Dive Into Adventure at The Florida Aquarium
Explore the wonders of the underwater world at The Florida Aquarium, a premier tourist attraction in Tampa, showcasing vibrant marine life and conservation efforts.
A brief summary to The Florida Aquarium
- 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, Channel District, Florida, 33602, US
- +1813-273-4000
The Florida Aquarium stands as a premier destination for nature lovers and families alike, located in the heart of Tampa. This sprawling facility offers an immersive experience that takes visitors on an enchanting journey through diverse aquatic ecosystems. As you explore, you'll encounter everything from mesmerizing jellyfish to playful river otters, all housed in state-of-the-art exhibits designed to educate and inspire. One of the highlights of the aquarium is the Coral Reef exhibit, where you can marvel at the vibrant colors and intricate structures of coral while watching a variety of tropical fish dart about. The aquarium also features a unique outdoor water park, which adds an extra layer of fun for families. Interactive programs allow guests to get up close and personal with some of the resident animals, making it a fantastic opportunity for both education and entertainment. For those looking to enhance their visit, The Florida Aquarium also offers behind-the-scenes tours, which provide a deeper insight into the care of the animals and the importance of marine conservation. With engaging talks and presentations throughout the day, visitors can learn about the vital role that aquatic environments play in our planet's health. Overall, The Florida Aquarium is not just a place to observe marine life; it’s a hub of learning, exploration, and a call to action for conservation efforts.
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online to save time and avoid long lines at the entrance.
- Plan your visit during the weekday for a less crowded experience.
- Don't miss the scheduled animal feedings and talks for an engaging experience.
- Consider bringing a reusable water bottle; there are plenty of refill stations available.
- Check the daily schedule for special events and temporary exhibits to make the most of your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
From any point in Channelside, head towards Channelside Drive. If you're near the Sparkman Wharf, walk towards the waterfront. Continue straight on Channelside Drive, and you will see The Florida Aquarium directly ahead at 701 Channelside Dr. The aquarium is located on the left side of the street. The walk should take about 5-10 minutes depending on your starting point.
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Tampa Streetcar
If you're near the Tampa Streetcar station, you can take the streetcar towards the Channelside area. Board the streetcar at any station along the line (e.g., the Whiting Station). Ride the streetcar until you reach the 'Channelside' stop. From there, exit and walk straight along Channelside Drive for about 5 minutes, and you'll arrive at The Florida Aquarium.
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Biking
If you have access to a bike, you can use the bike lanes available in Channelside. Head towards Channelside Drive, and bike along the path. The Florida Aquarium is located at 701 Channelside Dr, which is easily accessible by bike. There are bike racks available for parking your bike once you arrive.
Attractions Nearby to The Florida Aquarium
- Florida Aquarium Dolphin Boat Tours
- American Victory Ship & Museum
- Tampa Big Letters
- Tampa Bay History Center
- Tampa History Center Dock #3
- Water Street
- Tampa Golf Cart Tours
- Iconic Tampa Bay
- Tampa Firefighters Museum
- Tampa Riverwalk
- MacDill Park on the Riverwalk
- Tampa Theatre
- Perry Harvey Sr. Park
- Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
- Glazer Children's Museum
Landmarks nearby to The Florida Aquarium
- Sparkman Wharf
- Visit Tampa Bay
- Weather clock
- Unlock Tampa Bay Visitors Center
- William F. Poe Plaza
- Tampa Historic Preservation
- The Great Escape Room Tampa
- Palmetto Beach Historic District
- Lykes Gaslight Square Park
- Murder House
- The Vault
- Columbus Statue Park
- Tampa, FL - Downtown West
- S.H. Kress & Co.
- Kiley Gardens