Explore the Mote Marine Aquarium

Anna Maria Island and the surrounding area is an ideal spot for a family vacation. This island is a hidden gem among visitors, so you won’t find a ton of high-rises or crowded attractions. Instead, locals will wave as you pass on the quiet streets, and there are family-friendly attractions everywhere you look. With so many things to do on AMI, it can be tough to prioritize, but there is one spot down the road that you just can’t miss. In nearby Sarasota, you’ll find the Mote Marine Aquarium, known for its vast variety of wildlife as well as its conservation efforts.

Close up of fish at Mote Marine Aquarium in Sarasota, FL

History

Originally known as the Cape Haze Marine Laboratory, this establishment opened its doors in 1955. William R. Mote was influential in growing the lab, later lending it his name. Since the beginning, this aquarium and lab have made it its mission to educate the public in a thorough and entertaining way. Mote Marine Laboratory is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to using sustainable practices and informing others of the efforts we can take to save our planet.

To this day, Mote is one of the last remaining private marine research laboratories on Earth, and they are incredibly passionate about their programs and partnerships. Having such a strong research department makes it possible for this aquarium to provide the most up-to-date and educational information to guests, making it a fun destination for the whole family.

Exhibits

Mote Marine Aquarium has exhibits for a countless variety of incredible sea creatures. The shark zone exhibit lets you get up close and personal with these majestic animals, or you can learn about alligators and crocodiles. For something a little tamer, visit exhibits dedicated to seeing turtles, otters, or manatees. This is just a handful of the creatures you can learn about at this aquarium. Presentations about sharks, manatees, river otters, crocodilians, and sea turtles happen throughout the day as well and are included with your admission price.

You can also find tons of events going on throughout the year. Happenings like Breakfast with the Sharks or the Sarasota Lionfish Derby gives visitors of all ages a hands-on experience with beautiful wildlife. The Aquarium’s website has a full calendar with all the events, so be sure to check it out before your visit!

Close up of manatee at Mote Marine Aquarium

Experiences

There are even more ways for you to enjoy Mote, and they come in the form of experiences. While the exhibits listed above are open to the public, these experiences often have to be booked in advance. Plan your child’s birthday party at the aquarium, or take an eco-boat tour around the area to see gorgeous animals in the wild. Go kayaking or choose a shark encounter if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous!

General Information

Mote Marine Aquarium can be found at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway in Sarasota, just a short drive from our Anna Maria Island rentals. They are open daily, including holidays, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in person or online, and adult (ages 13+) admission is $24, while children aged 3-12 are $18 and children 2 and under are free. Active military receives free admission with proper ID. If you’re traveling with a large group, you may be eligible for a group rate with a reservation.

Mote Marine Aquarium has long been a staple of the Sarasota area, bringing visitors from far and wide. It may be one of the best family-friendly activities near our Anna Maria vacation rentals! We can’t wait to help you plan the vacation of your dreams, and we have the ideal vacation home for your party. For more information on the area and our full range of rentals, contact us today!