You have 1 trip in progress.   See all
Trip Planner:   USA  /  Florida  /  Southwest Gulf Coast  /  Sarasota  /  Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, Sarasota

4.5
#1 of 7 in Zoos & Aquariums in Southwest Gulf Coast
Aquarium · Zoo / Aquarium
Create an itinerary including Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
At the marine-research organization Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium you can explore marine life through a number of exhibits, including the 511 l (135,000 gal) shark tank. The aquarium has always been dedicated to educating the public on the science of the sea, with research on sharks and dolphins specifically. The laboratory itself opened in 1955, and the Mote Aquarium was later added in 1980. The aquarium is home to over 100 species of mostly local marine life, which you can experience in a number of ways. Take a peek into the working laboratory, watch manatees and dolphins play, or plan your own animal encounter. Learn about conservation and much more at this combination lab and aquarium. By using our Sarasota trip planning app, you can arrange your visit to Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium and other attractions in Sarasota.
Create a full itinerary - for free!

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
4,370 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • Engaging aquarium with focus on conservation. Relaxed setting with plenty to see for all ages. Be aware that the aquarium is in two separate buildings and you have to walk about a block between the... 
    Engaging aquarium with focus on conservation. Relaxed setting with plenty to see for all ages. Be aware that the aquarium is in two separate buildings and you have to walk about a block between the...  more »
  • My wife and I found the Mote Acquarium to be extremely informative, educational, and entertaining. The displays were well labelled as to what you were looking at. Lots to see: seahorses, lobster... 
    My wife and I found the Mote Acquarium to be extremely informative, educational, and entertaining. The displays were well labelled as to what you were looking at. Lots to see: seahorses, lobster...  more »
Google
  • Awesome marine lab and aquarium. Both in and outdoor display are well organized. Kids loved the petting places where they could touch the sting rays, sharks, starfish, sea cucumbers etc Manatees are such a huge attraction. The volunteers and staff are very helpful. The tickets can be expensive but you get 50% off if you have a zoo membership somewhere. You can also get discounts for your boat tours with your mote tickets if you want to do the tour next or later. No food allowed inside but water is welcome. There are places for your to get your water refilled. And a cafeteria in case you get hungry. Expect a couple hours to go over everything. Lot of walking involved for sure. But come have fun with your kids.
  • Before our trip, we heard such great things about the Mote Aquarium. Our visit lived up to the hype and more. On the surface, the aquarium doesn’t seem like much but it’s packed with interesting displays! Some of our favorites included the sharks, eels, river otters, turtles, and alligators. On top of those, there is plenty more to experience. The staff is more than friendly and were always there to lend a hand, give advice, or teach us a mini lesson. We spent about 2-3 hours going through both buildings. Overall, a great trip and experience and a place I think everyone should, especially with kids.

Plan your trip to Sarasota

  • Get a personalized trip
    A full day by day itinerary based on your preferences
  • Customize it
    Refine your trip. We'll find the
    best routes and schedules
  • Manage it
    Everything in one place. Everyone on the same page.