Have an old fish tank lying around? Don’t toss it just yet! With a bit of creativity and some greenery, that forgotten aquarium can become a showstopping terrarium centerpiece. I’ve turned a few of my own into miniature indoor gardens and themed scenes, and it’s honestly one of the most fun (and relaxing) DIY projects I’ve done. Whether you’re into lush jungles, desert vibes, or fairy tale magic, these fish tank terrarium ideas are full of personality and charm. Here are 11 of my favorite ideas to get you started.
1. Jungle-Themed Terrarium
Creating a mini jungle inside a fish tank is both wild and peaceful. I used moisture-loving plants like ferns, moss, and calatheas to mimic that lush, dense rainforest vibe. Layering the plants at different heights helps create that overgrown, untamed feel, and adding some driftwood brings it all together.
What really makes it pop is the humidity. A semi-closed tank with a misting bottle nearby works great. I mist mine daily, and the plants absolutely thrive. It’s also super calming to look at—like having a little pocket of the rainforest on your shelf.
This kind of terrarium is ideal if you love a vibrant, green space that needs regular love and care. Plus, it doubles as a natural humidifier!
2. Desert-Inspired Succulent Garden
For something more low-maintenance, I went with a desert theme in another tank. I filled it with cactus soil, layered in sand and pebbles, and added a mix of succulents and mini cacti. It gave off instant desert vibes without the hassle of constant watering.
I added in a few decorative rocks and even a mini skeleton of a cow skull to give it that Old West feel. This setup loves sunlight, so I keep it near a bright window. The succulents are happy, and I don’t need to water more than once every two weeks.
This is perfect for anyone who wants a sleek, modern look without the daily upkeep. Plus, it’s super forgiving if you forget about it now and then.
3. Fairy Garden Terrarium
I let my imagination run wild with this one—and it turned out absolutely magical. Think mossy ground cover, creeping plants, and tiny toadstool mushrooms made from polymer clay. I added miniature fairy figurines, a little LED lantern, and a pebble path that winds through the plants.
It feels like a scene straight out of a storybook. You can even get creative with recycled materials for fairy doors or miniature houses. Mine includes a little wooden bridge made from twigs and hot glue.
This is a fun project to do with kids or to embrace your inner child. Every time I look at it, I feel like I’m peeking into a secret forest world.
4. Zen Garden Terrarium
When I wanted a calming, meditative vibe, I created a zen garden terrarium. I used white sand as the base, added smooth river rocks, and planted a dwarf bonsai tree in the corner. A small bamboo fountain (battery-powered) added a soft trickle of water that was super soothing.
I also used a mini rake to pattern the sand, and it’s honestly therapeutic. Re-raking the sand became part of my evening wind-down routine. A couple of low-light plants like peace lilies added just enough greenery to soften the look.
This one now lives on my desk, and it’s like a little breath of fresh air during a busy day. Peaceful, clean, and perfect for a quiet space.
5. Aquatic-Themed (Without Water)
This idea was a hit in my beach-themed guest room. I created an underwater look using blue glass pebbles to mimic water, and added faux coral, plastic fish, and shells. It has the ocean feel without the maintenance of an actual aquarium.
Driftwood, starfish, and small lighthouse figurines made it look like a slice of the sea. I even tucked a tiny treasure chest in one corner, which makes guests smile when they notice it.
It’s a playful, lighthearted idea that would be great for a kid’s room, bathroom, or beach house. And since there are no live plants, it’s completely maintenance-free.
6. Mossy Woodland Scene
For a cozy forest floor effect, I went with a mossy woodland theme. I used sheets of cushion moss and added miniature logs, tiny mushrooms, and some twigs arranged like fallen branches. The whole thing feels like something you’d stumble upon in the woods.
I also added a small gnome and a few woodland critter figurines—just for fun. This one works best in a closed or semi-closed tank to retain humidity. I mist it lightly every few days to keep the moss lush and green.
It has that earthy, grounded vibe that’s so calming to look at. And it’s surprisingly easy to care for once it’s set up.
7. Herb Garden Terrarium
I wanted something both pretty and practical, so I turned a shallow tank into a mini herb garden. I planted basil, oregano, and thyme in separate sections, and labeled them with cute chalkboard signs. It lives right by my kitchen window.
Herbs need a bit more airflow, so I left the tank open at the top. A few stones at the bottom helped with drainage, and I water it just enough to keep the soil moist. It’s super handy when I’m cooking—I just snip and sprinkle.
Not only does it make the kitchen smell amazing, but it adds a charming, rustic touch to the counter. Plus, it saves me money on grocery-store herbs!
8. Reptile-Inspired Dry Terrarium
This one started as a quirky idea and turned out so cool. I created a dry terrarium with desert plants, rocks, and faux reptiles like lizards and snakes. The kids are obsessed with it, and guests always do a double-take.
It has a dry, arid vibe—similar to the succulent setup, but with more character. I added some faux bones and desert-themed decor, and used warm colors like terracotta and rust.
If you love reptiles or want something a bit edgy and unique, this terrarium adds a wild, unexpected flair to your home.
9. Minimalist Monochrome Terrarium
For my modern living room, I kept things sleek and simple with a monochrome terrarium. I used white stones, pale green air plants, and matte black planters. Everything stayed within a tight color palette, which made it look so elegant.
I kept the layout symmetrical and clean, and it turned out like a piece of living art. A few metallic accents (like a small gold sculpture) gave it just the right amount of contrast.
This idea is great if your style leans minimal or Scandinavian. It’s low-fuss and looks polished no matter where you place it.
10. Tropical Paradise
I wanted something bold and vibrant, so I designed a tropical paradise inside a fish tank. I used bromeliads, ferns, and colorful air plants to get that lush, island vibe. A mini tiki hut and faux palm tree brought it to life.
It does best with lots of indirect sunlight and regular misting. I also added a few tiny hammock props and seashells for flair. It’s like a little vacation scene right in my hallway.
This one always makes me smile, especially on gloomy days. It’s bright, cheerful, and full of personality.
11. Book Nook Terrarium
This one’s for my fellow bookworms. I created a cozy literary nook inside the tank, complete with tiny books, a miniature armchair, and even faux reading glasses. Low-light plants like pothos and fittonia gave it a warm, inviting touch.
It lives on a bookshelf in my reading corner, and it fits right in with the vibe. Every detail—from the scrolls to the candle props—adds to the charm.
If you love books and plants, this is such a fun way to blend your interests. It feels like a tiny world where someone is always curled up with a good story.
Tips for Creating a Stunning Fish Tank Terrarium
Before starting any of these designs, think about your tank type—open or closed—and what kind of plants you’ll be using. Always create a drainage layer using gravel or pebbles at the bottom, followed by activated charcoal to keep things fresh.
Lighting is key, too. Some plants need bright light, while others thrive in shade. And when it comes to watering, less is usually more—especially for closed terrariums.
Placement matters just as much as design. Set your terrarium somewhere it can shine, and watch it transform the room.
Final Thoughts
Turning an old fish tank into a terrarium is one of the most satisfying projects you can do. Besides upcycling, you’re also creating something totally unique and personal. Whether it’s a tropical escape, a fairy garden, or a zen retreat, there’s something magical about building your own little world.
If you try any of these ideas, I’d love to see how they turn out. Snap a photo, share your favorite, and inspire someone else to give their empty fish tank a second life!