The Tampa Attraction Again Earns National Recognition—The Only Aquarium in the State to Make the List

The Florida Aquarium has once again been named one of the top 10 aquariums in the country by USA Today’s 2025 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, earning the #8 spot on the prestigious list. This marks the seventh time—and the fifth consecutive year—that the Aquarium has earned this national recognition, making it the only aquarium in Florida to be honored this year.

“This is more than just a win for The Florida Aquarium—it’s a win for Tampa Bay,” said Roger Germann, President & CEO of The Florida Aquarium. “To be recognized year-after-year by our community and visitors nationwide is a powerful reminder that what we’re doing—whether it’s providing immersive experiences, engaging education initiatives, or driving marine conservation leadership—is making a real impact. We’re honored and deeply grateful to our guests and community who support us.”

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VIDEO AND PHOTOS OF THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM

Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium

A panel of travel experts selected 20 aquariums from across the country based on their excellence in visitor experience, conservation efforts, and educational value. Public voting then determined the final rankings. The full list of winners will be available here.

Celebrating 30 Years with New Experiences and Special Offers
This recognition comes as The Florida Aquarium continues its yearlong 30th anniversary celebration with new experiences and community-driven promotions:

  • $30 Weekday Admission: In honor of 30 years in Tampa Bay, the Aquarium is offering $30 general admission tickets Monday through Friday in May (excluding Memorial Day).
  • A Tribute to Bravery: In appreciation of those who serve, the Aquarium will offer free admission to military service members from Friday, May 23 through Monday, May 26. Tickets must be redeemed in person.

“Our city has grown up alongside The Florida Aquarium, and this recognition is yet another reason to be proud,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. “For three decades, the Aquarium has educated, inspired, and brought people together in ways that have made our community stronger. And now, it’s preparing for an even more exciting future with its expansion plans.”

A Future of Firsts
The Florida Aquarium in undergoing a historic $45 million expansion—its largest ever—which includes:

  • Summer 2025: A new tide pool touch exhibit featuring animals from North America’s rugged coastlines.
  • 2026: The debut of a puffin habitat, presented by the Vinik Family Foundation.
  • 2027: The arrival of California sea lions—a first for Florida’s west coast.
  • Future Phase: Expansion of the African penguin habitat, presented by The Mosaic Company.

Did You Know?
Since opening its doors on March 31, 1995, The Florida Aquarium has:

  • Welcomed more than 20 million guests
  • Generated an annual economic impact of approximately $275 million
  • Reached more than 2 million children through on-site education programs
  • Rescued, rehabilitated, and released hundreds of marine animals

Visit flaquarium.org to plan your visit and see why The Florida Aquarium continues to be ranked among the best aquariums in the country—right here in Florida.

About The Florida Aquarium

This year marks the 30th anniversary of The Florida Aquarium, a cornerstone of Tampa Bay’s transformation into a globally recognized destination. Since opening in 1995, this 501c (3) nonprofit organization has been dedicated to environmental stewardship through purpose-driven conservation, research, education, and outreach programs. Welcoming more than a million guests annually, The Florida Aquarium provides world-class experiences that inspire action to protect marine wildlife. Home to a diverse array of aquatic and terrestrial animals, the Aquarium is committed to exceptional animal care and fostering a deeper connection to the ocean through immersive exhibits. Driven by a commitment to saving marine wildlife, The Florida Aquarium remains a world-renowned leader in groundbreaking research and rescue efforts that help restore Florida’s coral reefs and sea turtle populations. For more information, visit flaquarium.org and follow on X (Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn.  

 

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