The Florida Aquarium
The Florida Aquarium
The Florida Aquarium located at 701 Channelside Drive in Tampa is considered one of the top aquariums in the world. It contains over 10,000 animals and plants from all over the world, as well as Florida.
The aquarium offers many ways to experience the wonders of the ocean, from touch tanks, to Eco Tours to daily dive shows. The Eco Tours take place aboard a 64 foot Catamaran, making it possible for you to enjoy the bay close up. The dive shows are always exciting, especially the show that has a diver in the tank with a live shark!
Be sure to put some time aside to explore the aquarium gift shop. You are sure to find a souvenir to fit every budget. How about a coffee mug, or jewelry, or the always popular aquarium T-shirt You will even be able to find Italian glass and authentic Austrian crystal.
When lunch time rolls around there is no need to leave. The Florida Aquarium has a great casual waterfront cafe, named "Cafe Ray". At Cafe' Ray you can order freshly made deli sandwiches, salads, or even pizza.Grilled cuisine is also available and they offer a wide variety of fountain drinks and bottled water as well.
The Florida Aquarium is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. With the exception of Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. General Admission is as follows: adults $17.95, seniors 60+ $14.95, children under 12 $12.95, and children 2 and under are free. General Admission does not include the Eco-Tour and the prices for that are as follows: adults $19.95, seniors 60+ $18.95, children under 12 $14.95, and children 2 and under are free, however they do requires a ticket for boarding. The Eco-Tour is conducted daily but it is advised you call ahead to verify. 813-273-4000. To buy any tickets in advance call 813-367-4024.
