The Florida Aquarium Celebrates 30 Years and its Legendary Animal Residents
May 1, 2025
Share Story
TAMPA, FL (May 1, 2025) – They’ve been here since flip phones were cutting-edge, Toy Story hit theaters, and Tampa’s skyline was just starting to grow. Now, three decades later, a special crew of longtime animals are still captivating guests at The Florida Aquarium.
As the Aquarium celebrates 30 years of marine conservation leadership, engaging education initiatives, and immersive exhibits, it’s shining a spotlight on eight amazing animals that have called the Aquarium home since it opened its doors in 1995.
Meet the legends: a green moray eel (Scar), five box turtles (Monica, Ross, Joey, Chandler, Phoebe), a southern stingray (Shelly), and a Florida red-bellied turtle. These aquatic ambassadors have inspired millions of guests and are living proof of the Aquarium’s long-standing commitment to world-class animal care.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BROADCAST-QUALITY
VIDEO AND PHOTOS OF THE ANIMALS
THAT HAVE BEEN WITH THE AQUARIUM 30 YEARS
Celebrate with $30 Weekday Tickets + Cereal for Summer
To thank the Tampa Bay community for 30 incredible years, The Florida Aquarium is offering $30 admission tickets, Monday through Friday in May (excluding Memorial Day). Tickets are available here. Also, throughout May the Aquarium is offering 50% off on up to four (4) general admission tickets (per group) when guests drop off cereal boxes to help their community as part of Feeding Tampa Bay’s Cereal for Summer initiative.
Since its grand opening on March 31, 1995, The Florida Aquarium has grown into a premier destination and major economic engine—now generating an estimated $275 million annually to the region. Additionally, throughout its 30-year history the Aquarium has welcomed more than 20 million guests who enjoyed unique experiences, including exhibits, events, and excursions.
A Future of Firsts
Looking ahead, the Aquarium is undergoing a $45 million expansion that will bring even more awe-inspiring animal encounters to Tampa Bay:
- This summer: A new second-floor exhibit featuring animals from the rugged coastline.
- In 2026: The arrival of playful puffins presented by the Vinik Family Foundation, featuring a kelp forest, variety of fish, and expansive viewing windows.
- In 2027: The debut of the California sea lions exhibit—a first for Florida’s west coast.
- Plus: Plans are in the works to expand the African penguin habitat presented by The Mosaic Company.
To learn more about the Aquarium’s 30th anniversary celebrations, visit flaquarium.org.
The Latest from The Florida Aquarium
-
September 4, 2026
The Florida Aquarium Joins Statewide Effort to Create the Next Generation of Florida’s Coral Reef
Scientists Produce 61,000 Coral Larvae and 101 Unique Genetic Crosses to Help Build More Resilient Reefs KEY LARGO, FL – Bringing years of expertise in breeding and raising corals, four coral experts from The Florida Aquarium joined 11 other leading scientific and conservation organizations in what may be one of the largest collaborative coral conservation…
Read More -
August 18, 2026
Bring Your Favorite Plushie to The Florida Aquarium for the “Cutest Check-Up in Town”
Tampa, FL – Teddy bears, stuffed sharks, and plushies of all shapes and sizes are all invited to The Florida Aquarium for the Cuddle Clinic, a playful, hands-on event that combines imagination with learning. Known as the “Cutest Check-Up in Town”, families can bring their favorite plush toy to the Aquarium for a comprehensive “check-up”…
Read More -
August 13, 2026
The Florida Aquarium Celebrates 813 Day with Animal Enrichment, Special Deals, and Community Conservation Fundraiser
Eight African penguins exploring the Shark Reef. One double yellow-headed parrot soaring. Three playful North American river otters spinning for treats. Together, they’re helping The Florida Aquarium kick off Tampa’s favorite hometown holiday—813 Day—with animal enrichment inspired by the city’s iconic area code
Read More
Stay Up to Date
Want to know what’s happening below the surface? Sign up to receive our email newsletter, “The Current”, and dive into the latest news, events, and exhibit updates happening here at the Aquarium.