Ultimate Guide to Exploring Florida’s Aquariums

Looking for a great family-friendly day trip? How about visiting an aquarium? These attractions are educational and fun, offering a much-needed air-conditioned reprieve from the sweltering Florida spring and summer days.

How Aquariums Have Evolved

The first public aquarium was established in the London Zoo in 1853. Following closely was P. T. Barnum, who launched the first American aquarium within his Barnum’s American Museum in New York City just three years later. Although these early exhibits were modest compared to today’s standards, they initiated a fascination with ocean exploration.

Fast forward to 1947, and Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs in Florida. This innovative underwater theater, featuring just 18 seats, captivated audiences with its live mermaid shows, providing an extraordinary glimpse into a mysterious underwater realm.

Simultaneously, pioneering diver Jacques Cousteau was co-developing the aqua-lung, enabling him to delve deeper into underwater exploration. His groundbreaking publication, The Silent World: A Story of Undersea Discovery and Adventure, released in 1953, solidified his status as a household name in oceanic explorations.

Through the years, individuals like Perry and Cousteau transformed our understanding of the ocean, fostering a deep-seated affection for its magical inhabitants. Today’s aquariums feature cutting-edge displays, larger tanks, and unique viewing platforms that facilitate face-to-face encounters and interactive touch pool experiences.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Home to stars Winter and Hope from the Dolphin Tale films, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is an essential visit for movie fans. This educational and entertaining attraction is perfect for families, although a significant portion of the facility is outdoors and may be impacted by weather conditions. While the admission price is reasonable, consider budgeting extra for interactions with the marine stars.

Miami Seaquarium

While not as large as some marine theme parks in Central Florida, the Miami Seaquarium still provides thrilling dolphin and killer whale shows. Additionally, it features exhibits showcasing sea turtles, seals, sea lions, and the beloved Florida manatee, making for a delightful day of exploration.

SEA LIFE Orlando

Situated on International Drive, Florida’s newest aquarium, SEA LIFE Orlando, invites guests to traverse through a stunning underwater 360-degree tunnel with breathtaking views of sharks and turtles. Additionally, visitors can interact with hard-shell shore creatures in the attraction’s Rock Pool Area.

SeaWorld Orlando

Although SeaWorld Orlando is more of a marine theme park than a traditional aquarium, it boasts indoor exhibits offering unique glimpses of penguins, sharks, and turtles. Notable exhibits include Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, Shark Encounter, Wild Arctic, and Turtle Trek. Moreover, there is a Manta Aquarium featuring underwater views of Shamu and dolphins.

Note: Admission to SeaWorld Orlando is necessary to access these exhibits.

The Florida Aquarium in Tampa

The Florida Aquarium spans over 150,000 square feet of air-conditioned learning and entertainment! The venue features various tanks, including the Coral Reef Gallery, which presents one of the globe’s most exquisite and diverse ecosystems typically reserved for expert divers. Additionally, there is an outdoor area, Explore A Shore, which provides a two-acre wet-play zone for kids.

Tip: This attraction is an excellent place to cool off while waiting to board your cruise from the Port of Tampa.

Epcot’s Future World at Disney World

Home to Florida’s largest saltwater aquarium, which holds an astounding 5.7 million gallons of water, the attraction found within Disney World was originally designed as an underwater exploration center. It has since undergone reimagination and has been renamed The Seas with Nemo and Friends. Alongside the Nemo and Friends ride, it features the technologically advanced and popular Turtle Talk with Crush.

Note: Admission to Epcot is required to enjoy The Seas with Nemo and Friends. This is a Fastpass+ attraction. Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance.

The Controversy

Marine theme parks and aquariums have faced criticism from animal rights organizations regarding the treatment of animals in performances. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the acquisition and display of specimens in exhibits.

Despite these valid concerns, it is crucial to acknowledge the positive contributions these facilities make. Their rescue and rehabilitation programs save numerous animals each year, while simultaneously educating the public about marine life conservation.