If you're planning a trip to Florida's Gulf Coast with children, a visit to the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Fort Walton Beach should be at the top of your list. Only an hour and fifteen minutes from Pensacola, the Gulfarium offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages, combining education, entertainment, and a recreation!
The Gulfarium is home to a diverse array of marine animals, including dolphins, sea lions, turtles, penguins, alligators, birds, and more. One of the highlights of any visit is the chance to watch these incredible creatures up close in their naturalistic habitats. The park's mission is not only to entertain but also to educate visitors about the importance of marine conservation. In fact, the Gulfarium helps to rehabilitate local marine animals including sea turtles.
Animal Encounters
For those looking to get even closer to the action, the Gulfarium offers a range of animal encounters. Choose from a variety of animal encounters including turtles, stingrays, penguins, gators, seals, and dolphins. These unique experiences provide an opportunity to create lasting memories while learning about the fascinating behaviors and habitats of these marine animals. You can even become a VIP trainer for the day!
Shows, Demonstrations and Interactive Exhibits
Throughout the day, the Gulfarium hosts a variety of engaging shows and demonstrations. The dolphin and sea lion shows are favorites, showcasing the intelligence and agility of these remarkable animals. These performances are not only entertaining but also educational, highlighting the importance of conservation and the role these animals play in our ecosystem. In recent years, the Gulfarium has created a new area for the dolphins and a manatee exhibit is going in the new
In addition to the live shows and animal encounters, the Gulfarium features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to dive deeper into the world of marine life. The touch tanks, for example, offer a hands-on experience with starfish, sea urchins, and other fascinating creatures.
Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or on your own, the Gulfarium provides a fun and enriching experience for everyone. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is located in Fort Walton Beach on Hwy 98 and is waterfront along the Gulf of Mexico! Be sure to check their website for information on showtimes, ticket prices, and special events.
Looking for more fun things to do in the Pensacola area? Check out our other blogs 50 family friendly activities in Pensacola and fun summer activities in Pensacola.