Located on Virginia Key in Biscayne Bay near downtown Miami, the 38-acre Miami Seaquarium stood as one of the oldest continuously operating oceanariums in the United States. Founded in 1955 by Fred D. Coppock and Captain W.B. Gray, this historic Florida destination originally welcomed over 500,000 visitors annually to explore marine life.
Throughout its 70-year history, you could discover a wide variety of animals, including fish, sharks, sea turtles, birds, reptiles, and marine mammals. Pop culture enthusiasts might recognize the facility as the filming location for eighty-eight episodes of the 1960s television show Flipper and two related feature films. Additionally, the park operated the Miami Seaquarium Spacerail—the first hanging monorail in the country—from 1963 to 1991, alongside daily animal presentations, group programs, and overnight camps. Famous residents over the decades included orcas Hugo and Lolita, as well as dolphins connected to Hollywood history.
Following a series of regulatory inspections, ownership changes, and animal welfare concerns, the Miami Seaquarium officially closed its doors permanently on October 12, 2025. The site is slated for redevelopment into a marina and a modern aquarium without marine mammals, marking the end of a long, controversial chapter in Miami's attraction history.
What to see at Miami Seaquarium
- Historical 38-acre oceanarium site located on Virginia Key in Biscayne Bay
- Filming location for 88 episodes of the 1960s TV show Flipper and two movies
- Housed a diverse collection of fish, sharks, sea turtles, birds, and reptiles
- Home of the Miami Seaquarium Spacerail, America's first hanging monorail, from 1963 to 1991
- Permanently closed in October 2025 to make way for a new marina and non-mammal aquarium
Visiting tips
Please note that the Miami Seaquarium permanently closed on October 12, 2025, so check local Miami travel resources for updates on future site developments.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Miami Seaquarium is easy to reach on Miami’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Miami travel guide.
See the full Miami travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.