The Florida Aquarium is located in downtown Tampa on the waterfront, conveniently on the streetcar line and between 2 cruise ship terminals. The 200,000 sq. ft. air-conditioned space has more than 8,000 animals from Florida and beyond. Start in Wetlands Trail with its mangrove forest and large aviary with free flying birds. See river otters, alligators, sea turtles, stingrays, wondrous seahorses, unusual bat fish, reef fish, eels, sharks and more throughout the aquarium! In addition, Journey to Madagascar features animals endemic to that unique island such as ring tailed lemurs and hissing cockroaches. Enjoy three touch pools: Stingrays, Moon Jellies, and animals with no bones. Other highlights are the 500,000-gallon Coral Reef habitat, Waves of Wonder gallery that shares the Aquarium's impressive conservation story. Outdoor Plaza features Splash Pad (with wet and dry play zones for small children), 4-D Theater (for 3-D short films that have surprise elements) plus South African Penguin habitat. All included with general admission. While at the Aquarium, check out the rooftop deck with harbor views!
Wild Dolphin Cruise is available at an additional cost. An onsite restaurant, Café Ray, offers beverages and grab & go items (snacks, sandwiches, salads) and a hot grill (hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, chicken fingers, etc.)
The Florida Aquarium is a 501(C)(3) not-for-profit attraction devoted to entertaining, educating, and inspiring visitors to be advocates for marine life conservation. Open daily 9:30 to 5:00. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Learn more at www.flaquarium.org.