Originally conceived by a coalition led by the Junior League of Corpus Christi, and named the Gulf Coast Zoological and Botanical Society, the organization changed its name to the Corpus Christi Aquarium Association in 1978, and then to Texas State Aquarium Association in 1986 after the Texas State Legislature designated it the "State Aquarium of Texas".

[2] After more than 20 years of fundraising, planning, and building, the Texas State Aquarium opened its first exhibit to the public on July 6, 1990.

In 1993, it became a federally permitted animal rehabilitation facility, and in 1995, it was accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

The president and chief executive officer of the aquarium is Jesse Gilbert.

Exhibits may include the following: In addition to regular tours, the Texas State Aquarium offers many other educational programs.