DENVER ATTRACTION FIELD GUIDE
Up Close with Ancient Shells: Meet Zilla & Mayor at Denver’s Downtown Aquarium
A 20–30 minute, interactive meet-and-greet where visitors watch and join tortoise training, touch the animals, and take photos—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
Up Close with Ancient Shells: Meet Zilla & Mayor at Denver’s Downtown Aquarium.
Set inside Denver’s Downtown Aquarium, the Tortoise Meet and Greet is a short, intimate encounter with two long-lived reptiles, Zilla and Mayor. Over roughly twenty to thirty minutes you’ll watch a training session, take part in it, have hands-on contact with the tortoises and make time for photographs—an accessible, family-oriented glimpse into the lives of these ancient animals.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Participate in live training
The session includes watching a professional training demonstration and taking part in the training yourself, offering a close look at tortoise behavior and husbandry.
Short, family-friendly interaction
Described as ideal for families, the meet-and-greet is designed to be kid-friendly and concise, providing a hands-on experience in a compact 20–30 minute format.
A tactile portrait opportunity
Participants are invited to touch the tortoises and take pictures, creating memorable, close-range portraits with Zilla and Mayor.
What the day feels like
What the encounter feels like
The meet-and-greet moves quickly: an introduction to the animals and staff, observation of a training exercise, guided participation that may include touching the tortoise, and a moment set aside for photographs—an intimate, hands-on exchange between visitor and animal.
THE ENCOUNTER
Participate in live training
The session includes watching a professional training demonstration and taking part in the training yourself, offering a close look at tortoise behavior and husbandry.
THE AUDIENCE
Short, family-friendly interaction
Described as ideal for families, the meet-and-greet is designed to be kid-friendly and concise, providing a hands-on experience in a compact 20–30 minute format.
THE PHOTOS
A tactile portrait opportunity
Participants are invited to touch the tortoises and take pictures, creating memorable, close-range portraits with Zilla and Mayor.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this experience suits—and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Sessions run approximately 20–30 minutes.
Bring a camera or phone for photos; expect hands-on contact under staff guidance.
The offering is a private meet-and-greet option intended for small parties (see FAQs for rates and group limits).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the Tortoise Meet and Greet last?
The meet-and-greet lasts approximately 20–30 minutes.
How much does a private meet-and-greet cost?
A private Meet and Greet is priced at $150 for up to six guests.
Are children allowed to participate?
Yes—participants under 18 years of age must be accompanied by paying adults.
Can I bring a service animal into the meet-and-greet?
No—service animals are not permitted in Meet and Greets or behind-the-scenes animal areas in order to comply with animal welfare and quarantine protocols.
What will we do during the session?
You will watch a training session, participate in training elements, touch the tortoise under supervision, and take photos with the animals.
Where is the meet-and-greet held?
The experience is operated by Downtown Aquarium - Denver Encounters at the Downtown Aquarium in Denver, Colorado.