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Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, Sarasota

4.5

#1 of 61 in Zoos & Aquariums in Florida

Aquarium Zoo / Aquarium

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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.

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Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

4,171 reviews

Google

4.7

facebook

4.7

75 likes

• By GJL79

  We enjoyed the Sarasota Bay Explorers boat ride. We observed the local birds nesting at the rookery and took a very easy, short hike to learn about the formation of Edward's Island and the trees...  more »

• By BrinksLawFirm

  Volunteer docents wonderful. Great learning experience. Not too crowded early in the day. Fair price for entry. Two excellent gift shops.  more »

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Google

• By Celeste Schroeder

  Mote Marine is always changing & adding spectacular exhibitions! Their education programs for students & teachers are incredible. Although their everyday existence is all about education & encouraging conservation anyway. We couldn't be more fortunate to have the aquarium here in Sarasota. If you've never been you need to see this place. Just the most amazing way to spend a day (even a rainy one).

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• By Peggy Newman

  Our Grandchildren love this Aquarium. There is a nice variety of marine life and plenty to see. The Aquarium is clean, well maintained and staff is friendly. The only drawback for me is the separation of the two sections of the Aquarium. One must leave the main section of the Aquarium and go a distance to the second section to fully take in the full experience of the Aquarium. There is a Bird Rescue, which is an additional charge, located in between the two Aquarium sections. It is a hot walk in the summer months. (One may want to drive the short distance over and park.)

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