Watch hungry sharks feeding, stroke a sea cucumber or admire turtles paddling through the mangroves in this long-running aquarium.
The Key West Aquarium houses tropical fish, sharks and turtles among its many sea creatures. The historic institution makes a great addition to a day out with the family. Spend an afternoon enjoying its old-fashioned charm and admire its collection of marine life, including local species.
When it was built between 1932 and 1934, the Key West Aquarium was one of the first in Florida. Its focus today is on family entertainment and educational experiences for visitors.
Sign up to join a group tour, included in the price of admission, and listen to informative talks on the curiosities of sea life. Visit at feeding time to observe trainers feeding large nurse sharks. Meal times happen four times throughout the day.
Feel the rough hides and hard shells of sea cucumbers and hermit crabs in the touch tank. Bring your camera to snap a photo of the kids or a friend holding one of these creatures.
Watch the graceful movements of more underwater animals at Stingray Bay. The shallow water provides a good view of the rays and allows you to feed them. For your safety, supervising staff are nearby to help you through the experience. The rays have been de-barbed so they cannot sting.
Learn about the local waterways at the Atlantic Shores exhibit. Walk the glassed perimeter of a 190,000-litre (50,000-gallon) viewing tank and watch the interactions of small coloured shrimp and big game fish such as tarpon and cobia. Spot the green sea turtles that live among the mangroves in the ecosystem.
The Key West Aquarium lies on the waterfront next to Mallory Square, north of the city centre. Walk there from central Key West or drive and use the off-street, pay-and-display parking nearby.
The aquarium is open every day. There’s a fee for admission and guided tours are included in the ticket price. Tours leave from the main foyer four times a day. Check the official website for opening hours, tour times and discounts.
