Why was the Denver Aquarium empty?

Recently we attended a holiday party at the Denver Aquarium restaurant. Part of the festivities was the ability to cruse the aquarium exhibits. We were shocked how empty the aquarium was on a Friday night. It turns out to be a great idea for a date night.

Empty exhibit viewing area. Only we were there.Photo byColorado Martini Publishing LLC YouTube

The night we were touring the aquarium exhibits in Downtown was around 8:00 p.m. on a Friday night. For the holidays the aquarium was beautifully decorated with lights. The only other people in the aquarium were our Holiday party and a few other couples not with our group.

Crowds at the Denver AquariumPhoto byColorado Martini Publishing LLC YouTube

I have visited the aquarium many times during the day. Each time it was full of families trying to get a view of the displays and exhibits. At times it is overcrowded and takes forever to file through. This was the first time I could actually take amazing pictures and videos without others in my frame. It was so relaxing and romantic.

Downtown Denver Aquarium Seahorse exhibit. Taken that empty night.Photo byColorado Martini Publishing LLC YouTube

Because of the ambience inside the aquarium. It was very romantic. Dim lights, beautiful fish tanks, and no crowds. It was amazing. I thought to myself, “what a great date night.”

When I got home, I was pleased to find out that on Friday and Saturday nights the aquarium is open until 10 p.m. In addition, they have several evening events during the month of December. See list below.

We recommend that you have a romance dinner in their restaurant and then tour the exhibits while holding hands. Sit at the tank benches and romantically watch the fish swim by. Even sneak in some kisses and hugs. You can even have some cocktails at the bar. But do note that the bar and restaurant are hosting many holiday parties during December. So, make reservations and purchase tickets ASAP.

December Hours

Restaurant Hours:

• Monday - Thursday: 11am - 8:30pm
• Friday - Saturday: 11am - 10pm
• Sunday: 11am - 8:30pm
• Christmas Eve Hours: 11AM-8PM
• Christmas Day Hours: 12PM-8PM

Exhibit Hours of Operation:

• Monday - Thursday: 10am - 8:30pm
• Friday - Saturday: 10am - 10pm
• Sunday: 10am - 8:30pm
• Christmas Eve Hours: 10AM-8PM
• Christmas Day Hours: 12PM-8PM

December Events and Deals for Families

• Friday Family Nights: $2.99 Kids’ Meal with purchase of an adult entrée and $6 Exhibit Passes after 6pm on Friday.
• Holiday Sweetness deals. Holiday dessert promotion
• December 9,10,16,17,23,24: breakfast with Santa. Dine with Santa and mascot Sharkey. Exhibit discounts and more. Only available at 8:30AM and 9:45AM. (Reservations Required)
• December 27: Marine Biologist for a Day 1st – 4th grade: Register to reserve your spot.
• December 27: Zoologist for a Day 5th – 8th grade: Register to reserve your spot.
• December 28: Marine Biologist for a Day 5th – 8th grade: Register to reserve your spot.
• December 28: Zoologist for a Day 1st – 4th grade: Register here reserve your spot.
• December 29: Marine Biologist for a Day 9th – 12th grade: Register to reserve your spot.
• December 24: Christmas Eve: Open for family fun. 4-course dinner menu
• December 25: Christmas Day: Open for family fun. 4-course dinner menu
• December 31: New Year's Eve Family Celebration: Ring in the New Year with mascot Sharkey. Buffet, balloon drop, contests & giveaways for the kids. (Reservations Required)

See more

• See music video with Denver Aquarium Mystic Mermaids
• See article on the Denver Aquarium Mystic Mermaids
• More from Colorado Martini