Photo credits: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Sarasota just got even more exciting for ocean lovers—the new Mote Marine Aquarium is officially open, and it’s a must-see! We’re loving the Science Education Aquarium (SEA) tour in the Florida Waters gallery, where you can hang out with all your favorite sea creatures. From playful otters to gentle manatees, adorable penguins, mesmerizing jellyfish, and a vibrant Indo-Pacific reef, there’s something to wow everyone in the family.

Our favorite? The two-story, 400,000-gallon tank in the Florida Gulf Waters exhibit, where sharks swim right overhead—it’s a total jaw-dropping moment! We also love the local creek exhibit, giving a peek at the waters right here in Florida.

Feeling extra adventurous? You have to try the Immotion virtual reality experience—it’s an optional add-on, but trust us, it’s worth it for a fully immersive dive into the ocean without getting wet.

Pro tip: Take your time exploring all the exhibits, snap a few pics with the penguins (they’re camera-ready!), and don’t miss the sharks—they’re basically the stars of the show. Whether you’re a longtime marine fan or just looking for a fun day out, we recommend making this your go-to spot for sea-life adventures.

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

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