Texas State Aquarium

The Texas State Aquarium was established in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1972. It began as a modest facility with a few exhibits and an emphasis on marine life education.

The aquarium added a dolphin exhibit in the 1980s, which became a popular attraction. Eventually, the dolphins were retired, and the exhibit was converted into a shark tank, which now houses a diversity of species, including blacktip, bonnethead, and nurse sharks.

The aquarium underwent a significant renovation and expansion in the 1990s, adding new exhibits and facilities. The most recent addition was the 2017 opening of the Caribbean Journey exhibit, which features a diversity of Caribbean animals and habitats.

Its emphasis on conservation and sustainability is one of the aquarium's distinguishing characteristics. The aquarium has several programs to promote awareness and education about marine conservation, including its 'Saving Wildlife' program, which concentrates on rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sea turtles and other marine animals that are injured or ill.

The aquarium has incorporated environmentally friendly practices, including the use of energy-efficient lighting and water-saving technologies, in its operations. Additionally, it has a recycling program to reduce waste and conserve resources.

The Texas State Aquarium is a leader in promoting conservation and sustainability in the community, in addition to being an enjoyable and entertaining destination.

The aquarium is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Entrance prices differ based on age and whether tickets are purchased online in advance or at the door. They also offer discounts for senior citizens, minors, and military personnel.

Things to do at The Texas State Aquarium

Explore the exhibits: There are several interior and outdoor exhibits at the aquarium, such as the Gulf of Mexico exhibit, the Caribbean Journey exhibit, and the Dolphin Bay exhibit. Visitors can observe numerous marine species, including sharks, sea turtles, dolphins, and stingrays.

Participate in an Interactive Experience: The aquarium provides a variety of interactive experiences, such as the Dolphin Encounter, where guests can get up close and personal with the resident dolphins. In addition, the aquarium offers Behind-the-Scenes Tours, during which visitors can learn about the aquarium's operations and view areas not ordinarily open to the public.

Attend a Show or Presentation: The aquarium offers a variety of daily performances and presentations, including the Hawn Wild Flight Theater, where visitors can observe a variety of birds of prey in action, and the Wild Flight Feeding Show, where they can witness the aquarium's resident birds feeding.

Click pictures with Dolphin Bay: The Dolphin Bay exhibit at the aquarium allows visitors to observe and photograph the resident dolphins up close. For a closer look, visitors can capture photos from the observation deck or participate in the Dolphin Encounter interactive experience.

Shop for souvenirs: The aquarium's gift shop sells a variety of mementos, including T-shirts, plush animals, and other marine-themed merchandise. Which can be purchased for long-lasting memories of the trip to The Texas State Aquarium.