A quiet moment beside an aquarium tank can turn into a wide-eyed conversation about the ocean. At Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida, visitors can get close to marine life while discovering the science behind the creatures that call Florida’s coastal waters home.
Located at 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Mote offers opportunities to see manatees, sharks, sea turtles, and other marine animals while learning about ongoing research and conservation work. Outside, the coastal setting adds another layer to the experience, with bay views, seabirds, and the sounds of the water nearby.
For families and curious travelers, the experience goes beyond simply looking at animals behind glass. Exhibits and encounters help connect everyday visitors with the work scientists do to understand and protect marine ecosystems…