
The building had large water holding pools that were modified to house marine life and the facility opened its doors to the public in 1981 with a modest one room exhibit. Several years later, in 1978, the city of Clearwater donated a decommissioned wastewater treatment plant to the newly established Clearwater Marine Science Center to make their idea a reality. It is just as much of a hospital as it is a tourist attraction.Ĭlearwater Marine Aquarium began as an idea in 1972 to establish a marine research facility in the Tampa Bay area. At the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, the focus is on animal rescue, rehabilitation, and release back into the natural environment. However, as public interest in the protection of natural ecosystems has skyrocketed, these activities are now increasingly seen on the front end. In past decades, this has generally been something done behind the scenes. Most city aquariums not only put on a large display of marine life but also incorporate a research and science mission that helps to preserve the marine ecosystem. It also may be the enjoyment of interacting with stingrays in the touch tank or smiling at the playfulness of marine mammals like seals, sea otters, and dolphins. Maybe it’s watching something totally foreign like a pulsing jellyfish or the alien but graceful movements of the octopus. Marine aquariums have always scored high marks with young families.

There are a number of ways that a young family can stay busy while in the area, and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium ranks chief among them.

But that doesn’t mean that it’s absent of family activities. Located on the gulf coast, it is where the adults come to play when in Central Florida. Before you visit, make sure to check out the Clearwater Marine Aquarium website to plan your visit to this immersive experience.Featured Image courtesy of Clearwater Marine AquariumĬlearwater, Florida, is best known for its deep, white sand beaches, fishing charters, and water sports activities. In addition to Winter and other dolphins, the aquarium is also home to sea turtles, pelicans, fish, and other local marine life. If you’re planning on visiting Clearwater Marine Aquarium near our hotel, simply purchase a ticket with us while booking your hotel room! A portion of all proceeds go directly to animal welfare and rehabilitation. Before you visit, make sure to check out the Clearwater Marine Aquarium website to plan your visit to this immersive experience. In addition to Winter and the other dolphins, the aquarium is also home to sea turtles, pelicans, fish, and other local marine life. Our hotel near Clearwater Marine Aquarium is the perfect place to stay when visiting Hope and her friends in their comfortable habitats. Today, Winter and our other residents help the aquarium further its lessons on the importance of ocean conservation and safe fishing practices. Only animals that cannot be released for their own safety are kept at the aquarium. Our Residents are now the Stars of the aquarium! The Residents stardom has helped the non-profit facility have the funds to complete the mission to rescue and return marine life to the wild whenever possible. Both films were shot on location at Clearwater Marine Aquarium to share the heartwarming stories of these beautiful animals with the world. She seems to enjoy living in her habitat with Hope, the subject of Dolphin Tale 2. Winter’s tail was severely damaged by a trap, resulting in her needing to learn to swim with a prosthetic tail. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is where Winter, Hope and Rufus, (Ricky) all call home! These famous animals are the subjects of the inspiring and motivational Dolphin Tale movies.

A portion of all proceeds go directly to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium for their Rescue Rehab and Release Mission. If you’re planning on visiting Clearwater Marine Aquarium, simply purchase a ticket with us while booking your hotel room at The Edge and you will receive a discount.
