For marine enthusiasts and families seeking aquatic adventures, aquarium Jacksonville FL options are expanding. While the city anticipates the development of the Jacksonville Aquarium, there are existing attractions and services that offer engaging experiences with marine life.
Jacksonville Aquarium: A Vision for the Future
The Jacksonville Aquarium is a proposed world-class facility aimed at inspiring appreciation for marine life and promoting conservation. Although still in the planning stages, the aquarium promises immersive exhibits such as:
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Open Seas: Featuring expansive tanks housing sharks, rays, and other large sea creatures.
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Ocean Reefs: Showcasing live coral reefs from the Florida Reef Tract and the Great Barrier Reef.
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Coastal Adventures: Interactive displays of coastal ecosystems, including tide pools and salt marshes.
These exhibits aim to educate visitors about marine biodiversity and the importance of preserving oceanic environments.
Nearby Aquatic Experiences
While awaiting the Jacksonville Aquarium’s completion, visitors can explore several nearby attractions:
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St. Augustine Aquarium & Snorkel Adventure: Located just south of Jacksonville, this open-air facility offers interactive experiences like shark feeding, invertebrate touch tanks, and snorkeling adventures amidst Florida’s marine species.
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Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens: Beyond terrestrial animals, the zoo features aquatic exhibits, including a stingray touch tank, providing insights into various marine creatures.
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The Florida Aquarium in Tampa: A few hours’ drive from Jacksonville, this renowned facility offers extensive marine exhibits, conservation programs, and interactive experiences suitable for all ages.
Aquarium Services in Jacksonville
For residents interested in creating and maintaining personal aquariums, Jacksonville offers professional services:
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Ocean Floor Aquariums: Serving the community since 1995, they provide design, installation, and maintenance services for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums, catering to residential and commercial clients.
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Reeflections Aquarium: A local aquarium store offering a variety of fish, corals, and aquarium supplies, along with expert advice for hobbyists.
FAQ
1. When will the Jacksonville Aquarium open?
The Jacksonville Aquarium is currently in the planning and development phase, with no official opening date announced yet.
2. Are there any aquariums currently operating in Jacksonville?
While Jacksonville doesn’t have a large-scale public aquarium at present, attractions like the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens offer aquatic exhibits.
3. What marine experiences are available near Jacksonville?
The St. Augustine Aquarium, located nearby, provides interactive marine experiences, including snorkeling and shark feeding.
4. Can I visit the Florida Aquarium from Jacksonville?
Yes, the Florida Aquarium in Tampa is accessible from Jacksonville, offering extensive marine exhibits and educational programs.
5. Where can I find aquarium maintenance services in Jacksonville?
Companies like Ocean Floor Aquariums and Reeflections Aquarium offer professional aquarium design, installation, and maintenance services in Jacksonville.
