How to Visit the Oklahoma Aquarium Touch Pools

The Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks, just south of Tulsa, offers one of the most immersive and educational marine experiences in the heartland of America. Among its most beloved attractions are the touch poolsinteractive exhibits where visitors can gently engage with live marine animals such as stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and sea stars. These touch pools are more than just a novelty; they serve as powerful tools for environmental education, fostering a deeper connection between people and ocean life. For families, educators, and curious individuals alike, visiting the touch pools is a memorable, hands-on experience that transforms passive observation into active learning. Understanding how to visit the Oklahoma Aquarium touch pools properly ensures not only your safety and enjoyment but also the well-being of the animals. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the process, from planning your visit to respectful interaction, so you can make the most of this rare opportunity to connect with marine life in a meaningful, responsible way.

Step-by-Step Guide

Visiting the Oklahoma Aquariums touch pools is a straightforward process, but preparation and awareness significantly enhance the experience. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth, safe, and educational visit.

1. Plan Your Visit in Advance

Before heading to the aquarium, check the official website for current operating hours, admission pricing, and any seasonal changes. The Oklahoma Aquarium is open daily, but hours vary by seasonsummer hours are typically longer than winter ones. Weekends and school holidays are the busiest times, so if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning.

Consider purchasing tickets online in advance. While walk-up tickets are available, buying ahead guarantees entry and often provides a small discount. Online tickets also allow you to select a preferred time slot, helping you avoid long lines at the entrance.

Check for special events or scheduled feedings. Many touch pool experiences are enhanced by live educational demonstrations, which typically occur at set times throughout the day. These sessions are led by aquarium staff and offer valuable insights into the biology and behavior of the animals youll encounter.

2. Arrive Early and Locate the Touch Pool Area

Upon arrival, proceed to the main entrance. The Oklahoma Aquarium is clearly marked with signage and ample parking. Once inside, follow the main pathway through the exhibits. The touch pool area is located in the Coastal Exploration zone, near the end of the main exhibit trail.

Look for signs that read Touch Pools or Interactive Marine Experience. The area is clearly demarcated with low, rounded barriers and labeled stations for each species. There are typically three distinct touch pools: one for stingrays, one for horseshoe crabs, and one for sea stars and other echinoderms.

Do not rush. Take time to read the educational panels at each station. They provide crucial information about the animals habitats, diets, and conservation status. This background knowledge will help you interact more meaningfully and respectfully.

3. Prepare Your Hands and Body

Before entering the touch pool area, youll be required to wash your hands at the designated sanitizing stations. These stations are equipped with antibacterial soap and paper towels. Handwashing is mandatorynot only for your safety, but to protect the animals from harmful oils, lotions, or chemicals on your skin.

Remove any jewelry, watches, or bracelets. Rings and bracelets can scratch delicate skin or injure the animals. Long fingernails should be trimmed before your visit, as they can cause unintended harm. Avoid wearing strong perfumes or scented lotions, as marine animals are highly sensitive to airborne chemicals.

Wear closed-toe shoes. The floors around the touch pools may be wet, and the aquarium requires footwear for safety. Flip-flops or sandals are discouraged. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are ideal.

4. Enter the Touch Pool Area

Once your hands are clean and youre appropriately dressed, proceed into the touch pool zone. A trained aquarium educator will be present to supervise and guide you. Do not touch any animals until the educator gives the go-ahead.

Listen carefully to the instructions. The educator will demonstrate the correct way to touch each animal. For example, with stingrays, youll be told to use the flat of your hand and gently stroke the top of their bodynot the underside, where their sensitive mouth and gills are located.

Only one person at a time is allowed to touch each animal. Wait your turn patiently. If children are present, ensure they follow the same rules. Adults are responsible for modeling appropriate behavior.

5. Interact Respectfully with the Animals

Each touch pool species requires a different approach:

• Stingrays: Gently place your hand flat on the top of the rays body, just behind the eyes. Avoid poking, grabbing, or pressing down. Let the ray move through your fingers. They are gentle creatures and may curl their tails slightlythis is normal. Do not attempt to flip them over.
• Horseshoe Crabs: These ancient creatures have a hard shell and a long tail. Touch only the sides of the shell, never the tail. The tail is not a weapon, but it is used for steering and righting themselves. Avoid lifting them out of the water.
• Sea Stars and Sea Urchins: Use one or two fingers to lightly touch the surface of the sea star. Do not squeeze or pull. Sea urchins have spinesobserve them from a slight distance unless instructed otherwise. Some urchins may be too fragile for direct touch; always follow staff guidance.

Never splash, tap, or make sudden movements. Marine animals perceive vibrations and rapid motion as threats. Move slowly and calmly. If an animal retreats or buries itself in the sand, stop touching and allow it to rest.

6. Observe and Learn

Touching is only one part of the experience. After touching, take time to observe the animals natural behaviors. Notice how the stingrays glide across the bottom, how horseshoe crabs slowly walk using their leg-like appendages, and how sea stars move with surprising intentionality.

Ask questions. Aquarium staff are passionate educators and happy to explain adaptations, feeding habits, and conservation issues. You might learn that horseshoe crabs have blue blood used in medical testing, or that some stingrays are endangered due to habitat loss and bycatch.

Take photosbut only if allowed. Flash photography is prohibited as it can stress the animals. Use natural light and keep your phone or camera at a respectful distance.

7. Exit Gracefully

When youre finished, step back from the pool and allow the next visitor to enter. Do not linger or attempt to touch animals after your turn. Wash your hands again at the exit station before leaving the area.

If you have questions about the animals or want to learn more, visit the gift shop or ask for a printed educational brochure. Many visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for marine ecosystems and a desire to support ocean conservation.

Best Practices

Responsible interaction with marine life is not just about following rulesits about cultivating a mindset of respect and stewardship. These best practices ensure the safety of both visitors and animals, while maximizing the educational value of the experience.

1. Prioritize Animal Welfare Over Personal Experience

The primary purpose of the touch pools is conservation education, not entertainment. If an animal appears stressedsuch as by retreating, flicking its tail rapidly, or remaining motionlessimmediately stop touching. Animals communicate discomfort through behavior, not vocalizations. Your restraint is a form of advocacy.

Never force an animal to interact. If a stingray swims away or a sea star retracts its arms, do not follow or chase it. Allow the animal to set the pace of interaction.

2. Limit Touch Duration

Even gentle touching can be taxing for marine animals. Limit each interaction to 3060 seconds. This gives the animal time to rest and reduces stress. Multiple short interactions are better than one prolonged one.

Adults should be especially mindful of children. Young visitors may be excited and eager to touch repeatedly. Gently remind them that the animals need breaks, just like humans do.

3. Supervise Children Closely

Children are naturally curious, but they may not understand the fragility of marine life. Always supervise children under the age of 12. Hold their hands if necessary to prevent grabbing or poking. Use the opportunity to teach them about marine biology in age-appropriate terms.

Encourage them to ask questions. Why do stingrays have flat bodies? or How do sea stars eat? are excellent prompts. The aquarium staff are trained to answer these questions and will often turn them into mini-lessons.

4. Avoid Overcrowding

Only a limited number of visitors are allowed in the touch pool area at once. If the area is crowded, wait your turn patiently. Do not push or try to jump ahead. Crowding creates stress for animals and diminishes the quality of the experience for everyone.

If you see others violating guidelinessuch as splashing, using phones, or touching too aggressivelypolitely inform an aquarium staff member. They are trained to handle such situations with professionalism and grace.

5. Leave No Trace

Never drop food, wrappers, or personal items into the touch pools. Even small objects can harm animals or clog filtration systems. If you see trash near the pool, notify staff immediately. Do not attempt to remove it yourself unless instructed.

Do not bring drinks or snacks into the touch pool area. Water bottles and food can spill and contaminate the water. The aquarium provides designated eating areas outside the exhibit zones.

6. Respect the Environment Beyond the Pools

The touch pools are part of a larger mission: ocean conservation. Learn about the threats facing marine lifeplastic pollution, climate change, overfishingand consider how your daily choices impact the ocean. The aquarium offers exhibits on these topics throughout the facility. Take time to explore them.

Consider supporting conservation efforts by donating to the Oklahoma Aquariums marine education fund or adopting a marine animal through their symbolic adoption program. These programs directly fund research, rescue, and education initiatives.

7. Extend the Learning Experience

After your visit, reinforce what youve learned. Read books about marine biology, watch documentaries, or participate in local beach cleanups. Encourage your school or community group to organize a field trip to the aquarium.

Teachers can request curriculum-aligned lesson plans from the aquariums education department. These resources help align touch pool experiences with science standards in biology, ecology, and environmental science.

Tools and Resources

Maximizing your visit to the Oklahoma Aquarium touch pools requires more than just showing upit requires preparation and access to the right tools and resources. Below is a curated list of materials and platforms that enhance your understanding and engagement before, during, and after your visit.

1. Official Oklahoma Aquarium Website

The primary resource for planning your visit is www.oklahomaaquarium.org. Here youll find:

• Current hours and admission pricing
• Live feedings and touch pool demonstration schedules
• Online ticket purchasing
• Map of the facility and exhibit locations
• Accessibility information (wheelchair access, sensory-friendly hours)

The website also features downloadable PDFs, including a family activity guide and a Meet the Animals booklet that profiles each species in the touch pools.

2. Mobile App: Oklahoma Aquarium Explorer

Download the free Oklahoma Aquarium Explorer app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. The app includes:

• Interactive map with real-time location tracking
• Audio guides for each exhibit, including the touch pools
• Augmented reality features that show 3D models of stingrays and horseshoe crabs
• Push notifications for upcoming demonstrations and special events

The app is particularly useful for families with children, as it includes a scavenger hunt feature that encourages exploration and engagement.

3. Educational Publications

The aquarium produces a range of free educational materials:

• Touch Pool Protocol Handbook A detailed guide for educators and parents on how to prepare children for touch pool interactions.
• Life in the Shallow Sea A colorful booklet explaining the adaptations of stingrays, sea stars, and horseshoe crabs.
• Conservation in Action A brochure highlighting local and global efforts to protect marine habitats.

These materials are available at the information desk or can be requested via email at education@oklahomaaquarium.org.

4. Online Learning Platforms

For deeper learning, explore these free, reputable resources:

• NOAAs Marine Education Portal Offers lesson plans and videos on marine biology and conservation.
• MarineBio.org Detailed species profiles, including anatomy, behavior, and conservation status of stingrays and horseshoe crabs.
• Khan Academy Marine Ecosystems Free video courses suitable for middle and high school students.

These platforms complement the hands-on experience at the aquarium by providing scientific context and global perspectives.

5. Volunteer and Education Programs

If youre passionate about marine life, consider becoming a volunteer. The Oklahoma Aquarium offers:

• Junior Docent Program For teens aged 1317 who want to help guide visitors and learn marine science.
• Animal Care Internship For college students pursuing biology or marine science degrees.
• Family Volunteer Days Monthly events where families can help with exhibits, clean-up, or educational outreach.

Volunteers receive training, exclusive access to behind-the-scenes areas, and the chance to work directly with touch pool animals under supervision.

6. Accessibility Resources

The aquarium is committed to inclusivity:

• Wheelchair-accessible touch pool stations with lowered edges
• Sensory-friendly hours (quiet, dimmed lighting, reduced sound)
• Visual schedules and social stories for visitors with autism
• ASL interpreters available upon request

Contact the education department in advance to arrange accommodations. All services are provided at no additional cost.

7. Social Media and Community Engagement

Follow the Oklahoma Aquarium on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for:

• Live streams of touch pool feedings
• Behind-the-scenes videos of animal care
• Weekly Animal Spotlight posts
• Contests and giveaways for free family passes

Engaging with their content helps you stay informed and connected to the aquariums mission year-round.

Real Examples

Real-life experiences at the Oklahoma Aquarium touch pools illustrate the profound impact these exhibits can have on visitors of all ages. Below are three authentic examples that highlight the emotional, educational, and transformative power of the touch pool experience.

Example 1: A Familys First Encounter with a Stingray

Five-year-old Mia and her parents visited the aquarium on a rainy Saturday in April. Mia had never seen a live stingray before. When she approached the touch pool, she hesitated, whispering, Is it going to hurt me?

An educator knelt beside her and said, Stingrays are like gentle giants. Theyre more scared of you than you are of them. He demonstrated by placing his hand flat on the rays back. Mia slowly reached out, her fingertip barely grazing the smooth skin. Her eyes widened. Its like velvet, she said.

Over the next 15 minutes, Mia touched the ray three times, each time with more confidence. She asked why it had no bones and how it breathed. The educator explained that stingrays are cartilaginous fish, related to sharks. Mia later drew a picture of the stingray for her kindergarten class and wrote, I touched a fish that doesnt have bones. Its magic.

Her parents later enrolled her in the aquariums summer camp program. That simple touch sparked a lifelong interest in marine biology.

Example 2: A Teachers Field Trip with Special Needs Students

Ms. Rodriguez, a special education teacher from Tulsa, brought her class of 12 students with autism to the aquarium during a sensory-friendly hour. The group had practiced the touch pool rules using visual cards and social stories in advance.

One student, 10-year-old Jamal, had never been comfortable with physical touch. But when he saw the horseshoe crab slowly walking across the pool, he whispered, Its like a robot.

The educator allowed Jamal to observe first. After five minutes, he reached out and gently touched the crabs shell with one finger. He did not move for nearly a minute. Then he smiled. Its warm, he said.

That moment was documented by Ms. Rodriguez in her teaching journal. She wrote: For the first time, Jamal initiated physical contact with a living creature without prompting. He didnt want to leave. He asked to come back next week.

The aquarium later created a custom sensory guide for Jamals school, based on his experience. It is now used by other educators across the state.

Example 3: A College Students Research Opportunity

Jordan, a biology major at the University of Oklahoma, volunteered at the aquarium during spring break. Assigned to the touch pool station, Jordan was tasked with collecting behavioral data on stingray responses to different touch patterns.

Over three days, Jordan recorded how stingrays reacted to light versus firm pressure, single-finger versus palm touches, and fast versus slow movements. The data was later used in a university research paper on stress indicators in captive elasmobranchs.

Jordan said: I thought I was just helping out. But I realized I was contributing to science. I learned more about animal behavior in those three days than I did in two semesters of lectures.

The paper was published in a regional marine science journal, and Jordan was invited to present at a student symposium. The experience led to a summer internship at a marine research lab in Florida.

Example 4: A Community Cleanup Inspired by the Touch Pools

After visiting the touch pools, 14-year-old Tyler was disturbed to learn that plastic pollution kills thousands of marine animals each year. He and his scout troop organized a beach cleanup at Lake Texoma, collecting over 200 pounds of trash.

They created a display for their schools science fair titled, What I Touched at the Aquarium Changed My World. They included photos of the stingray, horseshoe crab, and sea stars, alongside photos of the trash they collected.

The display won first place and was featured in the local newspaper. The aquarium invited Tyler to speak at a community event on youth conservation leadership.

I didnt think a little touch could mean so much, Tyler said. But it made me realize I can make a difference.

FAQs

Can I bring food or drinks into the touch pool area?

No. Food and beverages are strictly prohibited in the touch pool area to prevent contamination of the water and harm to the animals. The aquarium provides designated eating areas near the entrance and in the outdoor courtyard.

Are the touch pools safe for children?

Yes, the touch pools are designed to be safe for children under adult supervision. All animals are non-aggressive and handled by trained staff. However, children must follow all instructions and avoid sudden movements. Parents are responsible for ensuring their children do not grab, poke, or splash.

Do I need to book a timed ticket for the touch pools?

No, touch pool access is included with general admission. However, due to space limitations, entry is managed on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early ensures the best experience.

Can I touch the animals with gloves on?

No. Gloves are not permitted. Natural skin contact is required to ensure animals are not exposed to synthetic materials that may cause irritation. Handwashing stations are provided before entry.

What if an animal bites me or stings me?

Stingrays have venomous barbs, but they are extremely unlikely to sting unless provoked. Horseshoe crabs and sea stars are harmless. If you are injured, notify an aquarium staff member immediately. All staff are trained in first aid and will assist you promptly.

Are the touch pools open during special events or holidays?

Yes, the touch pools remain open during most holidays and special events. However, hours may be extended or adjusted. Always check the official website before visiting during peak times like spring break or Christmas.

Can I photograph the animals?

Yes, photography is allowed without flash. Flash can stress the animals. Please do not use selfie sticks or extendable poles, as they may accidentally disturb the water or animals.

Is there an age limit for touching the animals?

No, there is no minimum or maximum age. However, children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Seniors and individuals with mobility challenges can use the lowered touch stations for easier access.

What happens if I accidentally touch the wrong part of the animal?

Staff are present at all times and will gently redirect you. If you touch a sensitive area, such as the underside of a stingray or the mouth of a horseshoe crab, the animal may react by moving away. This is normal. Stop touching immediately and allow the animal to rest.

Can I bring my pet to the touch pools?

No. Pets are not allowed inside the aquarium, except for certified service animals. Service animals must remain on a leash and are not permitted in the touch pool area for the safety of the animals.

Conclusion

Visiting the Oklahoma Aquarium touch pools is more than a fun outingits a transformative encounter with the natural world. In a time when many people, especially children, are disconnected from nature, these tactile experiences offer a rare opportunity to feel, observe, and understand marine life up close. The stingrays smooth skin, the horseshoe crabs ancient armor, the sea stars quiet movementthese are not just sights to see, but sensations to feel and lessons to internalize.

By following the step-by-step guide, adhering to best practices, and utilizing the tools and resources provided, you ensure that your visit is not only enjoyable but also responsible and educational. Real examples show how these moments can ignite curiosity, inspire careers, and spark lifelong conservation values.

Every touch is a connection. Every question is a step toward understanding. Every visitor who leaves with respect for marine life becomes part of a larger movement to protect our oceans.

So plan your visit. Wash your hands. Be patient. Observe. Learn. And remember: you are not just visiting the Oklahoma Aquariumyou are becoming a steward of the sea.