Austin Aqua-Dome is one of those long-standing Austin institutions that inspires fierce loyalty despite its rough edges. Housed in a distinctive, multi-level building that's become a local landmark, this mom-and-pop fish store packs an enormous variety of aquatic life across both freshwater and saltwater into a space that feels more like an aquarium adventure than a retail stop. Families bring their kids just to wander and look, and hobbyists drive an hour or more to shop here instead of hitting big-box alternatives.
The freshwater selection is deep and varied. African cichlids are stocked in abundance — reviewers say they have them "out the wazoo" — alongside staples like tetras, platies, angelfish, and a strong lineup of plecos and algae eaters. Specialty fish like arowanas and fancy goldfish round out the inventory for collectors looking for something unusual.
On the planted tank side, live aquatic plants are available and draw dedicated buyers. The saltwater section is a destination in its own right. Soft corals, mushrooms, long-tentacle anemones, and reef livestock fill the upper floor, and the store's ray tank at feeding time is a genuine spectacle.
Staff member Hunter has earned a devoted following for his detailed, patient guidance on reef keeping — walking newcomers through anemone care, coral selection, and saltwater fundamentals with the kind of depth that builds real confidence. Outdoor ponds add another layer of character, and the store offers free water testing for customers who bring in samples. The owner, described as an older gentleman who's always present and eager to help, anchors the operation with decades of knowledge.
The honest caveat: customer service from some younger staff members is inconsistent, and the building's interior could use better lighting and cosmetic updates. But the fish health is consistently praised, prices are considered fair for a specialty shop, and the sheer breadth of stock keeps Austin's aquarium community coming back. It's a store built on selection and passion — imperfect, authentic, and deeply rooted in the city's aquatic hobby scene.
Christina
3 reviews
New to salt water tanks! I came here looking to get my first anemone and some soft corals. I was having a really hard time because when you read things online it can be overwhelming (different types of anemones & corals and their requirements). I have kept fresh water tanks all my life, now with a 75 & 15 gallon that I currently have. But I am totally overwhelmed and feel utterly hopeless when it comes to salt water! But I have always wanted one. When we came here there was a lot to look at but we met a staff member at the cash register named Hunter and asked for help. He immediately took off to come help us! Not only did he show me all my options but also explained in detail about what I should be looking for, how to care for them and what I might find easier as a beginner! He answered all my questions in great detail and made our whole experience SO relaxed. All my fears of my current saltwater tank melts away when he was assisting me and my husband who is new to the hobby. We couldn't stop talking about how amazing our experience was on our way home! We just went back there again to get my first coral and again Hunter was there, offering his vast knowledge and made us again feel relaxed about our first coral purchase. THANK YOU HUNTER! I'd still be lost without your help. We will be back and we just signed up for your membership program! Best place ever.
Donovan Randolph
4 reviews
Dirty tanks, cramped area, confusing flow, corals surviving but not thriving
Kaitlyn Moran (ZeArtPit)
24 reviews
The staff are rude except for the Older Man and Woman there. They’re always nice. But love the fish. Unfortunately I don’t think I want to come here too often anymore. I could only suggest that the younger employees need to stop being so prissy towards customers and to work on their customer service skills. Stop talking smack about your customers or laughing at them... If you hate the job, try a different job.
Aleesha Shrew
42 reviews
Fabulous place to explore! All your aquatic needs (:
Jenifer Starks
17 reviews
Kudos to a business that has been around as long as this one has! That being said...it shows. The building is so dim on the first floor you can hardly see anything, and the fish are a bit overpriced, in my opinion. Nice place to go for something to do, for sure. Just needs a fresh paint job on the walls, ceiling and rusty stairs, and some better lighting. But do I recommend? Definitely.
Matt (ActuallyUnsure)
19 reviews
This place will exceed your expectations. Great staff and an amazing selection of aquatic organisms.
Dishary Hossain
30 reviews
Cute spot to walk around. However, the customer service is spotty. They dont bother to actually help you. Had to flag a young lady that works there and asked about aquatic plants. Told me the bare minimum, sped through some explanation, and left. Seemed she was more concerned with getting out of the interaction than actually helping her customers. Depressing!
Taking Fear & Loathing Out of Dispatch Jenny Lynch
10 reviews
Despite the closeness of some big brand box stores to where we live, we drive a little further to get our fish and supplies from a trusted source, the staff at Aquadome. Their fish are healthy and the staff really care about your needs as well as those of the fish.
Manoj Nachimuthu
27 reviews
We loved it
Bill Noble
15 reviews
Great selection of Fish and supplies. The owner and staff are very knowledgeable. Bring your tank water in and they’ll analyze it for you.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (512) 442-1400 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Austin Aqua-Dome.
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1604 Fort View Rd, Austin, TX 78704
February 7, 2026
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