Visit Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park

Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park
#42 of 100 things to do in Dallas

Dallas, Texas is home to a beloved family tradition that has been captivating young minds for over 85 years: the Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park . Since opening its doors in 1936 as part of the Texas Centennial Exposition, it has become the first public aquarium in the state of Texas . Today, this iconic destination has been reimagined as a hands-on, interactive wonderland where kids can touch, feel, and discover the magic of the underwater world .

Whether you are a local family looking for a fun weekend activity, a tourist exploring Fair Park, or a group planning a special celebration, this guide provides everything you need for a memorable visit.

Key Details at a Glance:

• Location: 1462 1st Ave, Dallas, TX 75210 (Fair Park) 

• Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM) 

• Phone: 469-554-7340 

• Admission: Paid, with discounts available for children and free entry for children 2 and under

Hours of Operation & Admission

Opening Hours

The aquarium welcomes visitors daily, making it easy to plan a visit any day of the week.

Holiday Closures: The aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Ticket Prices

General admission tickets allow access to all galleries, exhibits, and interactive experiences . Most visits last around 1-2 hours, making it a perfect adventure for young attention spans.

Group Discounts: Discounted rates are available for groups of 20 or more when tickets are purchased together. Advance reservations and prepayment are required.

Interactive Exhibits & Activities for All Ages

The Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park is designed to be a “hands-on, hands-wet” experience . It features six exhibit zones, each offering a unique glimpse into aquatic life from around the world.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For the Whole Family: Must-See Exhibits

1. Stingray Bay: This outdoor pavilion is a highlight of the aquarium. Families can feed and interact with cownose rays in a touch pool . It’s an unforgettable experience where kids can feel the smooth, velvety texture of these gentle creatures.

2. Touch Tank: Get even more hands-on with horseshoe crabs, sea urchins, and starfish in the indoor touch tank . Kids and adults alike will enjoy feeling their unique textures and learning about these cool creatures.

3. Freshwater Animals: Explore the lakes, ponds, and rivers of the world. Look for fascinating axolotls, blind cavefish, caiman lizards, and Australian rainbows.

4. Saltwater Animals: Discover the most unusual creatures that live in the ocean’s deepest depths. Visit the Indo-Pacific Reef, meet fish with teeth, and say hello to the zebra sharks as they lounge in their habitat.

5. Shark Habitat: Watch black-tip reef sharks and other fishy friends swim in the large outdoor shark habitat near Stingray Bay . The Offshore Zone also features blacktip sharks, porcupinefish, and laced morays.

6. Animal Ambassadors: Look for opportunities to meet specially trained animal ambassadors. Alongside expert staff, these creatures help teach important lessons about wildlife and conservation in a fun and engaging way.

👧 For Children & Families: Beyond the Exhibits

1. Mine for Gems & Fossils: In addition to the animal exhibits, the aquarium offers a mining activity where kids can search for gems and fossils.

2. Special Events: The aquarium hosts fun events throughout the year. For example, Shark Weekend offers a themed experience with special activities . Check the website’s events calendar for current offerings.

3. Birthday Parties & Private Events: Celebrate a “shell-abration” with party packages that can include private party rooms, stingray feedings, and up-close animal encounters . The aquarium is available for after-hours events from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. for private and exclusive rentals.

4. Summer & Winter Day Camps: The aquarium hosts day camps for children in grades Pre-K to 5, offering an immersive educational experience.

A Rich History: From 1936 to Today

The Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park opened in 1936 as part of the Texas Centennial Exposition, making it the first public aquarium in Texas . The original building is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture, adding to the historical and aesthetic appeal of Fair Park.

In 2010, the aquarium underwent an $8 million renovation, modernizing its exhibits . After a temporary closure during the COVID-19 pandemic, the aquarium was purchased by the zoOceanarium Group in 2021 and reopened on September 24, 2021, with new and improved exhibits . Today, it continues its legacy as a beloved Dallas family tradition, inspiring a lifelong love of oceans, rivers, and lakes.

Location, Parking & Getting There

🚗 Driving & Parking

Address for GPS: 1462 1st Ave, Dallas, TX 75210 

• Free, Up-Close Parking: The aquarium offers easy, up-close parking that makes your visit simple from the moment you arrive.

• Fair Park Access: The aquarium is conveniently located within Fair Park, near landmarks like the Giant Ferris Wheel and the Fair Park Band Shell.

🚆 Public Transportation

• DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit): Fair Park is accessible via DART light rail and bus routes. The Fair Park Station on the Green Line is a short walk from the aquarium.

Accessibility

• The aquarium’s website indicates a commitment to web accessibility and encourages users to report any issues. For physical accessibility needs, contact the aquarium directly.

Tips for Your Visit

1. Plan for 1-2 Hours: The aquarium is designed to be a perfect adventure that keeps kids engaged without overwhelming them.

2. Bring Your Camera: You’ll want to capture the excitement on your child’s face as they touch a stingray or see a shark up close.

3. Consider an Annual Pass: If you live locally, an annual pass offers unlimited visits and pays for itself after just a few trips.

4. Book Birthday Parties in Advance: The aquarium’s party packages are popular. Reservations are only accepted online, and spots fill up quickly.

5. Check for Field Trip Discounts: If you are visiting with a large group (20+), be sure to inquire about discounted group rates.

6. Arrive Early: While the aquarium is open until 5:00 PM, the last admission is at 4:30 PM. Arriving early gives you plenty of time to explore all the exhibits.

Stay Connected:

Follow the Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park to stay updated on new exhibits, special events, and seasonal activities.

• Official Website: https://www.childrensaquarium.com/

• Instagram: @childrensaquariumdallas for a look at the animals and fun activities.

If you have any experience with this place, please share it with us in the comments below!

Children's Aquarium, 1462, 1st Avenue, Fair Park, Dallas, Dallas County, Texas, 75210, Statele Unite ale Americii