Exploring Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Are you ready to dive into a world of wonder and excitement? Look no further than Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, where every moment is filled with unforgettable experiences! Prepare to be amazed as we take you on a thrilling journey through this extraordinary destination. From jaw-dropping dolphin shows to up-close encounters with magnificent marine creatures, get ready for a day like no other. So buckle up and join us as we discover the magic that awaits at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park! Located in Destin-Fort Walton beach on Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, The Gulfarium is the perfect day trip fir some family fun or celebrate a special event while on vacation.
Introduction to Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is a world-class aquarium and marine park located in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. As one of the largest and most popular tourist attractions in the area. Gulfarium offers a wide variety of interactive and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Trust me when I say that when you choose to visit you will have one of the most memorable experiences of your trip. From spectacular shows to incredible animal encounters, there is something for everyone in your group.
Founded in 1955, Gulfarium was one of the first marine parks in the United States. Today, it is home to over 10,000 animals, representing more than 500 species from all over the world. In addition to its expansive animal collection, Gulfarium also features a number of unique exhibits and attractions, including a dolphin interaction program, a penguin encounter, and an otter exhibit. One of the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. center sea turtle rescue. The sea turtle rehabilitation program rescues injured and sick turtles and nurses them back to help. This however give visitors a special interaction with sea turtles that someone like myself may never have had and one of the clever ways that the Gulfarium continues to educate people on coastal conservation. We were able to ask questions to the
Gulfarium aquarist about some of the sea turtles currently at the Although every effort is made to release the turtle back to the ocean, occasionally a sea turtle is deemed non-releasable due to medical or physical limitations. These turtles are given a permanent home and full-time care at the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center
My personal recommendations for a splash-tastic day at Gulfarium;
Animal Encounters;
If you're looking for an up-close and personal encounter with some of the most amazing animals on the planet. Animal Encounters are available for an additional fee on top of the admission prices. You can choose from harbor seals, bottlenose dolphin, african black-footed penguin, and sting rays. Advanced reservations are required for the animal encounters. This is the perfect way to get active participation in the animal exhibits. We did the penguin encounter because anyone who knows me know I LOVE PENGUINS. During the penguin encounter you can get a personal up-close encounter with an african penguin. Don't worry about taking your camera because they have a photographer that will capture all the special moments. We were able to feed the penguins and also able to touch and learn about the penguins. The Penguin exhibit is another must-see attraction at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. This exhibit houses a colony of African penguins that visitors can watch as they swim, play, and feed. If you have a one special animal you want to meet, the animal encounters are a great way to get up close and personal with your favorite marine animal. One of the most popular animal encounters at Gulfarium is the Dolphin Encounter. This program allows guests to interact with bottlenose dolphins in a shallow water area. Guests will learn about dolphin behavior and communication, and even have a chance to give them a little rubdown!
Exhibits;
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is home to a variety of unique aquariums and exhibits. From the Oceanarium, which houses bottlenose dolphins that you can get an up close view of, to the Penguin exhibit, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to check out the trainer chats. Every half hour almost, a trainer is at one of the exhibits and giving educational talks about that specific animal. From what they eat to the in's and out's of taking care of the animal, this is a dynamic encounter with exotic birds, california sea lions, and marine animals. For something a little more hands-on, check out the Stingray Bay Touch Pool. Here, guests can dip their hands into the water to pet stingrays as they swim by. It's a unique experience that you don't want to miss. The dolphin show is another exhibit that you need to make sure you do not miss. These lively spirit mammals gracefully leap out of the water, showcasing their breathtaking acrobatic skills. With flips, spins, and somersaults that defy gravity, they seem like true masters of aquatic ballet. But it's not just about agility; these intelligent marine mammals demonstrate their playful side too!
There are also plenty of opportunities to see animals in their natural habitat at Gulfarium. The park has several exhibits featuring all sorts of marine life, from penguins to sharks. Be sure to check out all the exhibits during your visit!
Dining Options at the Gulfarium
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park also offers a dining options that are sure to please every member of your family. Dive-In Eatery is a casual counter-service eatery where you can grab some sandwhiches, snacks, and sweets.
Special Events & Programs
Looking for a unique educational experience? Check out our Homeschool Days! These days are designed specifically for homeschool families and include curriculum-based programming and animal encounters. Homeschool Days are offered periodically throughout the year and reservations are required.
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park also offers birthday party packages, private rentals, and group discounts. They can accommodate groups of all sizes and interests! Are you looking for a unique way to propose? Gulfarium even has special packages for that.
Exploring the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park was an unforgettable experience. From interacting with the dolphins to watching a charming sea lion show, there were plenty of opportunities for fun and learning. We also had the chance to learn about various marine species, from seahorses to sharks, while exploring this amazing aquatic wonderland. If you're looking for an adventure that offers something different each time you visit, then look no further than Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park!
During certain time frames you can paint with a dolphin or penguin, have breakfast with a penguin in the living sea exhibit.
Gulfarium's mission is to educate and entertain guests while promoting conservation of the world's aquatic treasures. The park achieves this through its innovative programming, educational exhibits, dedicated staff, and commitment to providing guests with exceptional experiences that inspire lifelong learning and appreciation for the natural world
