Discover the Wonders of the Ocean at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Explore the wonders of marine life at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium in Sarasota, Florida – a premier destination for ocean enthusiasts and families alike.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium in Sarasota, Florida is a captivating destination for tourists, offering a unique blend of marine education and stunning aquatic exhibits. Experience the magic of the ocean through interactive displays and engaging programs suitable for all ages.
A brief summary to Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
- 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, City Island, Florida, 34236, US
- +1941-388-4441
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit.
- Take advantage of the interactive exhibits and educational programs for a more engaging experience.
- Check the schedule for animal feeding times and special presentations.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot to explore on foot.
- Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're traveling by car, start on US-19 S heading south. Merge onto FL-693 S (Tamiami Trail) toward Sarasota. Continue on Tamiami Trail for approximately 30 miles. Once you reach Sarasota, turn right onto Ken Thompson Parkway. Follow the signs for Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, which will be on your left at 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy. Parking is available on site, and there may be a fee depending on the event.
-
Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, take a bus from your current location to the Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) bus terminal. Once at the terminal, take Route 9 (Sarasota to Siesta Key) and disembark at the nearest stop to Ken Thompson Parkway. From there, you can walk approximately 0.5 miles to reach Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium at 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy. Please check the SCAT website for current schedules and fares.
-
Bicycle
For those who enjoy cycling, the area around Sarasota has bike-friendly routes. You can follow the Legacy Trail, which connects to various neighborhoods in Sarasota. Make your way toward Ken Thompson Parkway, where you can lock up your bike at the designated bike racks at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. Ensure you wear a helmet and follow local traffic laws.
-
Taxi/Ride Share
Another convenient option is to use a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Simply input 'Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236' as your destination. The cost will vary depending on your pickup location, but it is typically reasonable for short distances within the Sarasota area.
Discover more about Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
North Lido Beach Park
1.6 km
Discover tranquility and natural beauty at North Lido Beach Park, the perfect seaside retreat in Sarasota, Florida.
Harding Circle Historic District
1.6 km
Experience the charm and history of Harding Circle Historic District in Sarasota, Florida, where stunning architecture meets lush landscapes.
Lido Key Beach, Sarasota FL
1.9 km
Discover the sun-kissed shores of Lido Key Beach, Sarasota—where soft sands meet azure waters in a slice of Floridian paradise.
Landing of the Scots
3.3 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scottish immigrants at the beautiful Landing of the Scots in Sarasota, where history meets stunning waterfront views.
Must See Sarasota
3.4 km
Discover the Best of Sarasota at the Must See Sarasota Tourist Information Center, Your Guide to Unforgettable Experiences in Florida.
DeMarcay Hotel
3.4 km
Explore the DeMarcay Hotel, a historical gem in Sarasota, showcasing early 20th-century architecture and rich local history.
Downtown Sarasota
3.4 km
Discover the charm of Downtown Sarasota, where culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty converge for an unforgettable experience.
S. H. Kress and Co. Building
3.5 km
Explore the S. H. Kress and Co. Building, a stunning Art Deco historical landmark in Sarasota, Florida, rich with architectural beauty and local culture.
Historical Society
3.6 km
Explore Sarasota's rich history at the Historical Society, where every exhibit tells a story of the past and shapes the future.
Rosemary Cemetery
3.6 km
Explore the serene Rosemary Cemetery in Sarasota, Florida, a historical landmark filled with rich stories and beautiful landscapes.
Sarasota Architectural Salvage
3.7 km
Explore Sarasota Architectural Salvage for unique reclaimed materials and vintage decor that bring history and charm to your home.
Indian Beach Park
3.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Indian Beach Park in Sarasota, Florida, where relaxation meets adventure in a stunning coastal setting.
Indian Beach
4.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Indian Beach in Sarasota, Florida, where golden sands meet serene waters for the ultimate relaxation getaway.
SARASOTA CITY CENTER
4.3 km
Discover the charm of Sarasota City Center, a vibrant park that blends natural beauty, art, and community events in the heart of Sarasota.
Discover Sarasota Tours
4.4 km
Explore Sarasota's vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery with Discover Sarasota Tours, a premier tour operator offering unforgettable experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ken Thompson Park
0.2 km
Explore the natural beauty and recreational activities at Ken Thompson Park in Sarasota, a perfect family-friendly destination.
Fishing Pier
0.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Sarasota's Fishing Pier, a perfect blend of relaxation, fishing, and spectacular Gulf Coast views.
City Island
0.5 km
Discover the tranquility of City Island in Sarasota, a picturesque park perfect for relaxation, picnics, and stunning waterfront views.
Quick Point Nature Preserve
0.7 km
Explore the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Quick Point Nature Preserve in Longboat Key, a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts.
North Lido Beach
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of North Lido Beach in Sarasota, Florida, where white sands meet tranquil waters for an unforgettable beach experience.
Ringling Bridge Causeway Park
1.6 km
Discover the stunning vistas and serene ambiance of Ringling Bridge Causeway Park, a premier outdoor destination in Sarasota, Florida.
St. Armands Circle
1.6 km
Explore St. Armands Circle, a vibrant shopping and dining hub in Sarasota, Florida, surrounded by beautiful parks and stunning coastal views.
Bird Key Park
1.7 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Bird Key Park in Sarasota, Florida—your perfect getaway for relaxation and wildlife watching.
John Ringling Cswy
1.9 km
Experience the breathtaking views and natural beauty along the John Ringling Causeway in Sarasota, Florida, a must-visit destination for travelers.
Public beach
2.3 km
Discover the beauty of Lido Key Beach in Sarasota, FL, where pristine sands and azure waters create the perfect paradise for relaxation and fun.
Eloise Werlin Park
2.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Eloise Werlin Park, a lush urban oasis in Sarasota, perfect for relaxation, recreation, and stunning natural beauty.
Lido Key
2.3 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Lido Key, a serene island retreat in Sarasota, Florida, renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant wildlife.
Lido Beach Pavilion
2.4 km
Discover the beauty of Lido Beach Pavilion in Sarasota, where sun, sand, and stunning Gulf views await your visit.
Lido Key Beach
2.5 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Lido Key Beach in Sarasota, Florida, offering pristine sands and crystal-clear waters for the perfect seaside escape.
Lido beach
2.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Lido Beach, where soft sands and crystal-clear waters create the perfect coastal getaway in Sarasota, Florida.
Essential places to dine
The Old Salty Dog
0.2 km
Discover The Old Salty Dog: A family-friendly seafood restaurant in Sarasota offering delicious dishes and stunning waterfront views.
Speaks Clam Bar
1.5 km
Discover fresh seafood and Italian delights at Speaks Clam Bar in St. Armands Circle - where every bite is a taste of coastal paradise.
Shore St. Armands
1.5 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Shore St. Armands, where every meal is an unforgettable culinary journey.
Columbia Restaurant
1.6 km
Discover authentic Spanish and Cuban flavors at Columbia Restaurant in St. Armands Circle – where culinary tradition meets vibrant atmosphere.
Cha Cha Coconuts
1.6 km
Discover delicious Caribbean-inspired American cuisine at Cha Cha Coconuts in Sarasota’s vibrant St. Armands Circle.
Café L'Europe
1.6 km
Experience exquisite European cuisine at Café L'Europe in Sarasota's charming St. Armands Circle - where fine dining meets elegance.
Venezia Italian Restaurant
1.6 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Venezia Italian Restaurant in Sarasota's vibrant St. Armands Circle – a culinary experience not to be missed.
Daiquiri Deck St. Armands Circle
1.7 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Daiquiri Deck St. Armands Circle with fresh seafood and refreshing drinks in Sarasota's vibrant atmosphere.
Crab & Fin Restaurant
1.7 km
Experience fine dining at Crab & Fin Restaurant in Sarasota - where fresh seafood meets exquisite culinary artistry on St. Armands Circle.
DalMoros Fresh Pasta To Go - Sarasota (FL)
1.7 km
Experience the taste of Italy with fresh pasta and authentic flavors at DalMoros Fresh Pasta To Go in Sarasota.
Tommy Bahama Restaurant, Bar & Store
1.8 km
Discover island-inspired dining at Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar in Sarasota's St. Armands Circle—where delicious seafood meets tropical flair.
Lido Island Grill
2.4 km
Experience fresh seafood and local flavors at Lido Island Grill – your go-to takeout spot in beautiful Sarasota.
Drift Kitchen & Bar
2.5 km
Discover Drift Kitchen & Bar on Lido Key for an unforgettable dining experience featuring fresh seafood and Floridian flavors amidst stunning Gulf views.
Jack Dusty
2.8 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Jack Dusty in Sarasota's Ritz-Carlton with stunning bay views and locally sourced ingredients.
Marina Jack
3.1 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining with stunning marina views at Marina Jack in Sarasota.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Garden Argosy
1.5 km
Explore Garden Argosy in Sarasota: A charming gift shop filled with unique treasures, art, and more in the heart of St. Armands Circle.
Foxy Lady West
1.5 km
Explore Foxy Lady West, a trendy women's clothing store in Sarasota's St. Armands Circle, offering chic apparel and accessories for every style.
Shore
1.5 km
Discover Shore, the trendy clothing store in St. Armands Circle, Sarasota, offering a stylish selection for every occasion.
The FlipFlop Shack
1.6 km
Explore the vibrant FlipFlop Shack in St. Armands Circle for stylish and comfortable footwear perfect for your Sarasota adventure.
The Giving Tree Gallery
1.6 km
Explore The Giving Tree Gallery in Sarasota, where art meets craftsmanship in a stunning display of jewelry and local artistry.
Tommy Bahama Store
1.6 km
Discover tropical-inspired clothing and swimwear at the Tommy Bahama Store in St. Armands Circle, Sarasota, where beach style meets quality.
Influence Style
1.6 km
Explore Sarasota's Influence Style, a boutique women's clothing store with unique styles and exceptional service in the heart of St. Armands.
Mercantile Home & Apparel
1.6 km
Explore Mercantile Home & Apparel in Sarasota for unique gifts, stylish women's clothing, and charming home decor in a delightful shopping atmosphere.
Salty Stitch
1.6 km
Discover stylish beachwear and accessories at Salty Stitch, your go-to destination for sun-ready fashion in Sarasota's St. Armands Circle.
Little Bo-Tique
1.6 km
Explore Little Bo-Tique in St. Armands, Sarasota for stylish children's clothing and delightful accessories in a charming shopping atmosphere.
Alvin's Island Sarasota - #758
1.6 km
Discover unique beach souvenirs, trendy clothing, and fun toys at Alvin's Island Sarasota – a vibrant gift shop in the heart of Florida's coastal paradise.
Beach House
1.6 km
Explore Beach House on St. Armands Circle for unique gifts and local treasures that embody the spirit of Sarasota's coastal lifestyle.
Cariloha Sarasota
1.6 km
Explore eco-friendly bedding, stylish apparel, and unique home goods at Cariloha Sarasota, where comfort meets sustainability in the heart of St. Armands Circle.
WE ARE family boutique
1.7 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish clothing at WE ARE Family Boutique in Sarasota's charming St. Armands area, a treasure trove of local artistry.
Butterfly Beach
1.7 km
Discover stylish swimwear and casual clothing for the whole family at Butterfly Beach, a must-visit shopping destination in Sarasota's St. Armands.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lynches Pub & Grub
1.6 km
Discover Lynches Pub & Grub, a vibrant Sarasota pub offering delicious food, craft drinks, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of St. Armands Circle.
Arcade Monsters Lido Beach
1.7 km
Experience the thrill of gaming and delicious food at Arcade Monsters in Lido Beach, a unique bar and amusement center for all ages.
Lido Key Tiki Bar
3.2 km
Discover the tropical paradise of Lido Key Tiki Bar in Sarasota, where refreshing cocktails and breathtaking beach views await you.
Perspective Rooftop Pool Bar
3.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant atmosphere at Perspective Rooftop Pool Bar in Sarasota, where every sip and sunset is a celebration.
Bar Hana
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant taste of Polynesia at Bar Hana, Sarasota's tropical dining destination with exotic flavors and refreshing cocktails.
Wink Wink Food and Drink
3.3 km
Discover Wink Wink Food and Drink, a vibrant restaurant in Sarasota offering a fusion of flavors, craft cocktails, and live music in a trendy atmosphere.
The Lounge at element
3.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of vibrant atmosphere, exquisite seafood, and creative cocktails at The Lounge at Element in Sarasota.
Joe's On Main
3.5 km
Experience the lively ambiance and delicious flavors at Joe's On Main, Sarasota's top bar for craft beers and pub fare.
Brewster’s
3.6 km
Experience the best of Sarasota dining at Brewster's, where gourmet grill meets a vibrant gastropub atmosphere.
Boos Ice House & Dog Bar
3.6 km
Experience a delightful blend of tasty cuisine and a dog-friendly atmosphere at Boos Ice House & Dog Bar in Sarasota.
Block 15 Cork & Craft
3.7 km
Discover a vibrant wine cellar and tapas bar in Sarasota, offering exquisite wines, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Cask and Ale
3.7 km
Experience the best of Sarasota at Cask and Ale, where delicious food and expertly crafted cocktails come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Evie's Tavern & Grill On Main Street
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Evie's Tavern & Grill On Main Street in Sarasota, where delicious food and lively atmosphere await.
Pangea Alchemy Lab
3.8 km
Discover Sarasota's Pangea Alchemy Lab, where creativity meets mixology in a vibrant lounge setting perfect for any evening.
The Mable - Bar & Grill
4.1 km
Experience vibrant dining and nightlife at The Mable - Bar & Grill, Sarasota's premier bar and grill offering delicious food, lively atmosphere, and crafted cocktails.
