DALLAS, TX
🐠 Dallas World Aquarium: Your Guide to Rainforest, Reef & River Life
Explore the Heart of Dallas’s Underwater World
Step beneath the canopy and experience a world where manatees, stingrays, and toucans thrive in a re-created ecosystem of the Orinoco River Basin.
Families love the interactive exhibits and educational talks that bring marine science to life. Whether you’re on a school trip, a weekend vacation, or a date downtown, this aquarium offers a complete immersion into the natural world.
DallasAquariumWorld.com is an independent visitor resource not affiliated with The Dallas World Aquarium Corporation.
Overview
Opened in 1992, the Dallas World Aquarium (DWA) has become one of the city’s most beloved attractions — a fusion of zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden. Its multi-level layout guides visitors from the tree canopy to the ocean floor, featuring rare species like Orinoco crocodiles and leafy sea dragons.
Whether you’re planning a day trip in Dallas, a weekend in Galveston, or a Gulf-coast getaway in Corpus Christi, these cities let you immerse yourself in the magic of the ocean without leaving Texas.
🎟️ Buy Tickets & Save
Plan your visit now and skip the line!
We’ve partnered with trusted travel platforms to bring you verified ticket deals, combo packages, and limited-time discounts.
🎟️ Aquarium Ticket Deals & Combo Passes
Save time and money with these verified partners offering exclusive aquarium tickets and attraction bundles in Dallas.
| Provider | Offer | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Viator | Skip-the-Line Dallas World Aquarium Tickets | Book Now → |
| GetYourGuide | Aquarium Entry + City Combo Pass | Check Availability → |
| CityPASS | Save up to 40% on Dallas Attractions | See CityPASS Options → |
Disclosure: We may earn a small commission from partner links at no extra cost to you. All offers are verified and updated regularly.
💸 Promo Code Tip:
Visit our discounts & promo codes page at save during checkout for an extra 10% off family packages this week.
(Limited-time promotional offer. Availability may vary.)
☀️ Today’s Weather in Dallas
Check Current conditions:
Plan your visit early in the day to enjoy the aquarium before lunch crowds build up. On hot or rainy days, the aquarium’s indoor rainforest provides a perfect all-weather escape.
🧭 Best Time to Visit:
Spring and Fall – comfortable temperatures and fewer visitors.
🏨 Hotels Near Dallas World Aquarium
Find Your Stay Near the Dallas World Aquarium
Stay within walking distance of the action.
Recommended: Omni Dallas Hotel, Hyatt Regency, and AC Hotel Downtown Dallas – all less than a 10-minute drive.
🏨 Compare Hotels Near Dallas World Aquarium
🏠 Browse Vacation Rentals Near Dallas World Aquarium
🌴 Seasonal Highlights
Spring: See nesting birds and active sloths in the Orinoco Rainforest.
Summer: Cool off inside the 150,000-gallon reef tunnel.
Fall: Ideal for combining aquarium visits with nearby festivals.
Winter: Enjoy shorter lines and special holiday displays.
🎓 Educational Spotlight
The Dallas World Aquarium is more than entertainment—it’s an accredited conservation center.
Don’t miss the education zone, where kids can learn about endangered species and ocean protection.
DallasAquariumWorld.com is an independent visitor resource not affiliated with The Dallas World Aquarium Corporation.
Book Tickets & Top Dallas Experiences
Compare skip-the-line passes, combo tickets, and guided tours around Downtown Dallas.
✈️ Book Flights & Hotels for Your Dallas Aquarium Trip
Stay Close to the Action
Choose from pet-friendly, family, and luxury hotels within a short walk of the aquarium. All partner hotels offer flexible cancellation and verified guest reviews.
Flying into Dallas to visit the aquariums and family attractions?
Use the search below to find flight and hotel deals through Expedia – flexible options, top-rated stays, and easy booking all in one place.
We may earn a commission from Expedia Group when you book through links on this page — at no extra cost to you.
7 day forecast:
Plan Your Dallas Aquarium Visit
Today’s Weather in Dallas
Trusted Local Resources
Plan confidently with official guides and respected local sources. These editorial links are independent (not sponsored) and updated frequently.
📸 Plan Your Visit Checklist
- Buy tickets in advance to skip lines
- Bring a light jacket (the rainforest area is humid)
- Arrive early for penguin feeding times
- Explore the gift shop for local souvenirs
- Parking available in nearby garages and surface lots
🐬 Plan Your Day Like a Local
Morning:
- Start with the rainforest walkthrough (watch for the sloth!)
- Attend the 11 a.m. penguin feeding
Afternoon:
- Lunch at the Aquarium Café
- Explore the coral reef tunnel
Evening:
- Walk through the Dallas Arts District or Klyde Warren Park
💡 Insider Tip
Pair your aquarium visit with a CityPASS Dallas to unlock savings at the Perot Museum, Reunion Tower, and Dallas Zoo.
🧭 Compare Dallas Attractions →
DallasAquariumWorld.com is an independent visitor resource not affiliated with The Dallas World Aquarium Corporation.
Location
What Visitors Are Saying
(from Tripadvisor)
Reviews courtesy of Tripadvisor and reflect user satisfaction at the time of embedding.
FAQs
Where is the Dallas World Aquarium located?
The Dallas World Aquarium is located in downtown Dallas at 1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202, in the West End Historic District. It’s easy to reach by car, DART rail, or rideshare from most parts of the city.
What makes the Dallas World Aquarium unique?
Unlike traditional aquariums, the Dallas World Aquarium combines marine life with a replica rainforest ecosystem, featuring manatees, flamingos, monkeys, and free-flying birds. Visitors can explore from the rainforest canopy down to the ocean floor – all indoors, year-round.
How much time should I plan for my visit?
Most guests spend 2–3 hours exploring the aquarium’s rainforest and marine exhibits. Add extra time for the gift shop, in-house restaurant, or nearby attractions like the Perot Museum or Reunion Tower.
Can I buy Dallas World Aquarium tickets online?
Yes – you can purchase skip-the-line tickets and combo experiences through our trusted partner, Viator, for instant confirmation and mobile entry.
🎟️ Book Dallas Aquarium Tickets & Tours →
Are there hotels near the Dallas World Aquarium?
Absolutely. There are several downtown hotels within walking distance, including family, boutique, and luxury options.
🏨 Find Hotels Near the Aquarium →
All Booking.com partners offer verified reviews and flexible cancellation.
What animals can I see at the Dallas World Aquarium?
You’ll encounter a stunning range of wildlife, including:
Rare Orinoco crocodiles
Manatees and stingrays
Leafy sea dragons and seahorses
Sharks and jellyfish
Toucan birds, sloths, and tree frogs
Is the Dallas World Aquarium good for kids?
Yes – it’s one of the most family-friendly attractions in North Texas. Children love the hands-on experiences, colorful exhibits, and rainforest walkthroughs. Be sure to visit early or midweek to avoid crowds.
Does the aquarium have dining or food options?
Yes. The Eighteen-O-One Restaurant, located inside the aquarium, serves sandwiches, salads, and kids’ meals. There are also dozens of local dining options nearby in the West End Historic District.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit is weekday mornings (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) to avoid large groups. Spring break and weekends tend to be busiest.
Still have questions?
Visit our Contact Page or follow us on Instagram @dallasaquariumlife for updates and new aquarium openings.
DallasAquariumWorld.com is an independent visitor resource not affiliated with The Dallas World Aquarium Corporation.