Florida Aquarium
A conservation-focused aquarium dedicated to marine rescue, rehabilitation, and education, showcasing diverse aquatic life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush
Florida Aquarium
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A conservation-focused aquarium dedicated to marine rescue, rehabilitation, and education, showcasing diverse aquatic life.
"This aquarium has come a long way! Incredible displays and a focus on wildlife rescue make it a great trip."
🎯 Support the Mission
Your admission helps fund rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Learn about the animals' stories!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the exhibits and rehabilitation areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Winter the Dolphin's Legacy
Dolphin Habitat
See the inspiring home of Winter, the star of 'Dolphin Tale,' and learn about her incredible story of survival and rehabilitation.
Interactive Animal Encounters
Various Exhibits
Get up close with rescued dolphins, sea turtles, otters, and stingrays. Many visitors rave about the interactive experiences.
Behind-the-Scenes Hospital Tours
Rehabilitation Areas
Gain insight into the vital work of marine rescue and rehabilitation through public viewing areas of the hospital.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Focus on Rescue & Rehabilitation
Plan for Crowds & Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Support the Mission
Your admission helps fund rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Learn about the animals' stories!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the exhibits and rehabilitation areas.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Florida can be hot and humid. Bring a water bottle or purchase drinks to stay cool.
📸 Capture the Moments
Plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the rescued animals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Support the Mission
Your admission helps fund rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Learn about the animals' stories!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the exhibits and rehabilitation areas.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Florida can be hot and humid. Bring a water bottle or purchase drinks to stay cool.
📸 Capture the Moments
Plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the rescued animals.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You can easily spend several hours exploring the exhibits and learning about the animals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Florida Aquarium for its commitment to marine rescue and rehabilitation, offering an educational and inspiring experience beyond typical aquariums. The facility has improved significantly, with manageable parking and beautiful intercoastal views. While some note it's not a traditional aquarium, its focus on conservation and the well-being of its animals is highly appreciated.
"We had a great time here. I will say, there weren’t quite as many exhibits as I had hoped for the price we paid. We did see a great quality dolphin presentation, though, that was quite close and I felt was almost worth the whole cost of admission. I just didn’t think it took as long for us to get through as I had thought. Overall, though, a great and VERY educational experience. They clearly spend a lot of their time and money on rehabilitation work for their animals, and I felt great that my money went towards that work."
Abby Shores
"Clearwater Marine Aquarium is such a special place to visit, especially for families. It’s not your typical aquarium—it’s more focused on marine rescue, rehabilitation, and education, which makes the experience really meaningful. You get to see rescued dolphins, sea turtles, otters, and other animals up close, and learn their unique stories.
The facility is well laid out, with interactive exhibits, educational presentations, and a great view of the rehabilitation areas. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. Kids especially love the dolphin encounters and the hands-on learning zones.
There’s so much to see and do that you can easily spend the majority of a day here, taking your time with the exhibits and enjoying the different experiences. You also leave knowing your visit helps support rescue and conservation efforts. Overall, a must-visit if you’re in Clearwater—both fun and inspiring!"
Tash G
"This has been my daughters dream..the facility was very nice and big. The staff was very informative and you had good access to all rescue animals. My daughter has had many dolphin experiences but her dream was to have one interact with her. Well she did! The animals were very interactive! They were happy, healthy and lots of fun! We would do it all over again in a heartbeat 💓 this is where my daughter has always wanted to work and now she is more motivated than ever since this experience."
Stacy Salazar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Florida Aquarium is located at 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL 33602. It's easily accessible by car, with a parking garage on-site. Public transportation options and ride-sharing services are also available.
Yes, there is a covered parking garage available for a fee. This makes parking much more manageable, especially during busy times.
Yes, the Florida Aquarium is about a 45-minute to an hour's drive from Clearwater, depending on traffic. It's a popular day trip destination from Clearwater Beach. +1
While specific routes can vary, Tampa offers public transportation options. It's recommended to check the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) website for the most current routes and schedules.
From I-4 West, take Exit 1 for US-41 S/Tamiami Trail. Continue on US-41 S and turn right onto Channelside Drive. The aquarium will be on your left. From I-75 South, take Exit 256 for US-41 S/Dale Mabry Highway. Turn left onto Channelside Drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but it's recommended to check the official Florida Aquarium website for the most up-to-date pricing. Look out for potential discounts, like the 50% employer discount mentioned by a visitor.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended. Some visitors have shared links for discounts, so check social media highlights or the aquarium's official channels.
Visitors have mentioned employer discounts and potential savings through links shared on social media. It's always a good idea to check the aquarium's website or social media pages for any current promotions.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the Florida Aquarium's official website for the most accurate and up-to-date hours of operation before your visit.
Absolutely! The Florida Aquarium is a fantastic destination for a day trip, offering a variety of exhibits and experiences that can easily fill several hours.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Coral Reef, where you can see sharks and rays, and the Wetlands Trail, showcasing Florida's diverse aquatic life. The Journey to the Pacific exhibit is also a highlight.
Yes, the aquarium offers various interactive experiences, including touching stingrays and educational presentations. Some visitors have had memorable dolphin interactions.
The Florida Aquarium is very family-friendly, with interactive exhibits and educational programs that engage children. It's a great way to beat the heat and humidity for a family outing.
While the movie 'Dolphin Tale' was inspired by Winter the dolphin, the primary filming location and rehabilitation center was the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, not the Florida Aquarium. However, the Florida Aquarium does have its own marine life and conservation efforts. +1
The Florida Aquarium hosts various events, including holiday celebrations and educational programs. They also offer unique experiences like yoga with dolphins.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafeteria on-site where you can take a break and grab a bite to eat. This is convenient for families and those spending a full day at the aquarium.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the aquarium. It's best to check their specific policy on their website, but the on-site cafeteria is a convenient option.
The cafeteria typically offers a range of options suitable for families, including kid-friendly meals and snacks. They also have special themed meals for holidays.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the animals.
The balcony facing the intercoastal waterway offers beautiful views. Many exhibits, like the coral reef and shark tanks, provide stunning photographic opportunities.
For professional photography or videography, it's advisable to contact the Florida Aquarium's media relations department in advance to inquire about their policies and any necessary permits.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around attractions like aquariums for safety and animal welfare reasons. Always check local regulations and the aquarium's specific policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family visit, consider arriving early to avoid the biggest crowds and the peak heat. Pack snacks and drinks (or be prepared to use the on-site cafeteria) and allow plenty of time for the kids to explore and enjoy each exhibit. The staff are known for being friendly and informative, adding to the positive family experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize value, plan to spend a good portion of the day exploring all the exhibits. The on-site cafeteria offers dining options, but packing some of your own snacks can help reduce costs. Consider visiting during off-peak times if possible, as this might correlate with slightly lower admission prices or fewer crowds, enhancing your overall experience without additional expense.
🌊 Marine Life Enthusiasts
Take your time to read the informational panels and engage with the staff; they are often knowledgeable about the animals' individual stories and conservation efforts. Don't miss the opportunity to learn about the vital work happening behind the scenes in the rehabilitation areas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Conservation: Rescue and Rehabilitation
Visitors can observe the rehabilitation areas, offering a unique glimpse into the daily operations of a marine hospital. This focus on conservation and education makes a visit to the Florida Aquarium a deeply meaningful experience. It's a chance to learn about the challenges facing marine life and the efforts being made to protect them, fostering a greater appreciation for our oceans.
This commitment to rescue and rehabilitation means that many of the animals you see have a story of survival. Learning these stories adds a powerful emotional layer to the visit, connecting guests to the animals on a more profound level. It's a testament to the dedication of the aquarium's staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to give these creatures a second chance.
Exploring the Diverse Aquatic Worlds
Beyond the larger marine life, the aquarium also dedicates space to smaller, yet equally fascinating, inhabitants. Explore the intricate details of invertebrate life and discover the surprising beauty of creatures often overlooked. The Wetlands Trail specifically highlights the critical importance of Florida's freshwater and estuarine habitats, showcasing the unique biodiversity that thrives within these vital ecosystems.
Each exhibit is thoughtfully curated to be both educational and visually stunning, providing an immersive experience. The aquarium aims to educate visitors about the interconnectedness of marine life and the importance of conservation efforts across different habitats. Whether you're fascinated by apex predators or the delicate balance of a coral reef, there's something to captivate everyone.
Beyond the Exhibits: Special Experiences
The aquarium also serves as a distinctive venue for special events, including weddings and private parties. Imagine celebrating amidst the mesmerizing underwater world, creating an unforgettable backdrop for any occasion. This offers a unique alternative to conventional event spaces, appealing to those looking for something truly special.
Furthermore, the aquarium is committed to community engagement through educational programs and events. They often host holiday-themed activities, like special meals for their animals during Thanksgiving, showcasing their dedication to the well-being of their residents year-round.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit