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Sarasota, Florida

Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA)

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Photo: The entrance to Mote Science Education Aquarium, a modern building with sweeping lines in front of a bright blue sky

Today's Research for Tomorrow's Oceans

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Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) is a world-class, 146,000-square-foot facility dedicated to marine science, education, and immersive public experiences at Nathan Benderson Park, a nexus site for Sarasota and Manatee counties. This rebirth of Mote Aquarium is transforming Mote’s ability to provide informal science education and enhance ocean literacy for much larger and more diverse populations, including every K-12 student in our community.

Visitor info & tickets

Learn more & support Mote SEA

225 University Town Center Drive
Sarasota, FL 34243

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9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. daily

(941) 388-6683

What's here?

A giant Pacific octopus, a large red octopus against a blue background

Aquarium galleries

Dive into a world beneath the surface in our captivating exhibit galleries. Each gallery is a window into the wonders of aquatic life—from the depths of the ocean to the vibrant ecosystems of rivers, reefs and coastal habitats.

Tables and chairs set up in Quarterdeck Room

Venue rentals

Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Mote Science Education Aquarium, our extraordinary event spaces—boasting panoramic terrace views and enchanting aquatic vistas—create a truly magical atmosphere for weddings, corporate gatherings, and celebrations, all elevated by the exquisite catering of Deep Blue Hospitality.

Guests enjoy Mote's Virtual Reality Experience

Experiences

Every ocean explorer needs to take a break now and then. Check out these refreshing stops on your journey through Mote SEA!

Student examining samples through a microscope

Immersive learning

Guests will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in marine research, essentially becoming a scientist for the day. Mote’s unique and longstanding history of scientific excellence, and effective translation and transference of science for public benefit, will flourish and shine at our new Mote SEA.

Looking for our main Lab? Mote Marine Laboratory continues to advance marine science at our primary research campus on City Island, Sarasota.

We thank our Mote SEA supporters, including:

A sea star with a bright pink underside in the Indo-Pacific Gallery at Mote Science Education Aquarium

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