Key West Aquarium
Discover marine wonders at America's oldest aquarium! Engage with sea life in a historic setting, perfect for families.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Key West Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover marine wonders at America's oldest aquarium! Engage with sea life in a historic setting, perfect for families.
"Friendly and informative staff! It definitely shows its beauty of being the oldest aquarium in Florida."
🎯 Two-Day Wristband Magic
Your ticket grants access for two days! Perfect for revisiting or catching different shows.
❄️ Cool Down Indoors
Escape the Key West heat in this refreshing, air-conditioned attraction. Great for families!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Touch Tank
Main Exhibit Area
Get hands-on with sea stars, horseshoe crabs, and even baby sharks! A must-do for all ages.
Majestic Sea Turtles
Central Tanks
Marvel at the impressive size and grace of the resident sea turtles. Learn about their conservation.
Local Marine Life Displays
Various Tanks
Discover the diverse aquatic life native to the Florida Keys, from colorful fish to unique invertebrates.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Two-Day Access & Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Two-Day Wristband Magic
Your ticket grants access for two days! Perfect for revisiting or catching different shows.
❄️ Cool Down Indoors
Escape the Key West heat in this refreshing, air-conditioned attraction. Great for families!
🗣️ Chat with Staff
The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable! Ask them anything about the marine life.
🐢 Turtle Talk Time
Don't miss the feeding shows, especially for the sea turtles – very informative!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Two-Day Wristband Magic
Your ticket grants access for two days! Perfect for revisiting or catching different shows.
❄️ Cool Down Indoors
Escape the Key West heat in this refreshing, air-conditioned attraction. Great for families!
🗣️ Chat with Staff
The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable! Ask them anything about the marine life.
🐢 Turtle Talk Time
Don't miss the feeding shows, especially for the sea turtles – very informative!
🛍️ Souvenir Stop
The gift shop is extensive, offering a wide range of souvenirs to remember your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Key West Aquarium for its friendly and informative staff, historical charm, and engaging touch tank. While some note its smaller size, many appreciate the two-day access and the opportunity to learn about local marine life. It's considered a worthwhile stop, especially for families and pet owners.
"One of my favorite things I did in key west. Very small but had lots of shows you could watch for each sea animal. Definitely recommend. The bracelets are good for two days. Noah was the speaker and the information we got about the turtles was very interesting. Glad we got to go and learn."
Alex Avalos
"Friendly and informative staff! It definitely shows its beauty of being the oldest aquarium in Florida. Very cozy atmosphere with lots of cool aquatic life on display. It appears they are improving some of the facilities in rear of complex but was still cool to feed the fish. Look forward to returning in future! 🐟🐠🐡❤️✌️"
Justin Wiseman
"The staff are very friendly, informative and knowledgeable. The history of the aquarium is presented well and they have sea turtles and the local marine life on display. If vacationing in the area I would highly recommend going and seeing this attraction. They have everything from sea turtles to nurse sharks and the staff run shows nearly hourly."
Drew Wally
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Key West Aquarium is located at 1 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, right on Mallory Square. Many visitors find it easy to walk or bike around Key West, as parking can be challenging.
Parking in Key West can be limited and expensive. There are public parking lots and street parking available, but it's often easier to walk, bike, or use a ride-sharing service if you're staying nearby.
Yes, the Key West Aquarium is centrally located and easily walkable from Duval Street, which is the main thoroughfare in Key West. It's a pleasant stroll through the historic streets.
While Key West doesn't have extensive public transport like a mainland city, there are trolley tours and hop-on-hop-off services that may stop near Mallory Square, where the aquarium is located.
Many visitors find biking or renting a golf cart to be the most convenient and fun way to get around Key West. The island is small and relatively flat, making it easy to navigate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices are approximately $20.99 for adults and $11.99 for children. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential package deals.
While specific coupon codes might be rare, look for package deals that might include admission to other attractions, or check local Key West tourism sites for potential discounts.
The aquarium is typically open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. However, hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to confirm their operating hours on their official website before your visit.
Absolutely! The interactive touch tank and the variety of marine life make it a hit with children. It's also a great way to introduce them to ocean conservation.
Information on group rates is usually available on the aquarium's official website or by contacting them directly. This can be a good option for larger families or organized groups.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of local marine life, including sea turtles, nurse sharks, tarpon, octopuses, and colorful tropical fish. The touch tank is a major highlight.
Yes, the aquarium hosts feeding shows for various animals, including nurse sharks and tarpon. These are often scheduled hourly and are very informative.
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour exploring the aquarium, especially if they attend a feeding show or spend time at the touch tank.
Yes, the Key West Aquarium is one of the few dog-friendly aquariums in Florida, making it a great option for travelers with pets.
Built in 1934, it's one of the oldest attractions in Key West and Florida. It has a rich history of marine research and conservation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The aquarium itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant. However, there are many dining options available in the surrounding Mallory Square area and along Duval Street.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium. It's best to consume them before entering or after your visit.
The Mallory Square area offers a variety of casual eateries, cafes, and bars. You can find everything from quick snacks to seafood and local Key West specialties.
Key West has a growing number of restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan options. You'll find plenty of choices within walking distance of the aquarium.
Dining prices in Key West can vary. While some spots are more upscale, you can find more budget-friendly cafes and casual eateries if you explore a bit.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the aquarium. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the animals.
The touch tank, the large sea turtle tanks, and the colorful fish displays offer great photo opportunities. Try to capture the interaction at the touch tank.
Avoid using flash photography, especially in darker exhibits, as it can startle or harm the marine life. Be mindful of other visitors as well.
A camera with good low-light performance is ideal. Many smartphone cameras perform well in these conditions. A lens that can zoom slightly is also helpful.
You can generally photograph the shows, but always be respectful of the staff and performers. If you're unsure, it's polite to ask.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The feeding shows are also engaging and educational, keeping younger attention spans captivated. It's a great way to cool off from the Florida sun and introduce children to marine life in a fun, accessible way. Consider purchasing the two-day wristband so you can revisit favorite exhibits or catch a show you missed. The aquarium's location on Whitehead Street also makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in the historic district.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Travelers
This means you don't have to leave your pet behind to enjoy the fascinating marine exhibits. It's a thoughtful inclusion that caters to a specific travel need, making Key West more accessible for pet owners. While the pets can't go inside every single exhibit area, the general admission allows them to accompany you through much of the experience. This is a significant advantage for those who prefer not to kennel their pets or leave them alone in accommodations.
📚 History Buffs & Educators
Visitors can appreciate its long-standing commitment to showcasing local marine life and its evolution over the decades. The knowledgeable staff often share historical anecdotes, enriching the experience for those interested in the institution's past. The aquarium's focus on local ecosystems and conservation also appeals to educators and those passionate about environmental science. It provides a tangible example of how public institutions can foster understanding and appreciation for the natural world.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: America's Oldest Aquarium
It was established with a mission to educate the public about the unique marine life found in the Florida Keys. This historical significance adds a layer of charm and educational value to the visitor experience, making it more than just a collection of tanks. You can feel the legacy of marine exploration and conservation as you walk through its halls. Unlike modern, sprawling aquariums, the Key West Aquarium retains a more intimate and classic feel. This allows for a closer connection with the exhibits. The focus remains on showcasing the local ecosystem, providing insights into the creatures that inhabit the surrounding waters. It's a testament to enduring educational institutions that prioritize community engagement and environmental awareness.
Visitors often remark on the friendly and knowledgeable staff who are passionate about sharing the aquarium's history and the inhabitants' stories. This personal touch enhances the overall experience, making it a memorable stop for those interested in both marine biology and local heritage.
Interactive Encounters: The Touch Tank Experience
You can gently touch sea stars, feel the unique texture of horseshoe crabs, and even get a glimpse of baby sharks. The touch tank provides a hands-on learning opportunity that is both fun and educational. It allows people to overcome any apprehension they might have about touching sea creatures and fosters a sense of wonder and respect for marine life. The staff are always on hand to ensure safe and proper interaction, answering questions and sharing fascinating facts about each animal.
This engaging experience is a major draw for families and a highlight for many visitors. It’s a chance to create lasting memories and gain a deeper appreciation for the ocean's inhabitants. The thrill of touching a sea creature is often cited as a favorite part of the visit.
Exploring Key West's Marine Wonders
Particular highlights include the majestic sea turtles, which are a crowd favorite due to their size and gentle nature. The aquarium also showcases local sharks, such as nurse sharks, and other fascinating fish like tarpon. These displays are not just for viewing; they are designed to educate visitors about the importance of these creatures and their habitats.
Beyond the main exhibits, the aquarium often provides insights into conservation efforts and the challenges facing marine life. This educational component, combined with the visual appeal of the creatures, makes for an enriching experience that goes beyond simple entertainment.
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