TAMPA, Fla. — The Florida Aquarium is celebrating 25 years in business with new projects and growth.
The aquarium opened its doors on March 31, 1995.
“The last 25 years have given us plenty of reasons to celebrate," said Roger Germann, President and CEO of The Florida Aquarium. “Today we ask, ‘What’s Next?’ The investment we are making in our Aquarium is an investment in Tampa Bay as a cultural attraction, an economic driver, a conservation leader, a pillar of the community, and a fun place to visit."
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"We are focused on the triple bottom line as we grow into the next 25 years. We invite the entire Tampa Bay community – from St Petersburg to Clearwater and from Plant City to Tampa – to join us on this thrilling journey and enjoy and support our world-class Aquarium," Germann said. "Together, we will create another 25 years of lifetime memories, spark a love of science and nature, and protect and restore our one and only blue planet we call home.”
The aquarium has several projects planned, including:
The CIBC Aquatic Lounge – Opening Feb 27, 2020
The aquatic lounge gallery will have several state-of-the-art exhibits to showcase new animals. It will be located adjacent to the aquarium's event space and will be available as a reception gathering location for events.
Washed Ashore – Art to Save the Sea – Opening Spring 2020
For the first time, this world-renowned traveling art exhibit will be in Florida. It features sculptures made entirely of plastic debris collected from beaches.
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Wetlands Trail Exhibit with Enhancement – Opening Summer 2020
A new hands-on experience that will provide guests with an change to touch animals native to Florida's wetlands.
Bays & Beaches Gallery Improvements – Opening Fall 2020
The long-standing galley will be modernized and will receive a new name: Shorelines.
TECO Rooftop Pavilion & Solar Exhibit – Opening Fall 2020
More than 1,100 panels will cover the aquarium's two largest habitats
Coral Complex Additions: Coral Arks 3-7 – November 2020/Fall 2021
The aquarium will be getting five new greenhouses to their coral conservation facilities, which are located in the Florida Conservation & Technology Center campus in Apollo Beach.
Community Butterfly Garden– March 2021
The temporary garden will be in front of the building for the public to enjoy for free. "It’s our way of saying thank you to an amazing community who has done so much for us throughout the years," the aquarium said in a press release.
For more on the upcoming projects and special events planned for the anniversary celebration click here.
