The Florida Aquarium Returns Iconic Exhibits to TPA Ahead of Holiday Travel
December 23, 2025
Share Story
As one of the top attractions in Tampa Bay, The Florida Aquarium has returned its iconic aquatic exhibits to both the Red and Blue Baggage Claim areas just in time for the busy holiday travel season.
The exhibits were removed in summer 2024 to protect the fish during nearby construction. With work in the Red and Blue Baggage Claim areas now complete, The Florida Aquarium’s animal care team has safely returned the fish to their longtime homes, restoring colorful and calming welcomes for travelers arriving in Tampa.
***CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BROADCAST-QUALITY
VIDEO & PHOTOS***
Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium
Since 1998, The Florida Aquarium has maintained 2,000-gallon aquatic exhibits at TPA’s Red and Blue Baggage Claim areas. Each habitat features several species of fish, including blue striped grunts, porkfish, sharp nose puffers, barred hamlets, royal gramma, a French angelfish, and several tangs, to the airport.
“The return of both exhibits restores a familiar and relaxing experience for travelers coming through Tampa,” said Tim Binder, Senior Vice President of Animal Care & Health at The Florida Aquarium. “We’re grateful for our partnership with Tampa International Airport, as these exhibits reflect our shared commitment to exceptional animal care, conservation, and creating meaningful moments for our community and visitors.”
As a leading Tampa Bay attraction since 1995, The Florida Aquarium is proud to welcome millions of visitors each year—many of whom begin their journey the moment they arrive at TPA. As holiday travelers pass through TPA, the Red and Blue Baggage Claim aquariums once again offer a vibrant, uniquely Florida welcome. For more information about The Florida Aquarium, click here.
The Latest from The Florida Aquarium
-
July 3, 2026
The Florida Aquarium Offers a Cool, Dry Destination for the Fourth of July Weekend
TAMPA, FL – Rain may change outdoor Fourth of July plans across Tampa Bay, but families can still celebrate Independence Day indoors at The Florida Aquarium, where the Sea to Shining Sea celebration continues through Sunday with patriotic entertainment, animal encounters, and the debut of two new ambassador skunks. New video from Friday’s festivities shows…
Read More -
July 1, 2026
Meet Ginger and Juniper: The Florida Aquarium’s New Ambassador Skunks Debut During All-American Weekend
TAMPA, FL – Just in time for Independence Day weekend, The Florida Aquarium is introducing its newest animal ambassadors: Ginger and Juniper, two curious striped skunk sisters making their debut during the Aquarium’s “Sea to Shining Sea” All-American Weekend celebration July 3–5. These sisters bring their skunk smarts and playful personalities to the Aquarium’s animal…
Read More -
June 27, 2026
The Florida Aquarium Returns Rehabilitated Green Sea Turtle to the Gulf
ANNA MARIA ISLAND, FL – A juvenile green sea turtle named Purple returned to the Gulf on Friday after months of rehabilitation at The Florida Aquarium following a cold-stunning event. **CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD VIDEO, SOUND, AND PHOTOS OF PURPLE** Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium Purple was transferred to The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center…
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.