Accessibility
Open. Accessible. Inclusive.
The Florida Aquarium is committed to providing an engaging and immersive experience that is open, accessible and inclusive to each of our guests, including those with visual, hearing, physical or sensory-processing needs. We are proud to offer a variety of services to our guests to help make their visit extraordinary, regardless of their ability.
Guests with Limited Mobility
Beginning with the main entrance, all public access doors are equipped with automatic door push plates. The campus facility has wheelchair accessibility to all habitats and exhibits and elevator access to all upper levels.
The Aquarium’s drop-off area is located at 701 Channelside Drive at the circle. To reach the Aquarium parking lot from the drop-off location make a right turn onto Channelside Drive. Designated accessible parking is available on a first-come, first-serve basis in the City of Tampa parking lot located a short distance from the Aquarium entrance.
Rental Rates
Wheelchairs, scooters and strollers are available to rent daily. Limited quantities are available and are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Please see Guest Services upon arrival for assistance.
| Rental Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Wheelchairs | $8.00 |
| Scooters | $15.00 |
| Single Strollers | $6.00 |
| Double Strollers | $8.00 |
Guests with Sensory Differences
The Florida Aquarium has partnered with the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at USF (C.A.R.D) to provide services that create the best experience possible for individuals with sensory differences.
We currently offer complimentary general admission to an interpreter accompanying an individual with a sensory difference.
For more information about what to expect during your Aquarium visit, please click the link below.
Day of Discovery Events
A Day of Discovery provides an Aquarium experience specifically tailored to individuals with sensory differences and their families. Days of Discovery are hosted by The Florida Aquarium in partnership with the Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (C.A.R.D.) at the University of South Florida.
To address the needs of our diverse audiences, Day of Discovery has limited capacity and is reserved for families and children with sensory differences and/or accessibility challenges. Special effects, lights, and music will be adapted for those with sensory differences.
Service Animals
Service animals are always welcome at The Florida Aquarium. Under the ADA, service animals are dogs trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities. Please note that they must be harnessed and under control at all times. For the well-being of our animal residents, emotional support animals and pets are not considered service animals and are not allowed inside.
In some cases, additional restrictions may apply due to strict animal care guidelines for the animals in our care.
Safe Place
Through a partnership with Hillsborough County Children’s Services, The Florida Aquarium is a certified designated Safe Place. Safe Place is a community initiative that provides access to immediate help and supportive resources for youth in need throughout the county.
Kids and teens ages 10-17 in crisis can also text SAFE with their current location (address, city, state) to 4HELP (44357) to receive details on the closest Safe Place site and phone number to Children’s Services.
Contact Us
If you have other questions or would like information about additional accommodations, please click the link below or call us at (813) 273-4000.