This was my first aquarium experience, so I don't have much to compare it too, but I really enjoyed it. It's right beside the Cruise Pier so before embarking we decided to check it out. We got a half-price deal due to construction, and it was a Monday around noon, so there were very few people inside. Touching starfish and anemones was a first, as was seeing the shark "show" they put on. I found the massive reef display with all the fish swimming around to be extremely peaceful and mesmerizing, but I can imagine that would have been spoiled if there were a million kids around me. In any case, I'd recommend it to anyone who hasn't seen a lot of exotic sea life before.

It cost us (adults) approximately 18 dollars to get in but it was more than worth it. It was a very large facility with a large variety of animals and wonderful views. There was also a large outdoor area with places for kids to play or for people to just sit and people watch by the bay. You can easily spend 2 or 3 hours there and it appeals to people of all ages from small kids to my 80 year old grandma!

This aquarium is a fun, well done place to go. It is especially good for kids. It is not huge, but it offers a lot of different exhibits. I was very pleasantly suprised at how nice this place is. It is not your typical boring aquarium. I strongly recommend this place for anyone in the area.

It is funny to read other's reviews of the Florida Aquarium. It seems that some of unrealistic expectations of what the Florida Aquarium is. Yes there are currently no seals or captive dolphins, but this is one of the finest aquariums in the U.S. Frankly, the staff do a great job, and the exhibits are very well maintained. For adults, the best features are: the wetlands dome - sitting there in an indoor Florida Wetland is a renewing experience; the Coral Reef Panoramic Gallery is incredibly peaceful, just sitting in the provided rocking chairs for minutes refreshes the soul. For children, especially young children, the Explore A Shore is just GREAT! The Florida Aquarium is not all about shows and dancing fish, it's about real nature, conservation, and enjoying the experience, but you need to take your time, and take it in - each exhibit offers a unique experience. What I found very helpful was the free photo tour on TampaBayAquarium.com - no other aquarium has a website that shows itself off like this! It is a must see before you go!