Dallas · Texas
Expect a solid half-day outing with colorful reef tanks, touch pools for rays and small sharks, and the usual penguin or otter exhibits that kids go nuts for. The place gets crowded on weekends with strollers and birthday parties, so the experience is more lively than peaceful. Little ones under 5 will be happiest at the hands-on areas; older kids might want more time at the larger predator tanks. Plan on 2-3 hours total before attention spans give out.
Best time is weekday mornings during the school year, especially fall or spring when it's not too hot outside. Summers are brutal in Dallas and the aquarium gets packed with camps and tourists. Expect to pay around $25-40 per adult and $15-25 per child, plus parking and the inevitable gift shop pressure. A family of four will likely drop $100-150 before snacks.
Smart move: buy tickets online ahead of time and arrive right at opening. Skip the overpriced 3D theater add-on unless your kids are older; the basic exhibits are plenty. Bring your own water and a small snack - the on-site food is mediocre and expensive. If your crew has any mobility issues, note that some touch pools have limited access during busy periods.