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

April 13, 2026

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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 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 (Monday, April 13 at noon EDT) and runs through Monday, May 11 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/awards/florida-aquarium-tampa-florida/.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BROADCAST-QUALITY VIDEO AND PHOTOS OF THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM
Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium has consistently 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 three years (2023, 2024, 2025) and was the only Florida aquarium to make the list last year.

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, The Florida Aquarium has helped shape Tampa Bay into a premier global destination since opening in 1995. With nearly 20,000 aquatic and terrestrial animals, guests can enjoy immersive exhibits featuring sharks, sea turtles, otters, stingrays, and more.

The Florida Aquarium continues to evolve, highlighted by the opening of The Tide Pool exhibit last summer as part of its multi-year expansion—an immersive experience that was ranked #5 Best New Attraction by USA TODAY this year. Looking ahead, the Aquarium’s expansion will bring even more to explore, including puffins in 2027, followed by California sea lions and an expanded African penguin habitat in 2028, further enhancing its shared purpose to connect guests with marine life in meaningful ways.