The Florida Gulf Coast, renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, has just welcomed another world-class attraction. The grand opening of the Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) at Nathan Benderson Park is a landmark event, not just for Sarasota, but for all the surrounding communities from St. Pete and Tampa down to Longboat and Siesta Key.

This new aquarium is a testament to the continuous growth and enrichment of the Gulf Coast lifestyle, offering an incredible new destination for residents and visitors alike.

Plan Your Visit: The Essentials

• Location: 12 acres within Sarasota's Nathan Benderson Park.
• Facility: A stunning $132 million, 110,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art building.
• Tickets & Hours: For the most current information on ticketing, hours of operation, and special events, please visit the official Mote SEA visitor information page.

An Immersive Journey into the Ocean's Wonders

The Mote SEA is designed to inspire awe in visitors of all ages. Your adventure begins with a three-story escalator ride to the Florida Waters gallery, where you'll come face-to-face with playful otters and beloved local manatees.

Don't miss these other incredible experiences:

• The Gulf of Mexico Shark Habitat: Gaze up in wonder as sharks and other marine life swim overhead in a massive, two-story, 400,000-gallon tank.
• Penguin Paradise: Get closer than ever to charming penguins, featuring a unique crawl-through viewing window that puts you right inside the exhibit.
• Hands-On Encounters: Gently touch a cownose ray or a sea star in the interactive touch pools.
• Virtual Reality & More: The aquarium also features a thrilling virtual reality experience. You can find details on this and other highlights on the main Mote SEA visitor information page.

A Hub for Education and Discovery

Beyond the spectacular exhibits, Mote SEA is a center for learning, featuring three state-of-the-art STEM teaching labs. It’s a cornerstone of Mote's "Oceans for All" initiative, providing invaluable educational programs that enrich our communities and inspire the next generation.

The arrival of Mote SEA is a wonderful addition for residents and a compelling attraction for visitors, enhancing the vibrant lifestyle that makes the Florida Gulf Coast so special. At EMERALDeememe, we understand that buying a home is an investment in a lifestyle. Attractions like this enrich our communities and are a key part of what makes this beautiful region a world-class place to live.

A Legacy of Discovery: The Mote Marine Laboratory Story

To truly appreciate Mote SEA, you have to understand the world-renowned institution behind it.

• Pioneering History: Mote was founded in 1955 by the legendary Dr. Eugenie Clark, the pioneering marine biologist famously known as the "Shark Lady." Her passion for discovery laid the foundation for Mote's global impact.
• Conservation in Action: Mote is on the front lines of marine conservation. Scientists are actively planting tens of thousands of corals to restore Florida's Coral Reef, and the Stranding Investigations Program is dedicated to marine animal rescue.
• Report a Stranded Animal: If you see a sick, injured, or deceased sea turtle, manatee, dolphin, or whale in Sarasota or Manatee counties, call the 24-hour hotline: 888-345-2335. Do not attempt to assist the animal yourself. For other Florida counties, call the FWC hotline at 888-404-3922.

Education and Outreach: Beyond the Aquarium Walls

Mote's mission of "Oceans for All" is woven into every aspect of its operations.

• Next-Generation Science: The new aquarium features three state-of-the-art STEM Teaching Labs for K-12 students and Workforce Training Labs to cultivate future marine science professionals.
• Community Hubs: Mote's educational reach extends across the coast, with a Marine Science Education & Outreach Center on the Anna Maria City Pier and exhibits at the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.
• The Next Chapter: With the public aquarium now at Mote SEA, the former aquarium on City Island is being transformed into a marine science and technology innovation park, furthering Mote's research capabilities.

Become a Mote Member: The Best Way to Experience Mote SEA

For residents and frequent visitors, a Mote Membership is the most cost-effective way to enjoy the aquarium. In fact, a membership often pays for itself in just two visits. It's the perfect way to support Mote's vital research and conservation missions while enjoying incredible benefits.

Key Membership Benefits Include:

• Unlimited Free Admission: Visit Mote SEA as often as you like for a full year.
• Exclusive Access: Be the first to see new exhibits and get invited to members-only events.
• Discounts: Receive valuable discounts on educational programs, summer camps, and special ticketed events.
• Reciprocal Program: Enjoy free or discounted admission to over 100 zoos and aquariums nationwide, including 50% off at ZooTampa, The Florida Aquarium, and Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

Membership Levels:

Mote offers a variety of membership tiers to fit every need, from Individual ($100/year) to packages for a Party of Four ($195/year) and larger groups.

To see all the options and choose the best fit for you, visit the official Mote Membership page.

The arrival of Mote SEA enhances the vibrant lifestyle that makes the Florida Gulf Coast so special. At EMERALD Realty Brokerage, we understand that attractions like this enrich our communities and are a key part of what makes this beautiful region a world-class place to live.

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