Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Sarasota, Florida

If you’re planning a trip to Sarasota, Florida, there’s one spot you can’t miss: the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. This incredible destination is more than just a place to see marine life—it’s a hands-on journey into the wonders of our oceans. When you’re looking for a unique things to do in Sarasota, head on over because Mote has something for everyone.

Let me show you around 

From the moment you step through the doors, you’re greeted with beautiful exhibits that will leave you in awe. One highlight is their 135,000-gallon shark habitat, where you can watch these majestic creatures glide by just inches away. Other crowd favorites include:

Blacktip Reef Shark

Photo Credit: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Octopus

Photo Credit: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Green Moray Eel

Photo Credit: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Hawksbill Sea Turtle

Photo Credit: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Lined Seahorse

Photo Credit: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

North American River Otter

Photo Credit: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Smalltooth Sawfish

Photo Credit: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

And my personal favorite…these gentle giants…manatee!

Not Just an Aquarium

What makes Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium extra special is its connection to marine research. You’ll find interactive exhibits and educational programs that dive into topics like conservation, ocean health, and groundbreaking scientific studies happening right at the Mote Laboratory. For a more immersive experience, be sure to check out the touch tanks, where you can get up close with stingrays, starfish, and other marine critters.

Animal Encounters

Mote has great opportunities to get up close to the marine life including:

Morning Rounds

Turtle Time

Who Should Visit?

Families will love the kid-friendly exhibits and interactive features, making it a perfect day out for children of all ages.

Couples can enjoy a romantic stroll through the beautifully designed habitats.

Marine enthusiasts will appreciate the in-depth information and behind-the-scenes look at ongoing research.

Travel Tips for Visiting 

Hours of Operation: Mote Aquarium is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, but be sure to check their website for any updates or special events.

Parking: Parking is free and plentiful. The lot is located right next to the entrance, making it super convenient for families with strollers or anyone needing easy access.

Gift Shop: Don’t leave without visiting the gift shop! From cuddly marine animal plushies to educational books and ocean-themed jewelry, there’s something for everyone. Plus, your purchase helps support Mote’s research and conservation efforts.

Tickets: To save time, buy your tickets online. This also ensures you won’t miss out on popular experiences, especially during weekends and holidays.

Dining Options: Downtown Sarasota is just a short drive away with plenty of delicious options. My favorite place to eat is New Pass Grill.  It is right on the water and you can watch the boats, birds, and sea life. The last two times I was there I saw dolphins.

1600 Ken Thompson Parkway

Sarasota, FL 34236

(941) 388-4441

Click HERE to get to their website.

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 Whether you’re marveling at sharks, learning about coral restoration, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings, Mote Aquarium delivers an unforgettable adventure. As always, all opinions are 100% of MyTravelingKids.com.

My girls are big fans of Hope and Winter, the dolphins portrayed in the movies Dolphin Tale and Dolphin Tale 2.  Winter is a great role model of strength and determination. If you don’t know their story, Winter was 3 years old when her tail became entangled in a crab trap line that cut off the circulation of her tail flukes.  She was brought to Clearwater Marine Aquarium and, with the help of the staff, was given a prosthetic tail and fluke and relearned how to swim. Unlike a typical aquarium, Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a working animal hospital and marine life rescue center. 

We started our day with a tour of the aquarium with Julia, who was knowledgeable of all the animals and answered all our questions.  What struck me most was how committed the staff is to the well-being of all of the animals brought here.  They were all quick to answer questions my girls had and if you were looking at an exhibit they would come over and give you facts about the animals like what led them to need help.   It was a welcoming environment and we walked away with tons of knowledge about marine animals.  The girls couldn’t stop telling my husband all about it over dinner. 

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The Florida Aquarium is a fun way to spend a few hours while visiting Tampa, Florida.  There is so much to explore within the aquarium as well as additional tours and experiences.  Let’s take a tour of the aquarium as I tell you about our fun day.  With over 200,000 sea creatures this is only a glimpse.

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