The Tampa Florida AquariumBest to visit the aquarium on a sunny day so that you can take advantage of the water park area. This area is appropriate for children just walking to about 12. It has water slides, gushing geysers, and a pirate ship with working water canons. Don't forget to bring your bathing suit, sunscreen, towels and a change of clothes. The Aquarium also has a great view of the Port of Tampa. It is visible from the water park and from the third floor. The Florida Aquarium has several shows throughout the day. You can watch the animals being fed. Get up close and personal with owls, alligators and snakes. The best show of all is the interactive dive show. This happens in Coral Reef Panoramic window. There are benches but arrive early as they fill up quickly. The best seats are the closest to the window. The Aquarium also hosts a variety of annual events through out the year. You can also arrange a swim with the fish or sharks, an Eco Tour through the bay as well as behind the scene tours. Call guest services for availability and restrictions. The aquarium has two restaurants. Cafe Ray is a cafeteria style restaurant with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. This restaurant offers drinks, snacks and burger type fare. They also offer pizzas and sandwiches. The Caribbean Cantina offers table service dining for about the same price though the menu is somewhat limited. The cantina has outside seating overlooking the water park area and is covered like a tiki hut. They also have a full bar. You can take your drinks out to the water park area with you. The food at the Cantina is really good. We have been known to go up just for lunch. Interactive displays include stingray petting area and hold a sea urchin. There is more to see than just fish. Swamp area contains plenty of birds as well as alligators. My favorite exhibit is the sea otters. These little guys are true performers. Swimming and diving as if the routine is choreographed. The sharks are always a big hit with the kids as are the poisonous tree frogs and various sea horses. Admission prices are reasonable and a yearly pass is available.
|
