The Zoo’s Largest Expansion in History Welcomes Guests of all Ages with a Sneak Peek

After two years of planning, dreaming, and building, the moment has finally arrived for the public to experience ZooTampa at Lowry Park’s Florida Waters. This unforgettable up-close journey into Florida’s vibrant aquatic wildlife marks a bold new chapter in innovative design, education, and exceptional animal care. The immersive area invites guests of all ages to explore and learn about the Zoo’s nationally recognized conservation efforts and to connect with incredible species.

Designed to inspire curiosity and compassion, the space features hands-on, family-friendly elements like a mangrove walk-through tunnel, a jellies aquatic exhibit, and naturalistic aquariums that mirror Florida’s freshwater springs. Guests will also witness live veterinary procedures, explore, and see firsthand how ZooTampa is giving sick, injured, and orphaned manatees a second chance at life.

The area features: 

  • Straz Family Manatee Rescue: An immersive journey into the world of manatees featuring a mangrove walk-through tunnel, a jellies aquatic exhibit, and naturalistic aquariums that mirror Florida’s freshwater springs. Guests will also see firsthand how ZooTampa is giving sick, injured, and orphaned manatees a second chance at life.
  • Otter Oasis: Offers an enhanced and up-close viewing of playful otters both above and below the surface.
  • Reptile & Amphibian Discovery: Showcases native species and their interconnected habitats while reinforcing the Zoo’s role in both local and global species survival efforts.
  • David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center: The largest nonprofit facility of its kind in the world.
  • Stingray Shores: Opportunity for guests to feed, and even get in the water, with stingrays.
  • ZT Saves Conservation Store: Offering merchandise that features the Zoo’s mission-based programs and gives back to conservation.

Click here for pictures and video.

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact the Communications Department at media.relations@zootampa.org.