Aquariums
Mote Science Education Aquarium (SEA)
📍 225 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243🕐 Hours
| Monday | 9:30 AM–5 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM–5 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM–5 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM–5 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM–5 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM–5 PM |
| Sunday | 9:30 AM–5 PM |
About Mote Science Education Aquarium (SEA)
Mote Science Education Aquarium (SEA) is an aquarium in Sarasota, FL. Mote Membership provides reciprocal admission to more than 100 zoos and aquariums nationwide, making it one of the most widely accepted aquarium memberships in the country. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,124 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Aquarium
- Best For
- All ages
- Highlights
- Marine life from around the world, sharks, Florida coastal species, STEM labs
- Hours
- 9:30am – 5:00pm daily
- Membership
- Yes — unlimited visits plus 100+ reciprocal zoos/aquariums
💡 Did You Know?
- Mote Membership provides reciprocal admission to more than 100 zoos and aquariums nationwide, making it one of the most widely accepted aquarium memberships in the country
- The aquarium features a three-floor layout with a showstopper shark tank and includes interactive touch tanks, VR experiences, and behind-the-scenes Gulf Coast tours
- Review data shows manatees are the most frequently mentioned animal (75 mentions), followed by otters (55 mentions) and penguins (35 mentions), indicating these are signature exhibits
- The facility includes Workforce Development Labs and STEM Teaching Labs as part of its educational mission, indicating a focus on career training and science education beyond typical aquarium exhibits
💬 What Visitors Say
- Book the behind-the-scenes Gulf Coast tour for the most memorable experience — visitors consistently highlight this as the trip's highlight, with knowledgeable guides providing deep insights into sea life.
- Don't miss the third-floor outdoor viewing area with panoramic views and photo booth, and request to view the first-floor shark tank from inside the event hall for the best tank viewing angle in the building.
- Purchase tickets online at least 30 days in advance for discounted pricing, and consider a Mote Membership for year-round free visits plus reciprocal admission to 100+ zoos and aquariums nationwide — especially valuable if planning repeat visits.
- Plan 2-3 hours for your visit across three accessible floors with elevators, escalators, and stairs. Touch tanks and interactive exhibits are well-suited for young children, and the venue is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible.
- Use the interactive map app at the entrance to navigate to specific exhibits (manatees, sharks, turtles, otters) and enhance learning by engaging with staff, who are knowledgeable about animal facts and behaviors.
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