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The Florida Aquarium: An Underwater Journey

Explore diverse marine life, from Florida wetlands to coral reefs, at Tampa's leading aquarium and conservation center.

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The Florida Aquarium in Tampa is a leading marine conservation and education center, home to over 7,000 aquatic plants and animals from Florida and around the world. With immersive exhibits and interactive experiences, it offers a unique glimpse into diverse marine habitats and a commitment to saving marine wildlife.

A brief summary to The Florida Aquarium

Local tips

  • Visit during the weekdays to avoid large crowds and have a more relaxed experience.
  • Check the aquarium's schedule for feeding times and interactive shows to enhance your visit.
  • Consider purchasing a CityPASS to save up to 55% on admission to the aquarium and other Tampa Bay attractions.
  • Take advantage of the TECO Streetcar to reach the aquarium, as it stops right outside the entrance.
  • If driving, arrive early to secure parking in the City of Tampa parking lot, located a block north of the aquarium.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Tampa, the TECO Line Streetcar is a convenient and free option. Take the streetcar to The Florida Aquarium Station (Stop #7), which is located directly in front of the aquarium's entrance. The streetcar operates frequently, with service every 20 minutes. Alternatively, several bus routes, including lines 1, 19, 9, and 8, stop near the aquarium. Check the local transit schedule for the most up-to-date information. Cost: The TECO Line Streetcar is free. Bus fares vary depending on the route and distance, but a single ride typically costs around $2.00.

  • Walking

    From the Tampa Convention Center or the Riverwalk, The Florida Aquarium is an easy 1.1-mile walk. Head east along the Riverwalk, following the signs towards the Channel District. The walk takes approximately 20-25 minutes, offering scenic views of the waterfront. Cost: Walking is free.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Tampa. A ride from downtown Tampa to The Florida Aquarium typically takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Cost: The estimated cost for a taxi or ride-share from downtown Tampa is $5-$15.

  • Driving

    If driving, The Florida Aquarium is located at 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL 33602. Several parking options are available nearby, including the Channelside Parking Garage and the City of Tampa Parking Lot. Cost: Parking at the City of Tampa Parking Lot costs $10 per vehicle. Valet parking is available at the aquarium's main entrance for $20 for up to 3 hours and $40 for over 3 hours. Other nearby parking garages range from $8 to $30.

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Discover more about The Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium, located in Tampa's Channel District, offers an immersive journey into the underwater world. Since opening in March 1995, the aquarium has become a cornerstone of the community, entertaining and connecting people with nature. Starting as the Clearwater Marine Science Center, it evolved into a world-class facility with a mission to educate and inspire stewardship of the natural environment. The aquarium's exhibits showcase a variety of ecosystems, from the Wetlands of Florida, featuring alligators and river otters, to the vibrant Coral Reef Gallery, home to sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. Journey to Madagascar transports visitors to a unique island ecosystem with lemurs and chameleons. Interactive experiences like Stingray Beach and Moon Bay offer hands-on encounters with marine life. The MORPH'D exhibit explores animal adaptations, featuring electric eels and poison dart frogs. The Florida Aquarium is not only an attraction but also a leader in conservation. It has achieved breakthroughs in coral reproduction and rescues and rehabilitates endangered sea turtles. The aquarium's commitment to education is evident through its programs that reach approximately 100,000 school children each year. With ongoing enhancements and a focus on conservation, The Florida Aquarium provides an engaging and educational experience for all.

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