Learn about Clearwater Marine Aquarium Events in Clearwater Florida. Home to Winter the dolphin of the movie Dolphin Tale.

Inspired by the 2011 movie, Dolphin Tale, we ventured across Florida for our very own adventure with Winter the dolphin. Winter was rescued by the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the hospital now continues to save the lives of many sea-life species. The aquarium is now Winter’s forever home and provides endless educational possibilities.

What I loved most about the Clearwater Marine Aquarium was the message they portray throughout the venue. They’re all about the Three R’s: Rescue, Rehab, Release. Their goal is to preserve the quality of life for all creatures that reside at the aquarium. Dolphins, sea turtles, sharks and more belong in the ocean and the marine hospital strives to take care of every rescue to ensure the best possible life. When one of their beloved amniotes can not be returned to sea, they usually have a wonderful home at the aquarium.

The recently renovated Visitor’s Center will take your breath away! With five times the space, they offer a safe experience without crowds by limiting the number of tickets by the hour and offering touch-less transactions. The new 1.5 million gallon tank for Winter and her friends offers nine different viewing windows where dolphins are thrilled to greet visitors face to face.

The moment my sons arrived at one of the oversized windows, they were greeted by Hope, another dolphin featured in the movie, Dolphin Tales and Winter’s best dolphin friend.

The aquarium offers so much more than dolphins! We took a private tour with the very knowledgeable Ms. Tracey and learned more about sea turtles than we have ever imagined. We viewed the behind the scenes specifics of how every piece of food is carefully made for the sea life. We also got to see a nurse shark, otters, stingray, pelicans and more. Each new hallway offered a completely different, exciting experience.

I’m the type of parent who tries to instill educational aspects in every adventure and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium makes learning fun! The kids asked countless questions about sea life or how they can protect the environment. They are looking forward to checking on Winter and her friends on the aquarium’s daily live cam.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium Events

What to Do

The dolphin and wildlife boat tour is a great way to take a break, see the coast and learn about wild dolphins that were released and still love to hang around.

Take a photo with Winter! And if you’ve watched the movie, you know her rescue is the reason why this hospital became so famous! Winter began her journey for a prosthetic tail and rehabilitation after being caught in a trap and having her tail severely damaged,

Visit the Rescue Deck and learn all about Rex and Rudolph, the center’s only rough toothed dolphins. Then watch them perform tricks with their trainers and ask the staff questions while overlooking the bay.

Where to Eat

As a parent of young children, I greatly enjoyed the Shark Bites Cafe located at the aquarium. The portions were big, the prices were reasonable and the seating area was clean and comfortable.

Where to Stay

Prior to our arrival at the Marine Aquarium, we checked in to the Winter the Dolphin’s Beach Club, Ascend Hotel Collection. A short drive away from the aquarium, we highly suggest this beach front hotel to unwind in Clearwater Beach, FL. The views, location and dedication to Winter made our weekend extra special!

Social Distancing

Lastly, with improved safety measures due to Covid-19, Clearwater Marine Aquarium allows for a relaxing, entertaining day under the sea!

Looking for more fun Florida travel trips?

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Learn about clearwater marine aquarium events