Miami Seaquarium
Zoo Marine park in Miami featuring animal shows
Marine park on Virginia Key featuring exhibits and animal presentations, aquariums and educational programs; visitors come for dolphin shows, tropical marine life and family outings.
Miami Seaquarium is a marine park and public aquarium on Virginia Key in Miami, Florida. It opened in 1955 and is one of the long-established marine attractions in the city.
The Seaquarium presents marine mammal and sea life exhibits and scheduled performances, and it houses collections of dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles and tropical fish. Visitor amenities include exhibit pools and demonstration arenas designed for animal presentations.
The Seaquarium was established as a commercial marine park in the mid-20th century and has operated continuously since its opening, evolving its exhibits and animal-care facilities over time. It has been a notable local attraction through multiple decades of operation.
The facility sits on Virginia Key, east of central Miami and accessible via the Rickenbacker Causeway, with views across Biscayne Bay toward downtown Miami.
- Location: Located on Virginia Key, immediately off the Rickenbacker Causeway and close to downtown Miami, making it easy to reach from central Miami.
- Opening year: Opened in 1955 and has operated since as a public marine park and aquarium offering animal presentations and exhibits.
How to Get to Miami Seaquarium #
The Seaquarium is located on Virginia Key, just off the Rickenbacker Causeway. From downtown Miami, drive southeast along Rickenbacker Causeway (State Road A1A) about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. There is limited on-site parking; public transit options include Metrobus routes that serve nearby areas-check local schedules.
Tips for Visiting Miami Seaquarium #
- Plan to arrive at opening to see daytime shows with fewer crowds and better photo angles
- Check the animal welfare and conservation programs section on the park's website before visiting; certain exhibits and shows are seasonal
- Use the Rickenbacker Causeway pedestrian/bike path for sunrise views of downtown Miami before the park opens
Best Time to Visit Miami Seaquarium #
Best visited in winter or spring when South Florida's heat and humidity are milder.