Experience the Wonders of the Ocean at The Florida Aquarium in Tampa

No list of things to do in the Tampa area is complete without The Florida Aquarium. The amazing variety and beauty of aquatic life is on full display at this interactive facility. Underwater flora and fauna found at sites around Florida are obviously a big part of the exhibitions, but this world-class aquarium also houses plants and animals from all around the world. A trip to the Florida Aquarium makes for a delightful day trip and is perfect for curious children, families, and adults of all ages. Here are just a few of the fun things to do when you visit The Florida Aquarium.

Explore a Shore

Kids can enjoy two acres of outdoor water-filled adventure. Water slides, simulated beaches, water cannons and more are all available for children and toddlers to play with. Parents can relax in a shaded Cantina area and enjoy the weather while the kids burn off some energy before heading home.

Wild Dolphin Cruise

Tampa Bay is home to a large native dolphin population, and this unique cruise lets you go out into the bay and experience these amazing creatures first hand. The 75-minute tour takes place on a specialized ship designed for observation, and a tour guide is on hand to help you appreciate the charm of the dolphins.

Swim With the Fishes

Guests ages six and older can actually get into an area of the aquarium and swim with the fishes using a miniature SCUBA tank. Diving certification is not required, and this tour offers guests an unparalleled opportunity to interact with sea life directly.

Wetlands Trail

This exhibit simulates the swampy conditions found in so much of Florida. Guests navigate the trail as they encounter species ranging from otters to Burmese pythons. This exhibit gives guests a true sense of Florida’s unique environment and ecological variety.

Journey to Madagascar

Some of the world’s most exotic animals live in Madagascar, but you can observe a great many of them at The Florida Aquarium. Creatures ranging from hissing cockroaches to frolicking lemurs are present in an exhibit space that recreates the environment in Madagascar. Take a trip to another continent from the comfort of Tampa Bay.

Spend Some Time at the Florida Aquarium

We have barely scratched the surface of all there is to see and do at The Florida Aquarium where it’s easy to spend all day marveling at the incredible marine life. The Florida Aquarium is located in downtown Tampa at 701 Channelside Drive. They’re open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. except for Thanksgiving and Christmas.