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Aquariums

Mote Science Education Aquarium (SEA)

📍 Sarasota, FL

★4.4(1,143 Google reviews)

Mote SEA in Sarasota opened recently at University Town Center with immersive marine exhibits, a walk-under shark tank, STEM Teaching Labs, Workforce Development Labs viewable by visitors, drop-in science activities, and an audio tour.

✓ marine science✓ shark exhibit✓ STEM programming✓ aquarium✓ drop-in activities✓ newly opened
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★★★★★Featured review by gary kornacki

A great aquarium. Newly opened. Easy to navigate and wonderful exhibits. The main tank is an immersive experience.

🏆 Family Action Verdict

Best for school-age children and teens with an interest in marine biology or ocean science — the visible research labs and STEM drop-in activities go well beyond a standard aquarium visit. The overhead shark tank delivers a genuine wow moment for all ages. Ticket discounts apply when booked online at least 30 days in advance.

â„šī¸ What to Know Before You Go

💡Book tickets online at least 30 days ahead to qualify for the advance-purchase discount
⏰Download the audio tour before arriving — it narrates all exhibits and is accessible on your own device
đŸŽŸī¸Drop-in science activities run daily during opening hours — check the schedule at the entrance for that day's programming
🚗Mote Membership provides unlimited return visits for the year — worth considering for Sarasota-area families

đŸ’Ŧ What Families Are Saying

View all reviews →
4.4
★★★★★

1,143 Google reviews

Overhead shark tank40%
Educational exhibits30%
STEM lab access20%
Navigation & layout10%
G

gary kornacki

★★★★★

“A great aquarium. Newly opened. Easy to navigate and wonderful exhibits. The main tank is an immersive experience.”

J

Jerry Troutman

★★★★★

“Excellent for the school age and for a learning experience. Rates in the top 5 but certainly behind Atlanta and Baltimore”

Reviews from Google

Overview

Mote Science Education Aquarium brings a research-backed marine experience to Sarasota's University Town Center. The centerpiece main tank features sharks swimming directly overhead in an immersive walk-through format. Beyond exhibits, visitors can view active STEM Teaching Labs and Workforce Development Labs — connecting the aquarium floor to real marine science. Drop-in science programming runs daily.

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday09:30 – 17:00
Tuesday09:30 – 17:00
Wednesday09:30 – 17:00
Thursday09:30 – 17:00
Friday09:30 – 17:00
Saturday09:30 – 17:00
Sunday09:30 – 17:00

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