Oklahoma Aquarium

About

Oklahoma Aquarium sits along the Arkansas River in Jenks, Oklahoma, offering a surprising deep-sea experience right in the middle of the country. Since opening in 2003, it has grown into one of the region's most popular family attractions, housing thousands of aquatic animals across diverse exhibits.

The aquarium is best known for its bull shark exhibit, one of the largest collections of bull sharks in the world. Visitors can walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by these powerful creatures gliding overhead. It's a genuinely thrilling experience, and one you wouldn't expect to find in landlocked Oklahoma.

Beyond the sharks, there's plenty to explore. The Sea Turtle Island exhibit features rescued sea turtles in a bright, open habitat. Touch tanks let visitors feel stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and other marine animals up close. The Polynesian Reef display showcases colorful tropical fish, while the Ozark Stream exhibit highlights native freshwater species from Oklahoma's own waterways.

Younger visitors especially enjoy the interactive elements. The aquarium offers feeding opportunities, educational programs, and seasonal events throughout the year. The gift shop carries marine-themed souvenirs, and there are spots to grab snacks during your visit.

Plan for about two to three hours to see everything at a comfortable pace. The aquarium is open year-round, though hours vary by season, so check before you go. Admission is reasonably priced, with discounts for children, seniors, and military families. Parking is free in the lot right outside.

The Riverwalk Crossing shopping and dining area is just steps away, making it easy to turn your aquarium visit into a full day out. Jenks itself is a charming small town with restaurants and antique shops worth browsing. For families, couples, or anyone curious about ocean life, Oklahoma Aquarium delivers a memorable experience without a coast in sight.

Accessibility

Oklahoma Aquarium is a single-level indoor facility, which makes it generally accessible for wheelchair users and visitors with mobility challenges. The building's layout allows for a continuous path through most exhibits without stairs or significant elevation changes.

Free parking is available in the adjacent lot. Visitors should look for designated accessible parking spaces near the main entrance. The entrance itself is at ground level with automatic doors.

Inside, exhibit hallways are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices. The underwater shark tunnel and most viewing areas are designed at varying heights, though some tank windows may be easier to view from a standing position. Touch tank exhibits have raised edges that may require assistance for visitors in wheelchairs.

Restrooms are available inside the facility. The aquarium's indoor, climate-controlled environment means visitors don't need to worry about weather or uneven outdoor terrain.

For visitors with sensory sensitivities, be aware that some exhibit areas are intentionally dark to showcase marine life, and certain zones may have louder ambient sound effects. The aquarium occasionally hosts special sensory-friendly events with reduced lighting effects and lower crowd levels - check their website or call ahead for upcoming dates.

Service animals are generally welcome in accordance with ADA guidelines. Contact the aquarium directly at (918) 296-3474 for current policies on service animals and any specific accommodation needs. Staff members are typically available throughout the facility to offer assistance.

For the most up-to-date accessibility information, including details about wheelchair rentals, assisted listening devices, or other specific accommodations, contact the aquarium before your visit.

More accessible places in Oklahoma

• Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve (Bartlesville)
• Chickasaw National Recreation Area (Sulphur)
• Washita Battlefield National Historic Site (Cheyenne)
• First Americans Museum (Oklahoma City)
• Oklahoma City Museum of Art (Oklahoma City)
• Oklahoma History Center (Oklahoma City)