Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

Overview

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is a world-class, non-profit marine research institution dedicated to the conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems. It offers a variety of exhibits featuring marine life from Florida and beyond.

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium plays a crucial role in marine research, conservation, and education, contributing significantly to the understanding and preservation of marine ecosystems.

Education Research Conservation

Location

Address

1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, Florida

Neighborhood: Downtown Sarasota

Coordinates

27.341000, -82.544000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$30

Children

$18

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October-April

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

• Manatee exhibit
• Sea turtle rehabilitation

summer

Hot and humid

• Extended summer hours
• Special summer camps for kids

autumn

Warm to cool

• Fall migration of birds
• Hurricane preparedness exhibits

winter

Cool to cold

• Holiday lights and decorations
• Winter break programs for kids

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring ID for ticket purchases
Check weather and dress accordingly

What to Bring

essential

ID Water bottle Printed tickets

seasonal

Light jacket Umbrella Hat

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Food and drinks (except water) Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate, some walking required

• Stay hydrated, especially in summer
• Be cautious around water exhibits

Medical facilities: First aid station available

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards, Mobile payments

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $30 for adults, $18 for children (4-12), $27 for seniors (60+)

parking $5

food $10-$20 per meal

souvenirs $5-$50

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing for summer, layers for cooler months, Walking shoes or sneakers, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 1 week
• Official website or authorized ticket vendors
• 48 hours for full refund
• Available for online ticket purchases

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Mote Marine Lab & Aquarium

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Exhibit information, Ticket purchases, Educational content, Event schedule, Gift shop

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café, Outdoor areas

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Café, Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport

Distance: 10 miles (16 km)

Travel Time: 20 minutes

taxi

$35-$45 20 min

rideshare

$25-$35 20 min

public_transport

$2 45 min

From City Center

Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)

bus

$2 15-20 min

bike

Free (if using your own bike) or $5 for bike rental 15-20 min

taxi

$10-$15 10 min

rideshare

$8-$12 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is a beloved local institution that showcases the beauty and diversity of marine life. It offers educational programs and conservation efforts that resonate with the community.

Historical Significance: Founded in 1955, Mote Marine Laboratory has a rich history of marine research and conservation. It has contributed significantly to the understanding of marine ecosystems and the protection of endangered species.

Insider Tips

Visit during weekdays for a more peaceful experience
Check the schedule for feeding times and special demonstrations
The café offers a great selection of local coffee and snacks

Local Recommendations

• Try the local coffee at the café near the entrance
• Ask the staff about their favorite exhibits or animals
• Visit the nearby Marie Selby Botanical Gardens for a diverse plant collection

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

help Help

exit Exit

restroom Restroom

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance with the iconic Mote sign

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

Tips: Wide-angle shot to capture the entrance and surrounding gardens

Result: Stunning photo with good lighting and vibrant colors

#MoteMarineLab #Sarasota #FloridaAquarium #MarineLife

Manatee exhibit

Best Time: Early morning when manatees are most active

Tips: Capture the manatees interacting with each other or with visitors

Result: Heartwarming and engaging photos of these gentle giants

#Manatees #MarineConservation #SeaLife

Shark exhibit

Best Time: Midday when the lighting is bright

Tips: Use the glass to capture reflections or unique angles of the sharks swimming

Result: Dramatic and captivating shots of sharks in action

# Sharks #Predators #AquariumLife

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, public spaces, designated photography zones

prohibited areas Animal holding areas, staff-only zones, sensitive exhibits

flash photography Not allowed to avoid disturbing the animals

commercial photography Permit required for professional or commercial use

drone policy Prohibited without prior approval

tripod policy Restricted to designated areas, may require a permit

selfie sticks Allowed but must be used responsibly and not disturb other visitors or animals

Nearby Attractions

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)

Walking: 20 min

Type: Botanical Gardens

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art