CITY OF THE LOCATION GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Backstage at the Tanks: A Compact, Hands‑On Look at Filtration, Feeding and the Underwater Vantage at the Downtown Aquarium
A guided, small‑group visit that takes you behind the public displays to see animal care, filtration systems and food preparation—useful for visitors who want to understand how the aquarium runs.
Backstage at the Tanks: A Compact, Hands‑On Look at Filtration, Feeding and the Underwater Vantage at the Downtown Aquarium.
Discover what it takes to care for thousands of animals at the Downtown Aquarium on a guided Behind the Scenes Tour. The visit moves through back‑of‑house spaces—showing filtration equipment and the animal food‑preparation area—and grants a distinct above‑and‑behind perspective on exhibits such as Under the Sea and Sunken Shipwreck, with close views of sea turtles and sharks. The tour includes general admission to the Aquarium and is limited to just 10 participants.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Guided by Education Staff
Join a member of the aquarium’s education team for an interpretive walk through back areas, gaining first‑hand explanation of animal care protocols and daily routines.
Filtration and Food‑Prep Access
See the filtration systems and the food‑preparation area up close to understand the engineering and logistics that keep exhibits healthy and the animals fed.
New Perspectives on Signature Exhibits
Gain unique vantage points into the Under the Sea and Sunken Shipwreck exhibits for close looks at sea turtles and sharks from behind and above the displays.
What the day feels like
What the tour feels like
This compact guided experience moves deliberately through behind‑the‑scenes corridors and selected exhibit vantage points. Along the way staff explain the systems that sustain animal health—mechanical, nutritional and husbandry—and you step into areas not open to general admission for a clearer view of turtles, sharks and other resident species. The tour is structured to blend technical explanation with up‑close observation.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Close‑toed shoes are required to enter behind‑the‑scenes areas; plan footwear accordingly.
Participants must wear close‑toed shoes for safety when touring back‑of‑house spaces.
Tours are intentionally small to preserve access and safety—plan for a capped group experience.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Behind the Scenes Tour?
The tour runs 45 minutes.
What are the age restrictions for the tour?
The tour is for ages 12 and up; toddlers and babies are not permitted for safety reasons.
How many people are allowed on a tour?
Tours are limited to 10 participants total.
Can I take photos or video behind the scenes?
No—pictures and video are not permitted behind the scenes.
Does the tour include admission to the Aquarium?
Yes; the Behind the Scenes Tour includes admission to the Aquarium.
Are there ticket rates published for the tour?
Rates listed include Adult (Ages 12–64): $37.50 and Senior (Ages 65+): $36.50.
Is special footwear required?
Yes—close‑toed shoes are required to go behind the scenes.