Dallas World Aquarium: Ultimate 2026 Guide to Hours, Tickets, & Exhibits
The Dallas World Aquarium stands as one of Texas’s most immersive wildlife attractions, blending a massive multi-level rainforest with a world-class aquarium. According to the official Dallas World Aquarium website, the facility has repurposed a 1924 warehouse in the West End into a lush sanctuary for endangered species and vibrant marine life.
Success at the Dallas World Aquarium in 2026 requires understanding current hours, ticket pricing, and the multi-level layout. This resource covers every detail of the facility, including the best time to visit Dallas World Aquarium 2026 to avoid heavy weekend crowds.
Dallas World Aquarium 2026 Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202 |
| 2026 Adult Price | $34.95 + tax |
| Operating Hours | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily) |
| Last Entry | 4:00 PM |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays before 10:30 AM |
| Closest Transit | DART West End Station (3-minute walk) |
Dallas World Aquarium Hours of Operation
The Dallas World Aquarium maintains consistent daily hours to ensure visitors have ample time to explore all three levels of exhibits. For 2026, the facility opens its doors at 8:30 AM and concludes operations at 5:00 PM every day of the week.
The last entry is strictly enforced at 4:00 PM to allow guests at least one hour of viewing time. While the aquarium is open year-round, it remains closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day to allow staff to spend time with their families.
On Christmas Eve, the aquarium typically operates on a reduced schedule with the last entry accepted at 2:00 PM. We recommend arriving early during spring break and summer months, as lines at the entrance can become quite long by midday.
Dallas World Aquarium Tickets and Prices for 2026
If you are wondering how much are tickets to Dallas World Aquarium, the rates have been updated for 2026 to support ongoing conservation efforts. Admission is required for all guests aged three and older, with specialized pricing available for seniors and military personnel.
| Visitor Category | Admission Price (Excl. Tax) |
|---|---|
| Adults (Ages 13–64) | $34.95 |
| Seniors (Ages 65+) | $28.95 |
| Children (Ages 3–12) | $24.95 |
| Children (2 and Under) | FREE |
| Military (Active/Retired + 1 Guest) | $28.95 |
Military discounts are available for both active-duty members and retired veterans, though a valid photo ID must be presented at the ticket window. Please be aware that all prices are subject to state and local sales tax, which is calculated at the time of purchase.
How to Find cheap Dallas World Aquarium Tickets and Coupons
Searching for cheap Dallas World Aquarium tickets and coupons can help reduce the cost of a family outing. One of the most effective methods is purchasing a Dallas CityPASS, which bundles admission to multiple top attractions at a significant discount.
The CityPASS includes entry to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Reunion Tower GeO-Deck alongside the aquarium. This option is frequently featured in our guide to the best Dallas date ideas because it offers a full day of romantic sightseeing at a fraction of the cost.
Annual memberships are another excellent way to save if you plan to visit the aquarium more than twice in a calendar year. An individual membership currently costs $95, providing unlimited entry and a 10% discount at the gift shop and on-site restaurants.
Seasonal Promotions and Group Rates
Keep an eye out for the “Summer Splash Sale” which often runs from June through August, offering up to 30% off select afternoon time slots. During the winter holidays, the “Holiday Cheer” promotion sometimes features buy-one-get-one-free deals on weekday mornings.
Groups of 15 or more can also qualify for discounted rates by booking at least 48 hours in advance through the group sales department. These rates are ideal for school field trips, church groups, and corporate outings looking for a unique venue.
Exploring the Exhibits: A Level-by-Level Guide
The Dallas World Aquarium is uniquely structured so that visitors begin their journey at the top of a rainforest canopy and descend through various ecosystems. This layout mimics the flow of water and life from the treetops down to the ocean floor.
Mundo Maya: The Spirit of Central America
The Mundo Maya exhibit is a massive eight-story installation that showcases the diverse flora and fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula. Here, you can observe American flamingos wading in cenote-inspired pools and ocelots prowling through the jungle foliage.
One of the highlights of this section is the Shark Tunnel, a 40-foot walk-through acrylic tube that puts you inches away from brown sharks and sawfish. The tunnel provides an unobstructed 180-degree view of these apex predators as they glide effortlessly overhead.
Orinoco: Secrets of the River
The Orinoco exhibit focuses on the tropical rainforests of South America, featuring a diverse array of birds in free flight. As you walk across the suspension bridges, look for scarlet ibises and toucans perched in the branches above.
This level is also home to the aquarium’s famous Antillean manatees, which can be viewed from both above and below the water’s surface. These “sea cows” are part of a critical breeding and conservation program aimed at protecting the species in the wild.
Cloud Forest Trek: Dallas World Aquarium three toed sloth exhibit
Opened recently to immense acclaim, the Dallas World Aquarium three toed sloth exhibit is the only public display of these animals in the United States. This high-altitude exhibit replicates the misty environments of the Andes Mountains in South America.
Visitors can watch these slow-moving mammals navigate the canopy alongside colorful Andean cock-of-the-rock birds. The exhibit emphasizes the importance of protecting fragile cloud forest ecosystems from the impacts of climate change and deforestation.
Animal Spotlights: Meet the Residents
The Dallas World Aquarium is home to thousands of animals representing hundreds of species from around the globe. Many Dallas World Aquarium reviews 2026 highlight these immersive Dallas World Aquarium exhibits as some of the best in the country for seeing rare wildlife.
The Antillean Manatee (Ayurami)
Ayurami is perhaps the most beloved resident of the aquarium, serving as an ambassador for her species. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service classifies the West Indian manatee, including the Antillean subspecies, as threatened, making the aquarium’s conservation role particularly critical.
Visitors can often see Ayurami munching on heads of lettuce or floating near the surface of the Orinoco pool. The aquarium’s successful rehabilitation and breeding efforts have made it a world leader in manatee conservation and public education.
The Orinoco Crocodile
Tucked away in the lower levels of the rainforest is the Orinoco crocodile, one of the rarest reptiles in the Western Hemisphere. These massive predators can grow up to 17 feet in length and are distinguished by their relatively long snouts and powerful tails.
The aquarium participates in a specialized breeding program to help replenish wild populations in Colombia and Venezuela. Seeing these prehistoric-looking creatures up close provides a chilling but necessary look at the importance of apex predator conservation.
Black-Footed Penguins
Located in the South Africa exhibit, the colony of black-footed penguins is a favorite among younger visitors. These flightless birds are native to the southwestern coast of Africa and are known for their distinctive “braying” calls that sound similar to a donkey.
The aquarium’s habitat includes a large pool and rocky nesting areas, allowing visitors to watch the penguins dive and interact at high speeds. If you are a fan of these flightless birds, you might also enjoy our comprehensive Fort Worth Zoo guide, which features additional aquatic bird exhibits and conservation stories.
History of the Dallas World Aquarium
The Dallas World Aquarium was established in 1992 by Daryl Sprout and his team within a repurposed 1924 warehouse. As noted by Visit Dallas, the aquarium is a cornerstone of the West End Historic District, helping to revitalize this former industrial hub into a premier tourist destination.
In 1996, the Orinoco exhibit opened, adding 15,000 square feet of rainforest habitat that bridged the gap between land and sea. This was followed by the massive Mundo Maya expansion in 2004, which further cemented the aquarium’s status as a global conservation leader.
The most recent addition, the Cloud Forest Trek, debuted in late 2021 and introduced a three-story vertical habitat dedicated to Andean wildlife. This evolutionary growth reflects the aquarium’s commitment to creating biodiverse environments that educate and inspire.
Global Conservation and Breeding Programs
Beyond being a tourist attraction, the Dallas World Aquarium is a critical center for the propagation of endangered and threatened species. The facility works closely with international governments to rescue and rehabilitate wildlife from across the globe.
Their manatee breeding program is one of the most successful in the world, having seen multiple births of the endangered Antillean manatee in captivity. These calves are often returned to protected waterways or shared with other institutions to ensure genetic diversity.
The aquarium also supports field research in South America and Borneo, providing funding for habitat restoration and local education programs. By visiting the aquarium, you are directly contributing to these vital efforts to preserve our planet’s biodiversity.
Where to park for Dallas World Aquarium and parking prices
Understanding where to park for Dallas World Aquarium and current Dallas World Aquarium parking prices is essential for avoiding stress in Downtown. The DWA Priority Public Parking lot is located right next to the main entrance for those who prioritize proximity.
If you are looking to avoid the hassle of city driving, the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) rail system is a highly recommended alternative. The West End Station is located just three blocks away and serves the Red, Blue, Green, and Orange rail lines.
| Parking Lot Location | Approx. Price | Walking Distance |
|---|---|---|
| DWA Priority Lot (Next Door) | $15.00 | 1 Minute |
| 1914 N Lamar St (Lot 31) | $7.00 | 3 Minutes |
| 540 N Griffin St (Lot 127) | $6.00 | 3 Minutes |
| 1113 Hord St (Lot 30) | $16.00 | 1 Minute |
| Ross Ave Garage (Lot 126) | $15.00 | 3 Minutes |
Metered street parking is also available along Ross Avenue and Laws Street for $0.25 per hour with a 10-hour maximum limit. However, these spots fill up very early in the morning and are often difficult to secure during weekends or special events.
Dining Options Inside the Aquarium
The Dallas World Aquarium offers three distinct dining experiences, ensuring that you don’t have to leave the facility for a meal. Outside food and beverages are strictly prohibited, with the exception of baby formula and breastmilk.
eighteen~O~one Restaurant
Located on the first floor, this upscale dining room serves international gourmet cuisine inspired by reef locations around the world. It is open from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM and is perfect for a seated, relaxed lunch with the family.
Café Maya
Found on the third floor of the Mundo Maya exhibit, Café Maya offers traditional Tex-Mex dishes like street tacos and enchiladas. The restaurant provides direct views of the shark tunnel and flamingo habitat while you eat.
The Jungle Café
For a quicker option, The Jungle Café in the Orinoco exhibit serves deli-style sandwiches, personal pizzas, and fresh salads. This café is open for longer hours, typically from 11:00 AM until 4:00 PM, catering to late-afternoon snackers.
Plan Your Day: A West End Itinerary
To make the most of your visit to the West End Historic District, we have designed a sample itinerary that combines the aquarium with nearby landmarks. If you have an extra day to spare, you can easily combine this trip with the top things to do in Fort Worth to see the full range of the DFW metroplex.
- 8:30 AM: Arrive at the Dallas World Aquarium right at opening to enjoy the exhibits before the crowds arrive.
- 11:30 AM: Enjoy lunch at eighteen~O~one or head to a nearby West End eatery like Gator’s or Ellen’s for brunch.
- 1:30 PM: Walk five minutes to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza to explore Dallas’s most historic site.
- 3:30 PM: Stroll through Founders Plaza and see the John Neely Bryan Cabin for a quick history lesson.
- 5:00 PM: Head to Reunion Tower to catch the sunset and enjoy 360-degree views of the city skyline.
Photography and Social Media Guide
If you are looking for the most “Instagrammable” spots in the aquarium, the Flamingo Cenote in the Mundo Maya exhibit is a top choice. The natural lighting and vibrant pink plumage of the birds create a striking backdrop for portraits.
The walk-through shark tunnel is another iconic photo opportunity, though capturing clear shots requires a steady hand and high ISO settings. We recommend using a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the sharks as they swim overhead.
Remember that flash photography is prohibited, so aim to use the available natural light from the glass ceilings during the morning hours. The cloud forest walkway also offers unique perspectives of the mist-filled Andean habitat that look impressive in vertical video formats.
Accessibility and Special Accommodations
The Dallas World Aquarium is committed to providing an accessible experience for all visitors, including those with physical or sensory disabilities. The entire facility is wheelchair accessible, with elevators conveniently located in each major exhibit wing.
For visitors with sensory sensitivities, we recommend visiting during the “Early Bird” hours between 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays. This is typically the quietest time of day, allowing for a more serene and less crowded exploration of the rainforest habitats.
Restrooms with baby-changing stations are available on every level, and a dedicated nursing room is located near the main entrance for parents. Service animals are permitted in most areas, though they must remain on a leash or harness at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dallas World Aquarium worth visiting?
Most visitors find the aquarium highly worth the price due to its unique multi-level design and rare species like the three-toed sloth. If you plan to dine at one of the on-site restaurants, we suggest budgeting at least four hours for your total visit.
Is the Dallas World Aquarium mostly indoors?
Yes, the entire facility is climate-controlled and indoors, making it an ideal destination for rainy days or escaping the Texas summer heat. The massive glass ceilings allow for natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere in the rainforest sections.
Can I bring my own food to the Dallas World Aquarium?
Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium. However, there are numerous picnic tables available at nearby Dealey Plaza if you prefer to pack a lunch and eat outside the facility.
Is the Dallas World Aquarium wheelchair accessible?
The Dallas World Aquarium is fully accessible with elevators serving all three levels of exhibits. Dedicated viewing areas are also provided at the larger tanks to ensure everyone has a clear view of the marine life.
For thrill-seekers looking for a different kind of adventure after their downtown tour, we recommend reading our list of the best amusement parks in Texas to find the most exciting roller coasters in the state.
