximize the family's experience.
Unique Animal Encounters
+1Beyond sharks, the aquarium is home to a diverse range of species, from playful dolphins to mesmerizing jellyfish and ancient sea turtles. The Dolphin Bay is a popular spot, especially during the engaging dolphin shows that highlight their intelligence and agility.
Visitors often rave about the close-up views of marine life, with many staff members being knowledgeable and passionate about the animals they care for, enhancing the educational aspect of these encounters.
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