Aquarium On 59 And Beltway 8
Introduction
Aquarium On 59 And Beltway 8 is a world-class aquarium located in Houston, Texas. It is a magical underwater experience that offers visitors a chance to explore the wonders of the ocean. The aquarium is home to thousands of marine animals from all over the world, including sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and many more.
History
The Aquarium On 59 And Beltway 8 was opened to the public in 2003. It was designed by the world-renowned architect, Peter Chermayeff, who is also responsible for other famous aquariums around the world. The aquarium is owned and operated by Landry's Restaurants, Inc., a Houston-based company that specializes in dining, hospitality, and entertainment.
Exhibits
The Aquarium On 59 And Beltway 8 has several exhibits that showcase the different marine animals from all over the world. The main attraction is the 500,000-gallon shark tank, which is home to several species of sharks, including tiger sharks, sand tiger sharks, and blacktip reef sharks. Another popular exhibit is the Stingray Reef, where visitors can touch and feed the stingrays.
The aquarium also has a Rainforest exhibit, which features animals and plants from the Amazon rainforest. Visitors can see various species of birds, reptiles, and fish in this exhibit. The Gulf of Mexico exhibit showcases the marine life found in the Gulf of Mexico, including sea turtles, groupers, and snappers.
Other Attractions
In addition to the exhibits, the Aquarium On 59 And Beltway 8 also has other attractions that visitors can enjoy. The Ferris wheel is a popular ride that offers a stunning view of the city. The Diving Bell Ferris Wheel takes visitors on a ride through the shark tank, while the Lighthouse Dive takes visitors on a virtual underwater journey.
The aquarium also has several restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of dining options. The Downtown Aquarium Restaurant is a fine-dining restaurant that serves seafood, steaks, and other delicious dishes. The Aquarium Cafe offers casual dining options, while the Dive Lounge is a bar that serves cocktails and other drinks.
Visitor Information
The Aquarium On 59 And Beltway 8 is open every day of the week, from 10 am to 9 pm. The admission fee varies depending on the age of the visitor and the type of ticket purchased. The aquarium also offers group rates and annual passes for frequent visitors.
Visitors are advised to dress comfortably and wear appropriate footwear as they will be walking around the aquarium for several hours. The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, and strollers are available for rent. Visitors are also advised to bring a camera to capture the beautiful marine life and the stunning views of the city.
Conclusion
The Aquarium On 59 And Beltway 8 is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and educational experience. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the ocean and see some of the most fascinating marine animals up close. With its world-class exhibits, thrilling rides, and delicious dining options, the aquarium is sure to be a hit with visitors of all ages.