The Florida Aquarium Nominated Again as One of the Best Aquariums in the Country

April 15, 2025

Share Story

Tampa, FL (April 15, 2024) – The Florida Aquarium is once again in the running for national recognition as one of the top aquariums in the country, following its nomination in USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards. With the community’s support, the Aquarium has the chance to once again secure a spot in the prestigious Top 10—shining a spotlight on both the Aquarium and the entire Tampa Bay region.

Voting is now open and runs through Monday, May 12 at 11:59 a.m. EDT. Supporters can vote once per day to help The Florida Aquarium climb the national rankings.

To vote, visit: https://10best.usatoday.com/qr/47524/.

>> CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BROADCAST-QUALITY

VIDEO AND PHOTOS OF THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM <<

If selected, this would mark the seventh time—and fifth consecutive year—The Florida Aquarium has earned a Top 10 spot among the nation’s best, thanks to the unwavering support of the Tampa Bay community and visitors from across the country. The Aquarium took the #8 position the past two years (2023 & 2024).

A panel of travel experts research aquariums across the country to select 20 of the best, and the top ten winners are determined by the public’s vote.

Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, The Florida Aquarium welcomes more than one million guests each year. With nearly 20,000 aquatic and terrestrial animals, guests can enjoy immersive exhibits featuring sharks, sea turtles, otters, stingrays, and more.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, the Aquarium is currently undergoing a $45 million expansion—the largest in its history. Recent highlights include the addition of MORPH’D, featuring animals that have adapted over time to survive, plus, the highly anticipated exhibit featuring animals from the rugged coastline later this summer and exciting exhibits on the horizon such as California sea lions, puffins, and an expanded African penguin habitat.