I visited this store today (3/13/26) and was genuinely excited because I had heard nothing but great things about it and how knowledgeable the staff was. My daughter recently received a betta fish for her birthday, and I wanted to upgrade her tank with driftwood and plants. Since I'm new to this, I was looking forward to asking the "experts" a few questions. Unfortunately, that excitement disappeared the moment I walked in. As soon as I entered, the older gentleman behind the counter looked directly at me and then immediately turned away without saying a word. He wasn't helping anyone at the time. I walked around the store for a while and noticed a young woman cleaning items nearby. Not once did she greet me or ask if I needed help. When I was looking at the driftwood display, she walked by, so I asked a question. She gave me what felt like a dirty look, gave a very quick answer, and walked away. I initially thought maybe she was busy helping other customers, but that didn't seem to be the case. What made the experience worse was what happened next. While I was still browsing near the entrance, several other customers walked in. Every single one of them was greeted by the gentleman behind the counter. I hate to even bring this up, but it left me wondering why my experience was so different. I'm a Hispanic male with tattoos, and every other customer who was greeted appeared to be white with no visible tattoos. I truly hope that wasn't the reason, but I honestly can't think of another explanation for the difference in treatment. Either way, it was disappointing. I had specifically chosen to visit a local specialty shop because I wanted the advice and expertise that comes with it. Instead, I left feeling unwelcome and will likely just go to a big box store instead--something I was hoping to avoid. I hope this isn't the normal experience for customers, but it was certainly mine today. read more

Friendly service , wealth of knowledge if you need any advice and so much inventory to choose from. Def my first choice read more

Cool spot to bring the kids (on a budget). Also, nice activity to do on a rainy or cold day. The fish were colorful and unique and fun for the kids to look at. There are also some turtles outside (back of parking lot). Located in an interesting dome structure (saltwater fish is on the second floor). Parents: I'd avoid a stroller, if possible. It's a bit cramped in here plus it can get crowded. Also, there are stairs to get to the top floor. Small parking lot in the back but also additional parking in the strip mall. Check out Uncommon Objects (interesting antique store) next door. read more

This days journey takes me to the states capital, and in Austin I stumbled upon a wonderful fish store, actually a great home aquarium store. "Austin Aqua-Dome", is a full aquarium shop of items needed for in home aquariums. They have exotic fishes and common fishes they have some I've never seen before. If you just want to come in and see if aquariums are in your future, this is the place you need to look for. The staff is super helpful and knowledgeable about what fish will be best for your aquarium. I highly recommend this place for your aquarium needs. read more

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We stopped in to see what the Aqua-Dome has available. The variety of fish, plants, and supplies are unmatched. While gawking at the salt-water tanks, we even had a nice chat about fire worms (I think) and tank management. Connect with these guys if you are going to make an aquarium your new hobby. read more

Austin Aqua-Dome - Aquarium. - Pet Stores Near Me - Austin, Texas

This store is overpriced and the fish died overnight. They do not add air to the bags they send you with so, according to the employee I talked to on the phone, they recommend only acclimating them in the bag for 20 minutes or they will die. The drive home was longer than that. They won't take ownership/refund for the fish dying in the water they provided while the fish acclimated to the new tank. read more

really cool spot even if you're not in the market for an exotic fish. they even have stingray, starfish, etc. feels like a mini aquarium with an abundance of cool decor for the tanks and necessities to get it started read more

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Popped in today to grab some rose quartz rocks for my tank. I had my 82 yr old mother with me, she walks with a cane and was struggling to get her balance today. The very nice gentleman that's usually at register, quickly grabbed her a chair, placed it in front of one of the amazing aquariums so she could sit and rest while I quickly grabbed what I needed and wanted lol. He then proceeded to carry my items to the car so I could assist my mother. The sweetest, kindest gesture, and exemplary customer service!!! read more

The fish selection was huge!! The workers were very kind and knowledgable. I thought the tanks were very well maintained. There was also a tank with one sting ray. It was a fun store to even just walk around. read more

Austin Aqua-Dome - Puffer fish - Pet Stores Near Me - Austin, Texas

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3.5 We had come next door to the Uncommon Things Antique Shop but we had a fish enthusiast want to come here for some salt water fish. Parking is a bit of a premium with the store next door but there's parking in front of and behind the shop. THe main store is the big blue dome that is two stories. Now those stairs can be daunting but if you end up going up and down them a few times it's a decent work out. I personally went down stairs after looking at the saltwater tanks and the freshwater ones were more my speed. There was a variety of fish, even more than the salt water ones. I will note that the tanks had a lot of algae in them growing on the walls of the tanks. Not sure if that's normal. Out back is a pond and koi section. There's one for turtles as well. In the farthest back you can see water flowers. read more

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Great local fish store that has a massive collection of both fresh and saltwater fish and critters. I stopped by after a visit to Austin on my drive back down home. The store looks smaller from the outside but going inside, there were rows and rows of tanks as well as a good stock of dry goods and equipment. Staff were all really friendly and I ended up picking out a feather duster worm and a mushroom coral from their sort of bargain bin. Both made the trip down to Houston and have been doing well in my tank the past 2 weeks so I definitely think their live stock is well cared for. read more

Those who know... know. The best fish store in all of TEXAS. Best selection. Best prices. Best staff. No nonsense advice that is practical and honest. If you are into African cichlids, goldfish or marine corals and fish, this is the place. The pond section is off the hook! My favorite fish pet store on earth. read more

What an incredible aquarium shop! The friendly staff creates a welcoming atmosphere. With an amazing variety of tropical freshwater and saltwater fish, the fair prices make it accessible for everyone. It's a place where families can bond and create memories--especially when feeding the turtles. This experience is truly worthwhile. read more

Austin Aqua-Dome - Fish - Pet Stores Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Such a cool place! so many fish and they all look healthy and active. The curious little sting ray who really wants to see you was my favorite part. read more

Good quality and variety of fish.. had to wait a while for help but they are always busy..

I love that this store is so unique. It has old Austin charm and was such a great shopping experience. It's tucked away between the auto body shops that you almost drive by it. When you're inside, you can see the papier-mâché kind of texture to the dome. It really makes it feel like you are shopping in a little grotto of sorts. The assortment of fish is really good and they all seem very healthy compared to some other stores. The first floor is fresh water and the second floor houses the salt water fish. The people working there are knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. A tip I'll share is to hold your bag from the bottom. The bag of fish I bought was a little wet and was bagged in a little paper bag, so my fish fell out of the bottom. They seem ok from the fall, though. read more

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This place is AMAZING. Great selection for both fresh and saltwater fish. The variety of plants they have is astounding. Special shout out to Hunter- he is the best; very knowledgeable about the fish, not to mention a ray of sunshine. Thank you for always being so helpful Hunter! read more

This place is awesome for anyone starting your first fishtank to aquarists! It is not your typical aquarium store. There is a wide variety of fish, coral, and equipment for anyone's budget ranging $-$$$. There is saltwater fish upstairs and freshwater fish downstairs. Would recommend going on a weekday instead of a weekend to avoid crowds. I cannot speak enough about the staff! Most of the staff have been there for 15+ years and are enthusiasts themselves. They never rush you and are always there to help you. They also love sharing info and care tips. Hunter was very friendly and helpful; we got to understand more of his specialty: saltwater fishes! read more

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Nice people, good selection, chill location. We have bought a number of fish and critters from them and we have been very satisfied!

They are a great business with a lot of knowledge. Great amazing tanks as well. Would highly recommend.

An incredible local fish shop with a great array of aquatic creatures. I purchased aquarium plants from here a few months ago and they are doing great. Gary, the owner, is friendly and helpful. This place is an amazing example of quirky Old Austin charm and a great business to buy from too. Highly recommend! read more

awesome section! Great service. Highly recommend. guys been around for a while and stable of the ATX aquarium community.

They always have a huge variety of fresh and saltwater fish. They're very knowledgeable about all of them and give good recommendations. read more

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We've been wanting to go to this fish shop for a while. It pains me to say... meh ‍. Its cool bc it truly is a big dome. There are tons of tanks, awesome salt water tanks upstairs, and lots of tools and accessories. Kinda pricy, but the hobby itself isn't the cheapest. Def wasn't the cleanest, but pet stores are generally a little messy, I guess. The tanks aren't the prettiest to look at. I have def seen more dead fish in fish stores than I did here, but there were a few dead ones . The staff seemed super busy, but we were assisted in a timely manner. They also had some fat tadpoles which were fun. I haven't seen those anywhere else. Honestly, we probably won't be back. If we loved the place we'd be happy to make that trek, but it was just eh. read more

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Come here for all of your fish and plant needs! They are amazing and have such a nice selection! Dont listen to all the negative reviews as they are coming from very unprepared/uneducated people that throw a fit when they dont get their hand held by everyone! Dont leave a bad review just cause you didnt look into anything and expect the workers to do it for you! They are busy and working! Come in prepared! read more

Interesting place. I was rather excited to attempt to get started on my two back yard ponds - ready for plants, mosquito fish etc. i went to Aqua dome in order to get assistance as this is my first experience with finishing out the project. Choose because Aqua-Dome was local vs driving up to Hill Country. I entered the business and proceeded to look for someone to assist. They were busy so I didn't mind the wait. After about twenty minutes a younger lady asked me if I needed help. I explained what my project was and asked for assistance. Response was its your personal preference. I asked for recommendations on plants - response - they are out back - you will have to go look. Then when I asked about fish - kinda same response. Sadly disappointed and it certainly killed the joy of the project for the moment. Out loud thinking - business must be great as the establishment doesn't need new clients. In addition, if your not interested in being helpful - should probably leave the customers to someone else. read more

Took my daughter there to pick out a beta fish and they had really good options. All the fish looks healthy and well taken care of. My daughter was obsessed and now wants a giant aquarium lol. read more

Austin Aqua-Dome - Beta fish purchased at the Austin aqua dome - Pet Stores Near Me - Austin, Texas

This place is AQUA-MAZING! We didn't go to purchase anything, just to look around and it was great! I felt like I was at the aquarium. So much to see, two floors, SO. MANY. FISH! Every sea stars, little crabs, and coral. read more

Austin Aqua-Dome - Pet Stores Near Me - Austin, Texas

Awesome store with a great selection and even better staff. Always willing to help, always provide great advice. read more

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Best place to get your fish and fish knowledge! Each staff hold vast amounts of knowledge about their fish. They will answer all your questions, don't be scared to approach them, especially Jeremy! This will forever be my place to get fish. They have a great selection of fresh and saltwater fish. read more

Austin Aqua-Dome - Pet Stores Near Me - Austin, Texas

I have literally nothing but positive things to say about this place. The staff have been amazing and taught me SO MUCH! They are knowledgeable about fish and corals/plants in a way you cannot find at many places. I have visited for years and years and years - over a decade actually - and even though I no longer live in Austin, I come here every single time I come through town. An absolute gem with amazing humans and gorgeous fish! read more

I love bringing my kids to see the turtles and all the many fish! We come here to buy beta fish when ours die of old age eventually. I want to get a big aquarium one day and enjoy dreaming of it every time I come visit. We usually come here at least twice a month! Gorgeous fish and they really are knowledgeable about their products and the fish. Good prices too! I enjoy the puffer fish the best after the beta! read more

Went on a Saturday & it was PACKED. I'm a little sad for how small the place is, but they have an impressive amount of different species. Staff is super sweet and very informative. There was a lot of entertainment going on for children when my husband & I went. Very interactive throughout as far as being able to feed & touch some of the animals. It's a great place to bring your kids or a date! read more

Austin Aqua-Dome - Saw this little guy by the entrance and I took him on for a staring match - Pet Stores Near Me - Austin, Texas

Immediately, you can tell these tanks have been cycled and well taken care of. We were greeted and people seemed friendly. Such a wide selection and I am hoping to come back for a peapuffer fish when they are back in stock. We called beforehand and the phone was promptly answered. They informed us that our dog was able to come in too which is always a plus. Great store!! read more

This store had me at discus! They are simply stunning! Bought my husband a 60 gallon tank for his birthday and we have been having a fun time filling it with tropical fish. This store has a huge selection of both fresh and saltwater fish, loaches, plants, Etc. The selection is so vast that you can go into a buyer's frenzy! True that! Need to go and get my "buy-on." Peace out! read more

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This place was awesome! I've never been in a fish store that sold seahorses!! Not to mention anemones, sea urchins, sea stars, multiple kinds of shrimp, puffer fish, etc. The variety of fish there is amazing. We must have spent a good hour or more inside, just admiring all the different species of fresh and saltwater fish. The store employees were attentive and helpful. This is the best fish store I have ever been to! read more

If I could give this place a 0 I would. I have been coming here for years and only because it is quicker than driving to Tiny or others. Literally 90% of the animals I buy from here dies almost immediately. They also keep betas in tanks that are not beta safe. The tanks are consistently dirty and many have ick or some sort of disease. Also the manager she is one of the rudest ppl I have ever met. The other stores it very easy to talk to ppl that work there. Any time I have spoken to her or see her speaking to anyone she seems annoyed like why are we asking questions. Take the extra time drive to tiny aquatics aqua tech you get better fish and nicer people read more

Best place to get fish in Austin. They've got tons of fresh and salt water fish that'll be sure to make your tank great again. They also have a wide variety of pond fish but their pond plant selection is a little low whenever I visit. The staff is also very knowledgeable on fishies. If you want a funny shirt they sell one that says "kiss my wrasse" funny stuff. read more

I'm really surprised at some of the negative comments on here as I've been to the Aqua dome several times and had a very different experience. I'm a first time aquarium owner and the staff has been friendly and very informative about what fish are appropriate. They've got a great variety as well. The last time I went in there I almost purchased a new fish but the employee actually encouraged me to come in and have my water tested for free before spending more money just to ensure things were healthy before growing my fish community which I found to be really impressive- most places would just take that sale on the spot. They have a great selection of aquatic plants as well! read more

Great customer service! I am a first time aquarium owner and the staff at Austin Aqua-Dome has been very patient answering my questions and great in helping me get my aquarium to a good state. For example, they helped me pick out "heartier" fish for my freshwater aquarium that were more likely to last through the initial ammonium and nitrite spikes. A month after purchasing those first fish, they were doing well, so I came back to purchase more. I brought in a water sample and they told me the aquarium still had nitrites, so they talked me through the steps I needed to take to get the level to zero and told me not to get any new fish until then. Without their help, I'd probably have bought more fish and ended up with a lot of dead fish and no idea why. Beyond great customer service, they also have a wide selection of fish to choose from. For COVID-19, they are limiting the amount of people in the store at once, which I appreciate. We had to wait in line on a Saturday to get in, but we didn't wait long. Also, they have a turtle and koi pond out back. This last time I purchased a bag of food for $1 so my six-year-old son could feed the turtle and koi, and he absolutely loved it. All in all, I will definitely be coming back here for all my aquarium needs! read more