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Free Traveling Guides » States » Florida » Gulf Coast & EvergladesFlorida Aquarium
The Florida Aquarium, situated in the Channel District of Downtown Tampa, Florida, is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization. This 250,000 sq-ft (23225 sq-meters), large scale aquarium is a publicly operated institution and has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Established in March, 1995, Florida Aquarium is now home to over 20,000 species of aquatic plants and animals from all around the globe.
Nestled among the cruise terminals at Tampa’s Port, Florida Aquarium serves as an anchor to the waterfront district and is the most popular stop along the new TECO Line Streetcar System in Tampa. The spectacular 1,100 panel, shell shaped glass dome of the Aquarium building stands out among all the traditional buildings of the area. The Museum aims at educating, entertaining, and encouraging stewardship of the natural environment. Its unique exhibits depict the journey of a drop of water from one of the many freshwater springs in Florida out to the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
The collection of galleries at the Florida Aquarium comprises of Wetlands, featuring streams, marshes, mangrove forests, spoonbills, gators, otters, and snakes; Bays & Beaches, which helps the visitors to discover sea life along Florida’s Coast; Coral Reefs; Explore-A-Shore; and Sea Hunt. The most impressive exhibits put on display in various galleries at the Aquarium include a simulated beach, a large simulated swamp under a tall glass atrium, and a coral reef community featured in a 500,000 gallon water tank. The aquarium lobby features an elegant restaurant, a gift shop, and a stingray touch tank. Other major attractions in the Aquarium include the kid-friendly No Bone Zone, the ‘Invaders-Florida's Most Unwanted Species’ exhibit, and ‘The Sharks-from Fear to Fascination’ exhibit.
Besides, the Aquarium also offers a number of special programs for those who love adventure. These programs include ‘Swim with the Fishes’, offering visitors an opportunity to swim in the 500,000-gallon coral reef tank; and ‘Dive with Sharks’, allowing certified divers to dive in the shark tank. The unique indoor experience at the Aquarium is complimented with the Dolphin Quest Eco-Tours, which allow the visitors to venture out on the water to explore Tampa Bay on a 64-foot (20 m) catamaran. Florida Aquarium attracts thousands of visitors every year and is certainly worth visiting.
- Address: 701 Channel Side Drive,
Tampa, FL 33602
- Telephone: (813) 273-4000
- Hours: Open daily, except Thanksgiving and Christmas, from 9:30 AM - 5 PM
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