“As the largest aquarium in Texas, the Aquarium’s continued recognition highlights its leadership in conservation, education, and unforgettable guest experience,” officials said in the leadup to USA Today’s announcement of the winners on May 20.
As for what makes the Texas State Aquarium so beloved? Readers loved the dizzying variety of wild animals that visitors can find in the various exhibits scattered throughout the facility’s 6.3-acre property located at 2710 No. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78402. And the exhibits aren’t just limited to showcasing marine life.
“Notable exhibits include a spacious jungle with flamingos, free-flying birds, and macaws, as well as a deep-sea habitat where visitors can get up close with sharks prowling among a sunken shipwreck,” USA Today officials said.
“Additional exhibits provide captivating views of sea turtles, dolphins, river otters, and other remarkable animals, while touch pools and educational animal presentations offer interactive, hands-on experiences.”
The aquarium features nearly two dozen distinct exhibits and habitat areas spread across three levels. Aside from its marine displays, including a massive 400,000-gallon shark aquarium inside its Caribbean Journey exhibit, the facility also offers close-up views of all sorts of terrestrial animals. That includes Milla the ocelot, a federally endangered wildcat species that was once abundant throughout South Texas.
Visitors making a trip to the aquarium this summer will also have a new spot to explore thanks to a newly opened interactive feature called Ocean Odyssey, which opened for the first time on May 23. The immersive space offers a “Children’s Discovery Center designed to inspire play, exploration, and a deeper connection to wildlife rescue,” aquarium officials said.
Ocean Odyssey features multi-level climbable play structures, such as a large orange octopus, toddler-friendly spaces, and play areas for big kids, too.