Can kids touch animals at Austin Aquarium?

Yes, Austin Aquarium is known for its hands-on experiences. Stingray touch tanks are included with admission. Lorikeet feeding and some other animal encounters are available for an additional fee.

How long does a visit to Austin Aquarium take?

Most families spend 1.5–2.5 hours at Austin Aquarium. The facility is compact enough to see everything comfortably without rushing.

Is Austin Aquarium worth visiting for teenagers?

Austin Aquarium is best suited for children ages 2–12. Older teens may find it less engaging than larger facilities, though the shark tunnel and exotic species can hold anyone's attention.

Austin Aquarium

Name: Austin Aquarium
Address: 13530 US-183 #101, Austin, TX, 78750, US
Telephone: +1 512-222-5586
Rating: 4.1

1 / 5

Rating

4.1(8,985)

Family of 4

$80–$120 for a family of 4.

Duration

1.5–2.5 hours

Best Ages

2–14

About

Austin Aquarium on the north side of Austin distinguishes itself from traditional aquariums through its emphasis on hands-on animal interaction. Visitors can touch stingrays in an open touch tank, walk through an underwater shark tunnel, hold parrots in the bird room, feed nectar to lorikeets (add-on), and see hundreds of species of fish, reptiles, and invertebrates throughout the exhibit halls. The relatively compact size of the facility means families can see everything in a comfortable 1.

5–2. 5 hour visit without exhaustion. Children in particular love the interactive format — the stingray touch tank alone draws kids back repeatedly.

The aquarium is fully indoors and climate-controlled, making it an excellent choice for Austin's hot summers or rainy days. Admission prices are mid-range, and the online ticketing discount makes advance purchase worthwhile.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Nursing / Changing

true

Kid Meals

true

Setting

Indoor

Rainy Day

Great option!

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings for smallest crowds; avoid weekend afternoons when it gets very busy

Wait Times

Minimal waits on weekdays; busy on weekends and school holidays

Nearby Food

The aquarium has a snack area. US-183 North near Lakeline is loaded with dining options including chain restaurants and local spots at Lakeline Mall.

Why Kids Love It

Austin Aquarium is a hands-on, interactive aquarium where kids can touch stingrays, hold parrots, feed lorikeets, and get face-to-face with sharks through tunnel exhibits. Unlike large formal aquariums, Austin Aquarium lets children get up close with animals in a relaxed, approachable environment.

Pro Tips from Parents

The touch tank stingray encounter is free with admission — kids go back multiple times
The lorikeet feeding is an add-on but completely worth it — birds land on your arms and kids absolutely love it
Arrive at open on weekdays to get through the most popular exhibits without waiting
The shark tunnel is impressive — stop and let the kids watch for several minutes

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes
Extra $5–$10 for animal encounter add-ons
Camera — the animal encounters make great photos

Cost Info

Estimated Cost (Family of 4)

$80–$120 for a family of 4.

Online tickets are cheaper than at-the-door.

Animal encounter add-ons are extra.

Tips to Save

Buy tickets online in advance for the cheapest rates.
Children under 2 are free.
Consider the membership if visiting Austin frequently — it pays for itself in 2 visits.