How to Visit the Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium, opened in 1995, is located in Tampa's Channelside District. The 200,000-square foot facility features over 1,300 species of aquatic animals and plants from Florida and around the world. Visitors have a variety of opportunities to see area sea animals up close in a series of unique exhibits.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Purchase tickets to the Florida Aquarium. Available at the aquarium's box office, discounts are given for those over 60 and children ages two through eleven. The Florida Aquarium is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

2. View the exhibits. The exhibits at the Florida Aquarium include two floors of aquariums, tanks and gardens. The displays provide information on the coral reef, invertebrates, wetlands, and bays and beaches.

3. Take the Eco-Tour. In addition to the static exhibits, the Florida Aquarium offers visitors a chance to see sea animals and plants in their natural environment on the Eco-Tour. This 49-passenger catamaran cruise departs from the Aquarium and sails to Tampa Bay, home to over 400 bottlenose dolphins and a variety of fish and aquatic plant life. The cruise carries an additional fee, but no reservations are required.

4. Dive in the Shark Tank. One of the most exciting--and unusual--exhibits at the Florida Aquarium is the "Dive with the Sharks" adventure. Here, certified SCUBA divers, aged 15 and older, have an opportunity to actually get in the 93,000 gallon saltwater tank with a variety of zebra, tiger, nurse and black tip sharks. Divers are accompanied by two dive masters. The dive adventure carries an additional fee that is comparable to other similar dives and includes admission to the Aquarium. Reservations are required and may be made by calling [phone].

5. Relax at the Cafe Ray. Unwind after a day at the museum with a snack or lunch at the aquarium's restaurant, the Cafe Ray. Offerings include salads, sandwiches, pizza and a variety of grilled entrees.