Texas State Aquarium – Complete Family Guide

 
Located in Corpus Christi, Texas, United States; the Texas State Aquarium was established in 1990 as a non-profit organization that works towards conservation and rehabilitation of marine life in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.
 
It is the largest aquarium in Texas and also one of the biggest in the United States. It has a wide variety of sea animals, plants and wildlife showcased beautifully through its exhibits, live shows and events.
 
Besides appreciating the magnificent sights of Texas State Aquarium, marine enthusiasts can also learn and get hands-on experience through its volunteer programs and internships. So all those wanting to experience the enchanting world of underwater and the wildlife, dive in and relish the astounding multimedia marine-life experience.
 
To know more about it you can follow them on Texas State Aquarium facebook. It gives you regular updates on the events and performances and you can also see beautiful Texas State Aquarium pictures that are sure to entice you into visiting the aquarium.
 
Click here to know more https://www.facebook.com/TXStateAquarium/. They also have an official website – Texas State Aquarium.org giving details on the current jobs, ticket prices and enticing Texas State Aquarium photos.
 
What makes Texas State Aquarium special?
 
Unlike a regular aquarium that only has a great number of sea animals exhibits, this aquarium has a plethora of activities taking place all the time. These shows and events make the aquarium come alive. It also works as a venue to celebrate special days like birthdays and weddings and offers customized services to enthrall large groups. Let’s find out what gives Texas State Aquarium its unique character.
 

1. Texas State Aquarium dollar days

 
There are a plethora of activities, shows and performances planned every day at the aquarium and each of these comes at a cost in addition to the admission price. However, to make things more affordable for people, the aquarium comes up with special dollar days wherein the prices of the tickets drop down significantly.
 
Such days are far and few between but you must grab them as they come up. For instance, at times it comes up with Texas State Aquarium $1 day or Texas State Aquarium $2 day, wherein the prices fall down to such a minimal amount. You can check out Texas State Aquarium dollar days 2019 to understand it better.
 
The schedule is put up on the official website for visitors to get details of the events planned for that day. Get a list of Texas State Aquarium dollar days 2020 from the website too.
 

2. Texas State Aquarium 4d theater

 
It is a great feeling to watch sea animals in real life but to feel them crawling on you and water being splashed around you, is another experience altogether. Get ready to see and feel all of it and more at the Texas State Aquarium 4d theater.
 
The state-of-the-art technology and deadly special effects enthrall and entertain visitors in the most fun way. Get up close and personal with a shark in the Shark 4-D Experience or be a part of an adventure story under water in The Deep 4D: Mystery of the Ancient Amulet . All the shows last for 20 minutes and come at no additional cost.
 

3. Texas State Aquarium water park

 
Beat the Texan heat at the Texas State Aquarium H-E-B splash park, a marine-themed park with amazing interactive water features, jet sprays, water cannons, slides and more.
 
There is no additional payment needed for the entry to the Texas State Aquarium splash pad. However, at present the park is working at 50% capacity in line with the COVID – 19 norms. So reserve a place at the earliest. 
 

4. Texas State Aquarium wildlife rescue

 
The aquarium primarily works towards conservation and rehabilitation of marine life. It has a special Wildlife Rescue Center that works relentlessly towards rehabilitating sea animals and returning them to their natural habitat.
 
Every year they save numerous threatened and endangered species that have been impaired due to a disease, predators or natural calamities.
 
For this endeavor, the aquarium is looking at donations and sponsorship from people at all times. Texas State Aquarium beach ball sponsor is one such way in which you can make a valuable contribution towards saving marine life. Click here to get detailed information about it. 
 

5. Texas State Aquarium summer camp

 
Educating the young minds and making them mindful towards conserving marine life is an important part of the aquarium. To fulfill this commitment it holds summer camps for children every year where they are taught about wildlife and how to appreciate it.
 
At these summer camps children work with professionals to get hands-on experience of meeting animals, feeding them and caring for them. They have fun activities like creative play, storytelling and a trip to the H-E-B Splash Park. You can get information about Texas State Aquarium summer camp 2020 from their official website.
 

6. Texas State Aquarium after dark

 
If you want to experience marine life at night, then visit the aquarium in the after dark hours. The aquarium has special days in a month for this activity, where it is open until 9 pm. You can get a chance to discover sharks after sunset, watch the dolphins play and see the nocturnal activities of the sea animals in all its glory. 
 
The prices for this event are  $19.95 adults, $14.95 children. However, owing to COVID -19 regulations July and August events for Aquarium After Dark were canceled. Visit the website for the latest updates.
 

7. YouTube

How much does it cost to go to the Texas State Aquarium?

 
Prices for Texas State Aquarium are quite reasonable with many discounts and offers on at all times. Texas State Aquarium prices for adults between 13 – 65 is $31.95, for children between ages 3-12 years is $21.95 and for children less than 2 years it is free.
 
All tickets are non-refundable and are valid for 60 days after the purchase. In case you buy the tickets online there is a $5 discount.
 

Texas State Aquarium tickets discount

 
Many categories of tickets for Texas State Aquarium are available at discounted prices. For instance, for military personnel, students and senior citizens (above 65 years), the ticket price is $29.95. You can use the discount code for Texas State Aquarium that some vendors offer to get these discounts.
 
For instance, Groupon for Texas State Aquarium has special packages and prices with a Texas State Aquarium discount code that can be availed. You can read about the Texas State Aquarium discount code 2019 to understand it better.
 

 Where to buy Texas State Aquarium tickets?

 
You can buy the tickets online through their official website and get a $5 discount or even book it at the venue itself. However, given the COVID -19 social distancing norms, it is best to book the tickets online.
 
 

Texas State Aquarium membership

 
If you want to reduce the Texas State Aquarium cost, it is best to take membership of the aquarium. There are different categories of memberships depending on your family size and requirement. For instance, to buy membership for a single person the price is $34.00, for two it is $74.00, 3-5 members – $99.00. Children 2 years and below have free entry.
 
You can use the Texas State Aquarium membership discount code to avail all the benefits. The Texas State Aquarium membership benefits include-
 

• Free Texas State Aquarium admission for a year
• Free parking
• Discounts when you purchase anything at the Gift Shop
• Discounts on tickets for the 150 AZA reciprocal zoos and aquariums
• Discounts in Texas State Aquarium food 
• Discount of $5 for adults in the general admission tickets category and $4 for military personnel, senior citizen and child admission
• Discounts on Birthday Parties
• Subscription to the digital magazine, Star
• Discounts on special events and encounters such as Discover Dolphins and Feed the Fish

Texas State Aquarium coupons

 
To make the pricing more attractive, vendors offer different coupons for Texas State Aquarium. For instance, Texas State Aquarium Groupon gives you a chance to visit the aquarium at discounted prices with a lucrative package deal.
 
All you have to do is give the Texas State Aquarium coupon code at the venue and avail all benefits. You can check out Texas State Aquarium coupons 2019 to know more about it.
 
However, ensure that you have verified coupons with an authentic promo code for Texas State Aquarium. It is always best to read reviews about the vendors selling the coupons before purchasing any.
 

 Texas State Aquarium events

 
Texas State Aquarium makes for a great family time activity with so many exhibits to see and animal encounters to experience. You can pick up Texas State Aquarium tickets for these events and shows at the counter or even online. Let’s find out more about some of the exciting events that take place at the aquarium.
 
 

1. Texas State Aquarium wedding and birthday party

http://www.heidiraephotos.com/texas-state-aquarium-wedding/
Image Source: heidiraephotos
 
Celebrate the most important day of your life with dolphins and sharks at the aquarium and make it a memory for a lifetime. You can go in with their regular wedding plan with catering and decor services or upgrade it to include a dolphin show and creature feature, all within a comfortable budget.
 
Make your child’s birthday an unforgettable event celebrating it amongst fish, coral reefs, the dense jungle and more. Texas Aquarium birthday parties are a whole lot of fun for both kids and adults. Depending on your budget, you can include many events and shows in it with catering included.
 

2. Texas State Aquarium dolphin show

 

 
Watch the Atlantic bottle-nose dolphins above water performing aerial antics from the 400,000-gallon saltwater exhibit or the 12 foot-deep saltwater pool in the Texas State Aquarium dolphins show. This show lasts about 20 minutes.
 

3. Wild Flight show

 
The Texas State Aquarium animals are a delight to watch and when they perform especially for you the excitement reaches an all together new level. In this thrilling show, watch birds of prey like hawks and falcons flying just above your head as you sit in an open-air theater. Lasting 15-20 minutes, this show is sure to get you on the edge of your chair. 
 

4. Dive show

 
In this exciting show lasting 20 minutes, you can watch a diver go deep into the magnificent world of coral reef and feed the deadly sharks and other sea animals.
 

5. Animal Encounter

 
Have a rendevouz with the resident animals of the aquarium during this special encounter event. In this 30-minute session you can choose between Snake, Alligator, Military Macaw, Jellies and many others.The first animal costs $175 while you need to pay $100 for each subsequent one.  
 

6. Texas State Aquarium memorial day

 
Every year the aquarium celebrates memorial day through a weekend full of activities. Have gallons of fun at the H-E-B splash park, the 4D theater and many other events at discounted prices.
 

7. Texas State Aquarium valentines dinner 

 
Make your partner feel special this valentine with a dinner in unique surroundings amongst fish, coral reefs and azure blue waters. The Texas State Aquarium restaurant offers a special dining experience on this day for lovers at affordable prices.
 
Find out more about the Texas State Aquarium upcoming events on their official website.
 

Texas State Aquarium Encounters

 
For all those who want to see what goes on behind the scenes and get up close and personal with the sea animals, there are special encounters that you can participate in. Let’s have a look at the options.
 

1. Texas Aquarium sloth meet and greet

 
Meet the adorable Texas State Aquarium sloth and learn what it likes to feed on. You will be introduced to the two sloths at the aquarium Xena or Chico and may be feed them too.
 
You will be educated about their habitat and why it is important to conserve them. The price of the Texas State Aquarium sloth encounter is $74.95 per person, excluding admission. There can be a maximum of 6 people in a group and every child between 6-12 years needs to be accompanied by an adult.Children below 6 years of age are not permitted.
 

2. Feed the Fish

 
Go backstage with the Animal Care staff at the aquarium to see how all the sea animals are fed, cleaned and looked after. Get a chance to feed some of the fish and learn about their habitat.
 
This encounter is priced at $49.95 per person, plus admission with a maximum 6 people in a group. Children between 6-12 years need to be accompanied by an adult. Children below 6 years of age are not permitted.  
 

3. Discovering Dolphins

 
In this friendly encounter you can learn all about this beautiful creature and how they are trained and fed. You also get to meet each dolphin and learn about their nature in a special dolphin session.
 
Priced at $119.95 per person, plus admission, this experience is worth every dollar spent. Here only children above 8 years of age are allowed and those between 8-12 years need to be accompanied by an adult.
 

Texas State Aquarium exhibits

 
With over 20 exhibits spread across the aquarium you have more than a day’s worth of sea animals to see and experience. Each exhibit has been made keeping in mind the natural environment of the animals and offers perfect viewing for visitors. Often,
 
The Texas State Aquarium comes with a new exhibit, in the endeavor to save and rehabilitate more aquatic life. Let’s explore some of the popular exhibits at the aquarium.
 

1. Blue hole

 
Get a sneak peek into the unseen habitat of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and the marine life teeming underneath. From nurse sharks, tarpon to other amazing creatures swim around in the dark spaces while aquatic plants and sand provide for a great camouflage. Sit right in the center of the exhibit and you will feel you are in the middle of the Caribbean blue hole.
 

2. Coral reef

 
Be mesmerized by the world of beautiful Caribbean coral reefs in South Texas. The incredible ecosystem that exists with the colorful fish amidst it, makes it look stunning. You can find vibrantly colored fish here, including butterfly fish, angle fish grunts and more. They all live in this marvelous underwater landscape in perfect harmony.
 

3. Jungle

 
Get captivated by the different geography and animal life of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve in the Mexican Eastern Yucatan Peninsula. With a wide array of flora and fauna thriving here, this exhibit is a great gateway to a world of animals like flamingos,tortoises, shorebirds among the underwater roots of the mangrove forest.
 

4. Caribbean Sea

 
Watch the most deadly creatures of the sea swim across in this exhibit with the experience of a real-life Caribbean shipwreck without getting wet. In this Texas State Aquarium sharks exhibit you can see reef sharks parading around through the 68 foot-long acrylic window. You can also see the huge Spanish galleon shipwreck, which is a relic of the Caribbean’s history 
 

5. Aquatic Nursery

 
Have a glimpse into ocean life in its earliest forms through birth cycles of the cuttlefish, bamboo shark eggs. The high-tech Texas State Aquarium webcam shows us the microscopic life before it enters the world. You are also taught about the need for conservation and how aquaculture is needed to maintain the life balance in the ocean.
 

6. Stingray Lagoon

 
In this interactive exhibit get a chance to touch some of the deadly sea creatures such as Atlantic stingrays, Southern stingrays and cownose rays. You are also allowed to feed them and get a close look at their beautiful anatomy.
 

7. Saving sharks

 
This exhibit shows how the daredevils of the ocean are threatened by humans in real life. Learn about how to protect this species and see the life-size replica of a great white shark. You can also step into the jaws of the prehistoric Megalodon. If you have the heart, you can also touch some of the live sharks.  
 

8. Islands of steel

 
This is the largest indoor exhibit in Texas with 125,000 gallons of water and a plethora of marine life living in it, including tiger sharks, stingrays and many other varieties of fish. It is made around a decommissioned oil platform under the Rigs to Reefs program and shows how rigs are a great platform for sea life to thrive 
 

9. Tentacles

 
Go deep into the ocean where sunlight does not reach but there is a wide range of aquatic live thriving. You can find many tentacled creatures residing here including cuttlefish. The main attraction of the exhibit is the giant Pacific octopus that changes colors and looks magnificent in the iridescent light of the moon jellies.
 

10. Swamp Tales

 
It is a makeshift forest wetland to keep turtles and alligators happy and safe. You can see many wetland species here that are endangered like the Texas Diamondback Terrapin, Red-Eared Slider and others. 
 

11. Nearshore

 
Meet the aquatic life near the shoreline where sand dunes and mangroves merge creating a beautiful marine habitat for shellfish, crustaceans and insects. You can also find freshwater species like catfish and largemouth bass along with spotted sea trout and southern stingrays.
 

12. Living Shores

 
Touch and feel some of the innocent small invertebrates that are found in the shallow waters of the Laguna Madre and Padre Island bays. These harmless creatures are found hiding behind rocks and tide pools. The staff educates you about their lifestyle and feeding habits.
 
Some of the commonly found creatures in this exhibit include; blue crabs, shrimp, horseshoe crabs, pencil urchins and lightning whelks 
 

13. Eagle Pass

 
Replicating the habitat of a West Texas rock canyon, this exhibit has  to make it a natural home for eagles.
 

14. Otter Creek

 
Replicating a typical Texas river bed, this exhibit is home to two North American river otters – Merlin and Arrie. There are many swimming areas, plants and greenery to make them feel at home 
 

Texas State Aquarium gift shop

 
Pick up souvenirs and gifts from the Texas State Aquarium gift shop as a remembrance of your trip to this beautiful aquarium. From fish printed crockery clothes to soft toys and more; you will get a wide variety of choices. Now you can also order the gifts online from the online store and have it delivered to your doorstep.
 

Texas State Aquarium hours

 
Texas State Aquarium works daily with holidays only on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas. Texas State Aquarium hours of operation are daily 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Labor Day through March 1) and 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (March 1 through Labor Day).
 

Texas State Aquarium jobs

 
Whether you want to get into animal care, food service, housekeeping or any other area, Texas State Aquarium employment opportunities are plenty.
 
All of them require skills to engage with animals and be aware of conservation. Texas State Aquarium careers will not only give you a boost in your resume but also make you a better human being.
 
You can reach out to the Texas State Aquarium human resources team to know more about the job openings or check for them online.
 
If you are not sure about the working life in the aquarium but have the interest and the inclination to conserve sea life, then you can also apply for a Texas State Aquarium internship.
 
It will give you hands-on experience of the job and also help learn a new skill set. You can check for the latest jobs and internship opportunities on the official website.
 

 Texas State Aquarium volunteer

 
The aquarium is always on the lookout for young, enthusiastic people who have the will and desire to conserve wildlife. There are many volunteer programs planned all the time.
 
You do not need the skill or an educational background in this field. All you require is the heart to conserve and preserve the beautiful aquatic life. As a volunteer you get many freebies such as free admission, discounts at the gift shop, opportunity to earn a membership and much more.
 

Is Texas State Aquarium open

 
Yes, the aquarium is open and is following all the necessary COVID – 19 guidelines. However, it is working at 50% capacity so if you plan to visit the aquarium you should book your space in advance.
 

Where is Texas State Aquarium?

 
The aquarium is located in Corpus Christi, Texas, United States. It is approximately 12 k.m. from Corpus Christi International Airport.
 
There are many modes of convenience to take you from the airport to the aquarium. You can either book a cab or take a shuttle service. Bus lines 76 and 78 stop closest to the aquarium.
 
If you are driving from Corpus Christi, the directions to Texas State Aquarium are simple. Take Highway 181 North and get on the Harbor Bridge exit. After that take the first exit to Corpus Christi Beach and make a right turn on Burleson Street. Keep going till you reach the first stop sign and then take a right onto Surfside and keep driving till you see the blue sign of the aquarium. 
 
In case, you are driving from Portland, take Highway 181 South towards Corpus Christi. Before taking the Harbor Bridge get on the Burleson Street exit and take the left underneath the overpass. Reach the first stop sign and take a right on Surfside and keep going till you see the sign board of the aquarium. 
 
To know the exact location, follow the Texas State Aquarium map given on the website. You can also call Texas State Aquarium phone number – +1-800-477-GULF. Texas State Aquarium address is 2710 N. Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78402
 

Texas State Aquarium parking

 
The aquarium provides parking facilities at various locations near the venue at $5 per vehicle There are special parking spots for those with special needs.
 

Hotels near Texas State Aquarium

 
There many great options for lodging near the aquarium. Here is a list of luxury, mid-range and budget hotels all within walking distance from the aquarium. All these Texas State Aquarium hotels have comfortable staying arrangements with basic facilities.
 

1. Omni Corpus Christi Hotel

Looking for a comfortable yet affordable place to stay near Texas State Aquarium Texas, then look no further than Omni Corpus Christi Hotel. With all the basic room facilities, many options for dining, pool and valet parking, it is one of the best options if you are on a tight budget. It is priced at $125 per night.
 

2. Radisson Hotel Corpus Christi Beach

 
An affordable yet luxurious place to stay near Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi, Radisson Hotel is a great option. Located less than a kilometer away from the aquarium it makes commuting to and fro from the hotel effortless. Each room is equipped with a private balcony, room service and more to make your stay absolutely comfortably. It is priced at $110 per night.
 

3. Knights Inn Hotel

 
Priced at $106 per night, this hotel is about 1 k.m. from Texas State Aquarium USS Lexington. Located just across the beautiful Corpus Christi Beach, the guests can easily stroll to the beach and spend time admiring the ocean or enjoy a pleasurable time at the outdoor pool. The rooms are equipped with all the basic facilities with great dining options at the hotel. 
 

4. Emerald Beach Hotel

 
Located at a 10 minute walking distance from Texas State Aquarium Corpus Christi, the Emerald Beach Hotel offers a stunning view of the ocean. It is priced at $150 per night.
 

5. Residence Inn by Marriott Corpus Christi Downtown

 
Equipped with modern amenities and contemporary room decor, this hotel makes for a great stay when you want to visit Texas State Aquarium Corpus Christi TX 78402. Priced at $220 per night for a room, it is a mid-range hotel offering luxurious rooms and additional facilities like spa services, swimming pool and much more.
 
You can avail great Texas State Aquarium hotel packages at these hotels. Please note that the hotel tariffs listed above are tentative. These prices are subject to change.
 

Restaurants near Texas State Aquarium

 
If you want to eat some good grub while staying near the Texas State University Aquarium, you will be spoilt for choice. There is a wide array of options and each is better than the other.
 

• Harrison’s Landing – Great seafood and ambience
• Pier 99 – Try out the all- American food here
• Hester’s Cafe – A great breakfast place
• Yo Philly Cheesesteak and Subs – Delicious steaks and sandwiches
• Blackbeard’s on the Beach – Try out their seafood

Other attractions in the vicinity

 
Corpus Christi is a great holiday destination with a lot of places to visit and things to do. If you have the luxury of time and energy after visiting the aquarium thoroughly, do try to see these places.
 

• USS Lexington Museum on the Bay
• Corpus Christi Harbor Bridge
• The Art Museum of South Texas
• Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
• Bayfront Park
• Hurricane Alley Waterpark

Conclusion

 
Traverse through a spell-binding aquatic journey from the shore to the depths of the Gulf of Mexico at the Texas State Aquarium. See beautiful sea animals through more than 20 exhibits, experience animal feeding, dive shows, training sessions and get hands-on experience with the beasts of the ocean.
 
With more than 300 species of sea animals displayed through educational and entertaining exhibits, you are sure to get enchanted and entertained.
 
Read up on Texas State Aquarium reviews to know more from people who have visited the aquarium. 
 
For those committed to conservation and rehabilitation of wildlife, you have a unique chance to work for the aquarium through its volunteer programs and internships.
 
While those of you wanting to take it up professionally there are numerous job offerings at the aquarium. 
 
With so much to see and a lot to do, Texas State Aquarium is surely one of the best aquariums in the United States that is working dedicatedly towards preserving marine life and at the same time offering an entertaining and educational experience to people. So if you are in Texas or plan to visit soon, a trip to Texas State Aquarium is a must-do!