Texas State Aquarium Puts Finishing Touches on Caribbean Journey for Grand Opening

Caribbean Journey's immersive and interactive exhibits showcase the biodiversity and culture of the Yucatan Peninsula and Caribbean Sea. Guests can expect to see sharks, tropical fishes, birds and reptiles. They can also experience marine themed films in a new, multi-sensory Whataburger 4-D theater.

"Our staff is eagerly waiting to open the doors to Caribbean Journey as we unveil our newest exhibits that bring the world of the Caribbean Sea to life on the Texas Gulf Coast," said Texas State Aquarium President & CEO Tom Schmid. "We're looking forward to sharing the highly interactive, educational and action-packed experience with marine life enthusiasts of all ages."

The grand opening of Caribbean Journey advances the aquarium's Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education programming and conservation and wildlife rehabilitation programs. It features a new Flint Hills Resources Center for Excellence in STEM Education, which promotes discovery-based learning and advanced digital technology to connect guests to STEM professionals.

The expansion also enhances the aquarium's ability to educate visitors about wildlife ecology and marine life conservation. TSA currently cares for more than 4,000 animals representing more than 380 species. In 2016, it treated more than 340 injured animals through its Second Chances Wildlife Rehabilitation Program.

In 2016, the Texas State Aquarium attracted approximately 520,000 visitors and projects attendance to increase to 600,000 by next year. The Texas State Aquarium summer hours, from March through Labor Day, are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information and admission prices, visit www.texasstateaquarium.org.

The Texas State Aquarium (TSA) is a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) institution fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Its mission is to engage people with animals, inspire appreciation for our seas and support wildlife conservation. TSA provides high quality science education about marine conservation and the habitats and species of the Gulf of Mexico to families primarily in Texas. It was named the number one cultural attraction in South Texas and one of the Top 20 Aquariums in the nation by TravelChannel.com.

SOURCE Texas State Aquarium

Related Links

http://www.texasstateaquarium.org