The Tide Pool Exhibit at The Florida Aquarium Nominated as One of the Best New Attractions in the Country

November 24, 2025

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The Florida Aquarium is once again in the running for national recognition, this time as one of the top new attractions in country, following its nomination in USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards. With the community’s support, the Aquarium has the chance to secure a spot in the prestigious Top 10—shining a spotlight on its newest exhibit, The Tide Pool, on the Aquarium itself, and on the entire Tampa Bay region.

Voting begins on Monday, November 24th at 12 PM and runs through Monday, December 22nd at 11:59am EST. Supporters can vote once per day to help The Florida Aquarium climb the national rankings.

To vote, visit: https://10best.usatoday.com/qr/55189/.

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VIDEO AND PHOTOS OF THE TIDE POOL
Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium

About The Tide Pool Exhibit
The Tide Pool opened on August 1, 2025, and is one of the only cold-water touch habitats on Florida’s west coast—an immersive 60-foot, 4,000-gallon exhibit that transports guests to the rugged shores of the Pacific Northwest. The habitat features more than 250 marine invertebrates representing 22 species, including vibrant anemones, striking sea stars, squat lobsters, and painted greenling fishes.

Kept at a cool 50 degrees to mimic Pacific Northwest waters, the exhibit combines lifelike rockwork, an advanced wave-motion system, dynamic soundscapes, and a custom 70-foot UV-paint mural that transitions from sunrise to starlight. Built in six segments, The Tide Pool invites guests to connect with these unique cold-water species through a hands-on experience designed to spark curiosity and deepen appreciation for ocean conservation.

A Nationally Recognized Destination
This nomination adds to a history of accolades for The Florida Aquarium, which has been named one of USA TODAY’S Top 10 Best Aquariums in the country seven times, including #8 in 2025—the only Florida aquarium to make the list this year.

The Tide Pool is the second phase of the Aquarium’s multi-year, $45 million expansion, following the opening of the MORPH’D gallery in 2023. Upcoming additions include puffins in 2027, as well as California sea lions and an expanded African penguin habitat in 2028.

To learn more about The Florida Aquarium and plan a trip to experience The Tide Pool, visit flaquarium.org.