Experience an enchanting evening with your partner at the Denver Aquarium, where LGBTQ+ couples are warmly invited to celebrate their love amidst the wonders of the deep. As the sun dips below the horizon, the aquarium transforms into a romantic haven, perfect for creating unforgettable memories. Whether it’s your first date or a special night out with your partner, the Denver Aquarium has something for you. Explore various displays and interactive exhibits to learn more about your date.
Planning Your Visit: A Fin-tastic Adventure
A little bit of planning will go a long way towards making sure that your date night at the aquarium runs smoothly.
Hours and Admission
Ready to dive into this aquatic extravaganza? The Denver Aquarium is open daily, because fish don’t believe in weekends(Sun-Thurs 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m. and Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-10 p.m.). Admission prices vary, so check their website for the latest information, but last we checked just below $30 was the average. Pro tip: If you show up dressed as a mermaid, you might not get a discount, but you’ll definitely make a splash!
Special Events and Promotions
Keep your eyes peeled for special adult events at the Denver Aquarium. These 21+ events let you explore the exhibits without tiny humans darting around like schools of fish. Plus, you can enjoy a cocktail while watching sharks swim by.
LGBTQ+ Friendly Policies
The Denver Aquarium is as welcoming as a warm tropical current. They’’re totally cool with you being your fabulous queer self. Whether you’re a gay guppy, a lesbian lionfish, or a non-binary narwhal, you’re welcome here. Just remember, PDA is fine, but maybe don’t try to recreate that famous kiss scene from The Shape of Water.
So grab your date and get ready for a night that’s wetter and better than ever. At the Denver Aquarium, the only thing that’s not fluid is their commitment to inclusivity!
Exploring the Exhibits at the Denver Aquarium: A Wet and Wild Adventure
The Denver Aquarium is more than just a tank full of fish. Check out the various different exhibits with your favorite person or someone you want to get to know better!
North America: Not Your Average Road Trip
First stop on your journey through the Denver Aquarium: the North America exhibit! Here, you’ll find a delightful mix of playful river otters and majestic bald eagles. It’s like a cross-country road trip, but without the questionable gas station snacks. Just try not to get too jealous of the otters’ hand-holding skills—they’re the real relationship goals!
In the Desert: Where Fish Defy Logic
Next, dive into the “In the Desert” exhibit at the Denver Aquarium. Yes, desert fish are a thing, and they’re surprisingly fascinating! These aquatic rebels thrive in harsh conditions, just like you might have during that one family reunion. As you marvel at these resilient creatures, bond over your shared ability to survive in tough environments.
Under the Sea: Where Romance Bubbles Up
Now we’re getting to the good stuff! The “Under the Sea” section of the Denver Aquarium is where romance really kicks in. Stroll through the underwater tunnel, hand-in-hand, as sharks glide overhead. It’s the perfect moment to pull your date close and whisper sweet nothings like, “If you were a fish, you’d be a fine-apple fish.” Cheesy? Yes. Effective? Absolutely!
At the Wharf: Coastal Charm Without the Seagull Attacks
Ahoy, lovebirds! The “At the Wharf” exhibit brings all the charm of a seaside town without the risk of seagulls stealing your fries. Admire the coastal marine life and pretend you’re on a romantic beach getaway. Just remember, if you hear someone yelling “Shark!”, it’s probably just an overly excited kid, not a Jaws situation.
The Rainforest: Tropical Paradise Minus the Humidity Hair
Last but not least, venture into “The Rainforest” exhibit at the Denver Aquarium. It’s like a tropical getaway, but your hair won’t frizz and you won’t need bug spray! Ogle at exotic freshwater species and lush greenery. Feel free to practice your Tarzan yell, but maybe save the vine-swinging for after you’ve left the aquarium.
Interactive Experiences: Making Waves at the Denver Aquarium
Want to get a more hands-on experience at the Denver Aquarium? You’d be surprised at how interactive some of the exhibits are.
Stingray Reef: High-Five a Flat Fish
Ready to get handsy with some underwater pancakes? The Stingray Reef touch tank at the Denver Aquarium is your chance to give a high-five (or is it a high-fin?) to these majestic sea flap-flaps. Just remember, consent is key – even with stingrays. No grabby hands, please.
Aquarium Dive Show: Where Humans Play Fish
Ever wondered what it’s like to be a fish in a giant tank? Well, wonder no more! The Aquarium Dive Show at the Denver Aquarium lets you watch divers swim with the fishes – without sleeping with them, if you catch my drift. It’s like a reverse aquarium where we’re the ones on display. Talk about a role reversal! Just don’t tap on the glass – the humans might get startled.
Mystic Mermaids Show: No Ursula Allowed
Ariel, eat your heart out! The Mystic Mermaids show at the Denver Aquarium brings all the magic of under the sea without the questionable contracts or evil sea witches. Watch as these fabulous finned performers dazzle and delight. Just don’t get any ideas about trading your voice for legs – trust me, it’s not worth it, especially when you’re trying to order at the Denver Aquarium’s cafe.
Behind-the-Scenes Tours: The VIP Fish Experience
Want to see where the magic happens? The behind-the-scenes tours at the Denver Aquarium are like getting backstage passes to the hottest underwater concert. Peek behind the curtain (or should I say, behind the coral?) and see how they keep this watery wonderland running smoothly. Warning: may contain fish puns and dad jokes from overly enthusiastic tour guides.
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Tips for a Fin-tastic Queer Date Night at the Denver Aquarium
Timing is Everything: When to Make Your Splash
Want to avoid the crowds and have a more intimate experience at the Denver Aquarium? Visit during off-peak hours. Weekday evenings are perfect for a romantic rendezvous with the fishes. Plus, you’ll have more space to practice your “I’m king of the world!” pose without judgmental stares from passing families. Just don’t try to recreate the “draw me like one of your French girls” scene.
Picture Perfect: Capture the Magic (Without Capturing a Fish)
The Denver Aquarium is a goldmine for Instagram-worthy shots. Strike a pose in front of the shark tunnel or get a selfie with a photobombing sea turtle. Pro tip: Turn off your flash, unless you want to start a rave party for the fish.
Keep the Party Swimming: From Aquarium to Nightlife
After your aquatic adventure at the Denver Aquarium, keep the good times rolling. Head to nearby LGBTQ+ friendly spots like Tracks Nightclub for some dancing, or X Bar for a nightcap. And no, they won’t let you borrow their fog machine to recreate the misty ambiance of the rainforest exhibit.
Remember, lovebirds (or should I say, love fish?), the key to a great date at the Denver Aquarium is to dive in with an open mind and a sense of humor. Whether you’re gazing at jellyfish or giggling at the puffins, you’re sure to have a whale of a time.
Author: Jeff Wilson
Jeff is one of the owners of GayDenver and one of its writers. He is a Denver transplant who loves the city and the proximity of the mountains. He is happily married to his husband and loves hiking with his furbaby Thayella.