Nationally ranked as one of the "Top 10 Aquariums in the Country" by ForbesTravelor.com and TripAdvisor.com, The Florida Aquarium is home to more than 20,000 aquatic plants and marine animals from around the world!

See river otters, alligators, stingrays and sharks in natural exhibits! If that isn’t close enough, guests can immerse themselves in interactive dive programs like “Swim with the Fishes” or “Dive with the Sharks,” where coming face to face with a 250-pound Goliath Grouper or Green Sea turtle is common place. Here guests can actually become a part of the exhibit in an up-close and personal experience underwater.

Didn’t bring a bathing suit? How about one of our Behind the Scenes Programs like “Penguins: Backstage Pass” or "daily Shark and Stingray Feedings?" The African Black-footed penguins don’t hang out behind acrylic either, see them face-to-beak in the ‘no borders, no barriers’ Penguin Promenade daily.

New to the aquarium, "Ocean Commotion" offers a uniquely immersive experience utilizing state of the art technology with virtual dolphins and whales, animation and multi-media presentations. Guests can even upload their own videos to become part of the exhibit!

After you’ve seen everything inside, continue the journey to the 2-acre outdoor, water adventure zone called “Explore A Shore.” But bring a bathing suit, because water canons are plentiful and children can explore a two-story, water-logged pirate ship. Parents, try relaxing with a beverage at the "Cantina Bar and Grill" while the kids play the day away.

 

Where are the dolphins, you ask? Come aboard the brand new, double-decker "Bay Spirit II" for a Wild Dolphin Ecotour and see these amazing animals in their natural environment. Tampa Bay is home to more than 500 bottle nose dolphin and there is an excellent chance of seeing them from one of our daily Ecotours.

 

The Holiday Inn & Suites near Busch Gardens-USF is an all suite property located within one mile of Busch Gardens, Adventure Island and University of South Florida.  Offering spacious two-room suites, outdoor heated pool & hot tub, exercise room, business center and complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel, the Holiday Inn & Suites is the perfect location for your next trip to Tampa.  Our Courtyard Cafe is nestled in our beautifully landscaped courtyard area serving breakfast and dinner with room service available.  Our full-service Tiki Bar also located in the courtyard serves daily drink specials.  Thinking of planning a meeting or special event? The Holiday Inn & Suites has you covered with 2250 square feet of meeting space and on-site catering available.  Call today for more information!