Get Out This Summer and Support National Zoo & Aquarium Month Here on the Suncoast

June is the month set aside annually to celebrate Zoos and Aquariums, which play a huge part in the conservation and research of animal species. This month helps encourage visitors to their locale zoos and aquarium facilities to learn about the amazing animals we share this planet with. These fun excursions can be educational as well as entertaining for adults and children alike. We are so fortunate here on the Suncoast to have a litany of amazing options to choose from in aquariums and zoos to support.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium – The aquarium rescues and releases the animals back into the wild when they can, but some of the animals have special conditions that require them to remain at the aquarium under care, and visitors are able to spend time with those animals.

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium – Mote is a research facility focused on helping our oceans heal and return to being the sustainable habitats for marine life that they are meant to be.

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens – The Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is a conservation zoo that emphasizes natural animal behavior rather than just lounging behind the glass. 

Peace River Wildlife Center – The Mission of the Peace River Wildlife Center is to contribute to the survival of native Florida wildlife through rescue, rehabilitation, and education.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens, Sarasota – A family-owned and operated attraction in Sarasota, the Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a small 10-acre tropical oasis that has been delighting its visitors since 1939. Designed to captivate visitors of all ages, here you’ll find interactive animal shows and over 200 animals throughout the property, including snakes, lizards, and alligators. 

The Florida Aquarium – Located in Tampa, Florida, the aquarium is involved in many conservation projects and has a wide range of animal habitats to showcase wildlife from all across the state.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park – Home to more than 1,300 animals, ZooTampa at Lowry Park is an expansive park spanning 60 acres. At the zoo, you can see an array of exotic animals, from manatees to tigers, monkeys, and rhinos to African elephants, koalas, and orangutans.

How many of these wonderful zoos and aquariums have you been able to visit before? If you are looking for a great education and fun outing this summer, join in supporting National Zoo and Aquarium Month by frequenting one of these on our list. From special exhibits and educational opportunities to summer camps, we do have a ton of amazing options to help support wildlife right here on the Suncoast.

Happy National Zoo and Aquarium Month, Suncoast!

Feature Photo Courtesy of Deposit Photos