The Florida Aquarium Reflects on a Transformative 2024 and Looks Ahead to Continued Growth in the New Year

December 31, 2024

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TAMPA, FL (December 31, 2024) — As 2024 comes to a close, it has been an unforgettable year for The Florida Aquarium filled with many milestones: celebrating achievements in conservation, education, and guest engagement. As a leading research and conservation-focused organization, this year’s successes reinforce the Aquarium’s commitment to marine wildlife, environmental stewardship, and exceptional visitor experiences, while setting the stage for continued growth in the year ahead.

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Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium

From launching new experiences and innovative opportunities to successfully weathering two hurricanes, these accomplishments would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the Aquarium’s dedicated staff, volunteers, and community.

In 2024, The Florida Aquarium:

• Welcomed one million guests for the second year in a row, showcasing the Aquarium’s growth impact.
• Opened the new Coral Conservation and Research Center in Apollo Beach.
• Launched YuleTides, a brand-new coastal holiday tradition, which runs through January 5, 2025.
• Introduced iconic new species, including the Māori wrasse.
• Rehabilitated and released more than 30 sea turtles back to their ocean homes.
• Removed 5,000+ pounds of trash from the local environment, safeguarding marine habitats.
• Temporarily relocated nine penguins, 4,000+ corals, seven cownose stingrays, a sea turtle and more during Hurricane Milton.

Looking Ahead to 2025
The Florida Aquarium will commemorate its 30-year anniversary in 2025 with exciting developments for guests. Among the highlights is a redesigned second floor mezzanine, featuring an expansive tide pool touch experience. Construction began in December and is expected to be completed in summer 2025. (PHOTO) It is the second phase of the Aquarium’s multi-year, $45 million expansion project that kicked off in 2023 with the opening of the interactive MORPH’D gallery, featuring animals that have adapted over time to survive. Future phases include new exhibits for puffins, California sea lions, and African penguins. It’s the largest expansion in the Aquarium’s 30-year history.

As The Florida Aquarium turns its focus to 2025, it remains committed to advancing its shared purpose and inspiring the next generation of conservationists.