The Tide Pool Exhibit at The Florida Aquarium Ranks 5th Best New Attraction in the Country

January 13, 2026

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The Florida Aquarium’s newest exhibit, The Tide Pool, has earned national recognition, placing 5th in the country in USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards for Best New Attraction—highlighting both the Aquarium and the Tampa Bay region as a premier destination for immersive, world-class attractions. Selected by a panel of travel experts and voted on by readers nationwide, the Top 5 finish cements The Tide Pool’s status as one of the most innovative and engaging new attractions in the United States.

The Tide Pool was one of only two new attractions in Florida nominated this year, making its Top 5 ranking a significant achievement not only for The Florida Aquarium, but for the entire Tampa Bay region.

“This Top 5 national ranking is an incredible honor and a direct reflection of our unwavering commitment to providing world-class experiences that integrate ground-breaking exhibit design with animal wellbeing and guest expectations,” said Roger Germann, President and CEO of The Florida Aquarium. “The Tide Pool sets a new standard for animal exhibit and creates a meaningful, hands-on connection with ocean life. Seeing it recognized on a national stage reinforces our shared purpose to inspire conservation through unforgettable experiences.”

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

About The Tide Pool Exhibit
Opened on August 1, 2025, The Tide Pool 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 is home to more than 250 marine invertebrates representing 22 species, including vibrant anemones, striking sea stars, squat lobsters, and painted greenling fish.

Kept at a cool 50 degrees to mirror Pacific Northwest waters, the exhibit features lifelike rockwork, an advanced wave-motion system, immersive soundscapes, and a custom 70-foot UV-painted mural that transitions from sunrise to starlight. Built in six segments, The Tide Pool offers a hands-on experience designed to spark curiosity and foster a deeper appreciation for ocean conservation.

A Nationally Recognized Destination
The Top 5 ranking adds to a growing list of national accolades for The Florida Aquarium, which has been named one of USA TODAY’s Top 10 Best Aquariums seven times, including a #8 ranking in 2025—the only Florida aquarium to make the list.

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. Future additions include puffins in 2027, along with California sea lions and an expanded African penguin habitat in 2028.

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