The Florida Aquarium Channelside Drive Tampa Fl
Introduction
The Florida Aquarium, located in Channelside Drive, Tampa, is a popular tourist attraction in Florida. The aquarium is home to over 20,000 aquatic animals and plants from around the world. It is a great place to visit with family and friends, and learn about marine life and conservation.
The Exhibits
The Florida Aquarium has many exhibits that showcase different habitats and species. The Wetlands exhibit is a replica of Florida's natural wetlands, featuring alligators, otters, and turtles. The Bays and Beaches exhibit highlights Florida's coastline with stingrays, sharks, and sea turtles. The Coral Reef exhibit showcases tropical fish, eels, and corals.
The Shows
The Florida Aquarium has several shows that are both entertaining and educational. The Dive with the Sharks program allows visitors to swim with the sharks in a controlled environment. The Penguin Backstage Pass program gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the penguins and their habitat. The Wild Dolphin Cruise takes visitors on a boat ride to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
The Conservation Efforts
The Florida Aquarium is dedicated to conservation efforts and educating the public about the importance of protecting marine life. The aquarium has several programs that focus on conservation, such as the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Program and the Coral Conservation Program. The aquarium also has a Green Business Initiative, which focuses on reducing the aquarium's carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices.
The Special Events
The Florida Aquarium hosts several special events throughout the year. The Aqua Eve event is a New Year's Eve celebration that includes food, drinks, and live music. The Brews by the Bay event is a craft beer festival that features local breweries. The SeaGrapes Wine and Food Festival is a fundraiser for the aquarium that includes wine and food tastings.
The Admission Prices
The admission prices for the Florida Aquarium vary depending on the season and the age of the visitor. Adult tickets are $32.95, children's tickets are $24.95, and senior tickets are $30.95. There are also discounts available for military personnel and Florida residents.
The Hours of Operation
The Florida Aquarium is open every day of the year, except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. The hours of operation vary depending on the season. During the summer months, the aquarium is open from 9:30am to 6:00pm. During the winter months, the aquarium is open from 9:30am to 5:00pm.
The Location
The Florida Aquarium is located at 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa, Florida. It is located near several other popular attractions, such as the Tampa Bay History Center and the Tampa Riverwalk.
Conclusion
The Florida Aquarium is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Florida. With its diverse exhibits, entertaining shows, and commitment to conservation, the aquarium offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in marine life, conservation, or just having fun with family and friends, the Florida Aquarium is the perfect destination.