Oklahoma Aquarium Jenks - Waterdog? Mudpuppy? Pokemon?
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Oklahoma Aquarium Jenks

4.6
·11k reviews·Jenks, United States

Discover thousands of aquatic species, from playful otters to majestic sharks, with interactive exhibits and a captivating underwater tunnel.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays (Thursdays & Fridays)

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit.

CrowdLow
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Oklahoma Aquarium Jenks - Waterdog? Mudpuppy? Pokemon?

Oklahoma Aquarium Jenks

Best Time

Weekdays (Thursdays & Fridays)

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover thousands of aquatic species, from playful otters to majestic sharks, with interactive exhibits and a captivating underwater tunnel.

4.6
(11k reviews)

"The Oklahoma Aquarium far exceeded my family’s expectations! Everything was clean, staff were super friendly, and there were so many things to see."

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TIP

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance online.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shark Adventure Tunnel

Shark Adventure Tunnel

Shark Adventure Exhibit

Walk through a mesmerizing tunnel surrounded by sharks, bull sharks, and other marine life. A truly immersive experience!

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Sea Turtle Island

Sea Turtle Island

Sea Turtle Island Exhibit

Marvel at the majestic sea turtles, often described as friendly and interactive. A crowd favorite for all ages.

Instagram+1
Jellyfish & Stingray Touch Pools

Jellyfish & Stingray Touch Pools

Various Touch Pool Areas

Get hands-on with gentle jellyfish and stingrays. A unique opportunity for close encounters with marine life.

TikTokReddit
Giant Pacific Octopus

Giant Pacific Octopus

Ocean Wonders Exhibit

Be captivated by the intelligence and unique appearance of the Giant Pacific Octopus.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Maximize Your Visit

Visit on weekdays, especially Thursdays or Fridays, to avoid weekend crowds. Arrive early or later in the afternoon for a more relaxed experience. Consider booking tickets online to save time at the entrance, especially if planning a weekend visit. Reddit

Interactive Fun for All Ages

The Oklahoma Aquarium offers numerous interactive exhibits, including touch pools with jellyfish and stingrays, making it engaging for both kids and adults. Plan for 2-3 hours to fully explore and enjoy these hands-on opportunities. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays (Thursdays & Fridays)
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit.
Crowd
Low
When
Early Mornings or Late Afternoons
Why
Avoid peak visitor times.
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds.
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Part 1: Take a trip with us to the the Oklahoma Aquarium located in Jenks, America. #DiscoverJenks #jenkschamberofcommerce #aquariumtok #oklahoma #foryoupage
@discoverjenks
239 likes • 10.6K views

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance online. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must! TikTok

Join us on an exciting adventure to the Oklahoma aquarium! The aquarium in jenks, Oklahoma is filled with a wide variety of undersea creatures such as fish, octopus, stingrays, sharks, and otters and so much more ! It's a fantastic place to bring kids of all ages for a day of fun. In addition to the amazing sea life, there's also a playground outside, delicious ice cream, and other exciting activi...
@tamimariesuejean
24 likes • 362 views
DAY TRIP TO OKLAHOMA AQUARIUM IN TULSA! (Technically Jenks, OK) I would go back to @okaquarium just for the sea turtle 🐢 he was SO friendly and interactive! We also LOVED the shark tunnel! I wanted to stay in there forever and just watch them! There were opportunities to touch jelly fish, sting rays, and other small sea creatures. Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, and until 9 PM on Tuesdays. Admi...
nwarkansasmamas
237 likes • 13.4K views

📱 Use Hand Sanitizer

Stations are available, especially around interactive exhibits. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moments

Plenty of photo opportunities, especially in the shark tunnel! Instagram

Nate and Karlie explored the @okaquarium in Jenks today, and wow what an adventure!! #travelok #oklahoma #jenks #aquarium #fish #oceans
oklahomatoday
49 likes • 2.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance online. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must! TikTok

📱 Use Hand Sanitizer

Stations are available, especially around interactive exhibits. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moments

Plenty of photo opportunities, especially in the shark tunnel! Instagram

⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours

Plenty of time to explore exhibits and enjoy interactive areas. Reddit

👶 Playground Fun

There's an attached playground for kids to burn off energy. TikTokInstagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(11k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Oklahoma Aquarium for its engaging and interactive exhibits, particularly the shark tunnel and touch pools. The variety of marine life and the friendly atmosphere make it a hit for all ages. While some find the admission price a bit high, most agree it's a worthwhile experience for the educational and fun opportunities it provides. Reddit

"This was my second trip to the Aquarium and I recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, interactive experience.

On our first visit, we paid for the Behind the Scenes Shark Feeding Tour, which was a wonderful, educational experience. I would recommend this for older children and adults who are interested and engaged. It's a wonderful opportunity to learn fun and exciting factoids about the specific animals you're seeing.

On today's visit, we had a 10-year-old with us, so we stuck to the "public" opportunities. These included free petting opportunities with several small "tide pools" and larger, timed opportunities to pet stingrays and jellyfish, as well as paid opportunities to feed turtles and stingrays. These exhibits were spaced out well to re-engage children who might be otherwise distracted.

On a practical note, throughout the Aquarium were paper towels and hand sanitizer stations, especially around the more hands-on exhibits, there are benches and seating spread throughout for those who require or want frequent rest, and there are bathrooms at both ends of the Aquarium.

There are clearly visible, easy-to-read signs throughout the Aquarium with information about the animals and plants on display, however, there are not many audio options. I would love to see an audio component somewhere in the future. Perhaps a QR Code that can be scanned for "guided tour" style information, that way people with learning disorders or who want more in-depth information can more easily access the information on the signs, even when there are lots of people in an exhibit and standing in front of the signs for longer periods is impractical.

Over all, our experiences have been wonderful, and we will certainly be back. Highlights definitely worth checking out include: extremely active and playful otters, a shark tunnel, a large octopus, a large sea turtle, an electric eel with a voltage meter, and many more wonderful animals."

Stephanie Schultz

"Was well worth the $20 and took 2-3 hours to cover. Lots of beautiful jelly fish, turtles, sea horses in different shapes and colors, giant octopus, 1000s of various fish species, huge shark tank, unusual sea urchins. Beautiful coral. Outstanding! Cafe and carousel inside. Virtual documentary in movie chairs. Great day for kids and adults. We visited on a Thursday. Not crowded."

Renee Williams

"Took about 40 Upward Students and we had a blast! Sharks were a big hit! Love how many things you can interact with and there is such a variety of creatures to see and learn about! My teenagers loved it, but I also feel like this would be ideal for toddlers and big kids! So much to see and do for all ages! Oh the photo booth was adorable, and the gift shop almost got all of my money. HIGHLY RECOMMEND."

Kimberlie Borrego

What People Like

Interactive touch pools
Shark tunnel experience
Variety of marine life

What People Dislike

Admission price

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Oklahoma Aquarium is located in Jenks, Oklahoma, a suburb of Tulsa. It's easily accessible by car. Many visitors drive from Tulsa and surrounding areas. Parking is available on-site. TikTokInstagram+1

Public transportation options directly to the aquarium might be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services if you're not coming from nearby. TikTok

The Oklahoma Aquarium is located in Jenks, which is just south of Tulsa. The drive is typically short, around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Instagram+1

There is ample parking available at the Oklahoma Aquarium. Visitors generally find it easy to find a spot, especially on weekdays. TikTok

Absolutely! The Oklahoma Aquarium is a perfect destination for a day trip, especially from Tulsa or surrounding towns. Many visitors travel for the day to experience it. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, but it's generally around $20 per person. It's always best to check the official Oklahoma Aquarium website for the most current pricing. Reddit

While not always mandatory, purchasing Jenks Aquarium tickets in advance online is highly recommended to save time and potentially avoid long queues, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Reddit

The Oklahoma Aquarium typically opens around 10 AM and closes in the late afternoon, often around 5 PM. Hours can vary by season and day of the week, so checking their official website is crucial. Instagram

Yes, the Oklahoma Aquarium offers membership options which can be a great value for frequent visitors or families. Check their website for details on membership benefits and pricing. Reddit

Discounts may be available for seniors, military personnel, or children. Special event days might also offer reduced admission. It's advisable to inquire directly or check their website for any available promotions. Reddit

🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the Shark Adventure tunnel, Sea Turtle Island, the Giant Pacific Octopus, and the interactive touch pools with jellyfish and stingrays. The playful otters are also a highlight. TikTokInstagramReddit

Absolutely! The Oklahoma Aquarium is very family-friendly with many interactive exhibits, touch pools, and a playground outside, making it a hit with children of all ages. TikTokReddit+1

Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the aquarium. This allows ample time to see all the exhibits and participate in interactive experiences. Reddit

Yes, the aquarium offers numerous interactive opportunities, including touching jellyfish, stingrays, and even feeding turtles and stingrays (sometimes with an additional fee). TikTokInstagramReddit

This is an educational, paid tour where you can learn about sharks and witness a feeding. It's recommended for older children and adults interested in a deeper dive into marine biology. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe inside the aquarium offering snacks, drinks, and light meals. You can also find restaurants nearby in Jenks. InstagramReddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium. It's best to check their specific policy, but the on-site cafe is usually the primary option. Reddit

The cafe typically offers typical theme park fare like sandwiches, snacks, and beverages. It's convenient for a quick bite during your visit. Reddit

Yes, Jenks has several restaurants and cafes located close to the aquarium, offering a variety of dining experiences. Instagram

Food prices at attractions can be on the higher side. Packing snacks for younger children might be an option, but for full meals, the cafe or nearby restaurants are available. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the Oklahoma Aquarium for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the animals. Instagram+1

The shark tunnel offers incredible photo opportunities. The vibrant jellyfish exhibits and the large sea turtles are also very photogenic. Instagram+1

Video recording is typically permitted for personal use, similar to photography. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. Instagram

Some reviews mention a photo booth, which can be a fun souvenir. Professional photo services might be available during special events. Reddit

A camera with good low-light performance is ideal. Many visitors use their smartphones, which are quite capable in modern aquariums. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Oklahoma Aquarium is a fantastic destination for families. The interactive touch pools with jellyfish and stingrays are a huge hit with children, offering a hands-on learning experience. TikTokInstagram The Shark Adventure tunnel provides a thrilling visual spectacle that kids love. Instagram+1 Don't miss the play area outside for kids to run around and burn off energy after exploring the exhibits. TikTokInstagram+1 Plan for at least 2-3 hours to allow ample time for exploration and interaction. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While admission has a cost, the Oklahoma Aquarium offers significant value for the experience. Consider visiting on weekdays to potentially avoid higher weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed visit. Reddit Look for any available discounts for seniors, military, or children. Reddit Packing your own snacks or planning a meal at a nearby, more affordable restaurant in Jenks can help manage food costs. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Oklahoma Aquarium provides numerous opportunities for stunning photography. The shark tunnel offers dramatic shots with sharks swimming overhead. Instagram+1 The vibrant colors and graceful movements of the jellyfish exhibits are incredibly photogenic. Instagram Experiment with low-light settings on your camera or smartphone to capture the best images. Instagram Remember to check for any restrictions on flash photography to protect the animals. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Diverse Aquatic Life

The Oklahoma Aquarium is home to an impressive array of aquatic species, spanning over 500 different types and housing more than 10,000 animals. TikTok Visitors can marvel at everything from the playful and active otters to the mesmerizing Giant Pacific Octopus. The aquarium is particularly renowned for its Shark Adventure, featuring a captivating walk-through tunnel where you can observe sharks, including bull sharks, swimming all around you. Instagram+1 This immersive experience makes you feel like you're truly part of their underwater world. TikTok

Beyond the larger predators, the aquarium showcases a stunning variety of marine life. You'll find colorful tropical fish, unique seahorses in different shapes and colors, and unusual sea urchins. The Jellyfish exhibits are particularly beautiful, with their ethereal glow and graceful movements. TikTokReddit Many visitors highlight the opportunity to interact with these creatures in designated touch pools, alongside stingrays and other small sea life. InstagramReddit

For those interested in specific species, the Sea Turtle Island is a major draw, with visitors often describing the turtles as friendly and interactive. Instagram+1 The aquarium also features an electric eel with a visible voltage meter, offering a unique educational display. The sheer diversity ensures there's something fascinating for every visitor, from the youngest child to the most seasoned marine enthusiast. TikTok

Interactive Experiences and Family Fun

One of the standout features of the Oklahoma Aquarium is its emphasis on interactive experiences, making it a fantastic destination for families. TikTokReddit+1 Beyond simply observing, visitors have the chance to get up close and personal with marine life. The touch pools are a major highlight, allowing guests to gently touch jellyfish, stingrays, and even small shrimp. TikTokInstagram These hands-on opportunities create memorable moments and provide a deeper connection with the aquatic world. Reddit

For an additional experience, the aquarium offers paid opportunities to feed turtles and stingrays, which is a thrilling activity for children and adults alike. Reddit The Behind the Scenes Shark Feeding Tour is another popular option for those seeking a more in-depth, educational encounter, offering insights into the care and feeding of these magnificent creatures. Reddit These activities are thoughtfully spaced throughout the aquarium to keep visitors, especially younger ones, engaged and entertained. Reddit

Complementing the indoor exhibits, an outdoor playground is attached to the aquarium, providing a space for children to play and burn off energy after exploring the aquatic displays. TikTokInstagram+1 This makes the Oklahoma Aquarium a well-rounded destination for a family outing, offering both educational and recreational fun for all ages. TikTokReddit

Planning Your Visit: Tips from Visitors

When planning your trip to the Oklahoma Aquarium, several practical tips from fellow visitors can enhance your experience. Arriving on weekdays, particularly Thursdays and Fridays, is often recommended to avoid the larger crowds that tend to visit on weekends. Reddit If a weekend visit is unavoidable, aiming for early mornings or late afternoons can offer a more relaxed atmosphere. Reddit

Many visitors suggest purchasing tickets online in advance to streamline the entry process and save valuable time. Reddit Comfortable footwear is essential, as you'll be doing a considerable amount of walking throughout the 72,000-square-foot facility. TikTok Hand sanitizer stations are readily available, especially near the interactive exhibits, which is a thoughtful touch for maintaining hygiene. Reddit

Plan for approximately 2-3 hours to fully explore all the exhibits and enjoy the interactive elements. Reddit Don't forget to check out the gift shop, which some visitors found almost irresistible! Reddit For families, the adjacent playground offers a great way for kids to enjoy some outdoor fun after the aquarium visit. TikTokInstagram+1

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