Bookable
Your visit, considered
Make room for
a little wonder.
A practical guide to the Downtown Aquarium,
from planning your ticket to finding your way.

Before you go
The details for a good day
Plan your visit to the Downtown Aquarium
Opening times, useful amenities and a few things to know before you arrive.
Opening times
All times are local to Houston.
- Aquarium exhibit
- 10:00–20:30 · Sunday to ThursdayRides open at 10:30
- Aquarium exhibit
- 10:00–22:00 · Friday and SaturdayRides open at 10:30
- Christmas
- Christmas Eve 10:00–19:00 · Christmas Day 12:00–20:00Hours can change without notice
Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.
Finding the aquarium
The Downtown Aquarium is on Bagby Street, on the edge of downtown Houston.
410 Bagby StreetHouston, TX 77002, USA
- By car: the car park behind the building is cashless; pay by scanning the QR code on the signs. Self-parking and valet are available.
- On foot: check the route from your accommodation and allow extra time in warm weather.
- Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.
Useful stops along the way
Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:
- The Aquarium Restaurant, with its own hours and no entrance fee.
- Rides, including the Diving Bell Ferris wheel and the carousel.
- Wheelchair access at all attractions.
- A cashless car park behind the building, with self-parking and valet.
Strollers are parked outside the attractions and not taken into ride lines. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.
A visit that works for you
Wheelchair access is provided at all attractions. Guests with disabilities should speak with a ride attendant before riding, and height checks are made at each ride.
- Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
- Strollers are parked outside the attractions; there is no stroller parking station.
- Ask aquarium staff for assistance or directions during your visit.
Enjoy the aquarium thoughtfully
- Outside food, coolers, bottled water and glass are not allowed in the amusement area.
- Loose articles, such as bags and drinks, cannot be taken past the ride queue entrances.
- Wristbands cannot be transferred to another guest.
- Line jumping and unruly behaviour are not tolerated.
- Follow the signs and staff guidance, including height checks at the rides.
A little care keeps the aquarium calm for the animals and for everyone.
Make time for a pause
The Aquarium Restaurant, built around a 110,000-gallon cylindrical tank, has its own hours and no entrance fee; meals are paid for separately.
- Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
- Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
- Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.
Outside food and drink are not allowed in the amusement area.
A few details worth planning
- Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
- Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
- Start in the right place: follow your ticket’s instructions when you arrive at the aquarium.
- Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes, sun protection and a charged phone make the day easier.
- Leave space to linger: with the day pass, allow time for the Shark Voyage train and the rides as well as the exhibit.
Visitor information checked 10 November 2026. Opening times and facilities can change; follow the date, time and instructions on your issued ticket.

Bring the essentials
Check the current visitor guidance before you travel.
- Comfortable shoes
- Charged phone
- Sun protection
- Your booking details