With miles and miles of coastline, it only makes sense that one of the most unique and best aquariums in the country would be based in Texas. The Texas State Aquarium is located in the center of the Texas coast in Corpus Christi. Each year, more than half a million visitors make their way to the aquarium. The aquarium has received the designation of being the ‘Official Aquarium of Texas.’
Visitors will encounter a variety of different displays housing numerous fish that are indigenous to the coastline and particularly the Gulf of Mexico. There are also a few varieties of exotic fish species as well. Numerous daily programs are made available to visitors including Birds of Prey, Reptile Report, Dolphin Presentations, Dive Encounters and You ‘Otter’ Know This. In addition, several special events are held throughout the year at the aquarium, including Sea Camp and Sea Squirt programs.
Summer tends to be the busiest time of year at the aquarium. Weekends tend to be particularly busy as well. The aquarium is open from 9 until 6 daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Throughout the remainder of the year the aquarium is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The aquarium is closed on Christmas and Thanksgiving. Members of the aquarium receive free admission. Regular admission for adults is $13.95, while child admission fro children ages three to twelve is $8.95. Children two and younger are admitted free. Senior citizens age 65 and up receive admission at a discounted price of $11.95. Parking is an additional $3.50.
The Deckside Dolphin Encounter provides the opportunity for guests to interact with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. In addition to feeding these playful creatures, guests will also have the opportunity to play with them. The encounter lasts one hour and includes a commemorative t-shirt. This event is available for guests age 8 and older. The encounter is $85.00 per person.
The Trainer for a Day program offers the opportunity for guests to really get up close and personal with these gentle giants as they work alongside trainers to participate in dolphin presentations. Guests learn valuable information about the types of foods dolphins eat and the methods that are utilized to train dolphins. To participate, visitors must be at least thirteen years of age and be in good physical shape. The ability to swim is also required. The cost of the program is $250.00.
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