About.com Rating
The Bottom Line
The Dallas World Aquarium houses many animals not often seen in zoos. Viewing them in their natural habitat, even underwater, provides a unique perspective on the animals' lives. I highly recommend the Dallas World Aquarium.
Pros
- Wide variety of animals in their "natural" habitat
- Delicious dining
- Handicapped accessible
Cons
- Not all animals available at all times
- Can be a bit pricey for a family of four plus grandparents
Description
- Hours: 10am-5pm, seven days a week, except Thanksgiving and Christmas. The restaurants keep shorter hours.
- Admission: Adults $18.95, Children 3-12 $10.95, Seniors 60 and older $14.95, Children two and under Free.
- Directions: Going north on I-35 E, exit I-75 N, exit Griffin, turn right. It will be on the right before Ross Avenue.
- Directions: Going south on I-35 E, exit I-45 Houston, exit Griffin, turn right. It will be on the right before Ross Avenue.
- Web Site: Dallas World Aquarium
Guide Review - Dallas World Aquarium
Manatees to macaws, penguins to pacus, the Dallas World Aquarium showcases several hundred animals—some endangered, all unusual—in a series of ecosystems designed to make the animals feel at home. Visitors wind through the exhibits on gently sloped paths with plenty of places for grandparents and toddlers to sit a moment.
Our tour started in the rainforest, although visitors can choose their own paths. The children delighted in spotting as many birds and small mammals as they could.
Colorful and noisy birds hung from vines and perched on a cliffside while tamarins peeked at us from treetops. Manatees swam lazily in the river below. Plenty of hiding places allow the animals to take a break from visitors when they wish, but there was no lack of wildlife to view.
At the top, we met a sleepy sloth who graced us with a brief opening of his eyes. He clung to a tree near one of several serving stations scattered throughout the building where we could purchase drinks. With the okay of his keeper, we patted his wiry fur. The kids asked a few questions, then it was off to the next part of the exhibit.
After winding our way past playful otters, jewel-like frogs, and huge snakes shedding their skins, we sat down to a meal in one of the Aquarium's restaurants. Several large aquariums made up the walls, providing an ever-changing view while we ate. The menu had something for everyone, from picky kids to adventurous eaters.
The Dallas World Aquarium participates in a number of conservation efforts. They also have webcams for you to watch some of the animals without leaving home.